Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) ‘Feed and Wrap’

You have been sent an appointment for your child to have an MRI scan using the ‘feed and wrap’ technique which is an alternative to using sedation. As babies tend to fall asleep after a feed, we try to take advantage of this and scan while they are asleep.

The MRI scan uses a magnetic field rather than x-rays to produce detailed pictures of your child’s body. The MRI scanner is a hollow machine with a tube running horizontally through the middle.

Your appointment letter

When you receive your appointment letter, please ensure that the date and time is suitable. If you are unable to attend, please contact the MRI Department as soon as possible to rearrange your appointment.

The day of the examination

Please follow the instructions on your appointment letter. Please arrive in good time for your appointment.

Try to keep your baby awake prior to the scan so it is easier for them to fall asleep in the department. On arrival, you will be met by a Radiographer who will take you to a quiet room to explain the procedure and run through the MRI safety checks. We will then ask you to feed your baby to try and get them to fall asleep naturally. When your baby is asleep, we will transfer them to the MRI scanner.

Try to avoid baby clothes with poppers or zips for your appointment in order to avoid disturbing your baby and the need to undress them.

If you are using formula milk, please bring this with you.

Sometimes babies do not fall asleep at the appointment time. This may mean that we scan another patient while waiting. If you are unable to get your baby to sleep, or we are unable to carry out the scan, we will contact the referring doctor and they will review alternative options.

The scan

Your baby will be placed on the MRI scanning table. The radiographer will do their best to make them feel settled, secure and relaxed for the scan. We often use a blanket or sheet to swaddle your baby to try and keep them still, as movement will affect the images. You are welcome to stay in the scan room with your baby (subject to meeting the safety criteria).

We will also provide both you and your baby earplugs and headphones for protection from the noise of the scanner. Then the table will be positioned inside the scanner and the radiographer will return to the control room.

The radiographer who performs the scan will be able to see you at all times and can talk to you through an intercom. There is a buzzer to use if you need to alert staff during the scan.

When the scan is over, the table is moved back out from the scanner, all pieces of equipment, blankets etc are removed and you will be escorted back to the quiet room. You will then be able to collect your belongings and prepare yourselves to leave.

Is there any need for an injection?

Occasionally an injection of contrast agent may be required. This injection will highlight the pictures even more and may help the doctors with the diagnosis. If an injection is required, this will be discussed with you and a small cannula (thin plastic tube) inserted on the Kingfisher Day Unit before the scan, so that it does not disturb your baby during the scan.

How long does it take?

The MRI scans take approximately between 15 to 45 minutes. However you will be in department longer to prepare for the scan depending on how long it takes for your baby to settle.

When do I get the results?

The scan will be reported on by a diagnostic imaging specialist, eg a radiologist or remote paediatric radiologist. The report will be issued to your referring consultant who will inform you of the next steps in your care pathway. The availability of the report can vary depending on the type and complexity of the imaging examination.

Please note

If you are running late, please contact the MRI Department. If you are late for your scan, your appointment may be delayed or re-booked.

Please do not bring additional children with you, as we cannot take responsibility for them or provide crèche facilities.

The MRI Department also scans emergency patients from the wards. These patients will take priority and could delay your scan. The radiographer will inform you of any possible delays whilst you are in department.

Contact numbers

We hope that you have found this leaflet useful. If you have any questions or you are worried about anything, please contact the MRI Department on 01305 255397 (Monday – Friday 8.30am – 4.30pm).

Out of hours, if you require further advice, please contact your GP or Emergency Department.

You can also contact NHS 111 24 hours a day or visit www.111.nhs.uk

About this leaflet

Author: Kayleigh Romagnoli, Lead MRI Radiographer
Written: April 2020
Updated and approved: November 2024
Review date: November 2027
Edition: v2

If you have feedback regarding the accuracy of the information contained in this leaflet, or if you would like a list of references used to develop this leaflet, please email patientinformation.leaflets@dchft.nhs.uk