Practical Stepwise Approach to Performing Neonatal Brain MR Imaging in the Research Setting

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Neuroscience
• Pediatrics

Background:

• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is vital for visualizing newborn infant brains in clinical and research settings.
• Infant movement presents a significant challenge, compromising MR image quality and hindering reliable assessment and analysis.
• High-quality imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and research findings in neonatal brain studies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a systematic, stepwise approach for reducing infant motion during neonatal MRI scans.
• To provide practical recommendations for infant preparation, immobilization, and safety during MRI acquisition.
• To enhance the success rate of obtaining high-quality, analyzable infant brain MRI data.

Main Methods:

• Implementing a systematic, stepwise protocol for neonatal MRI scanning.
• Utilizing the feed-and-bundle technique for effective infant immobilization.
• Adhering to specific safety precautions to minimize risks during the procedure.

Main Results:

• The systematic approach, including the feed-and-bundle technique, effectively reduces infant motion.
• This method ensures high-quality MR images suitable for reliable assessment and advanced analysis.
• A success rate of 91% was achieved in acquiring high-quality, analyzable infant brain MRI scans.

Conclusions:

• A systematic, stepwise approach is effective in minimizing motion artifacts in neonatal brain MRI.
• The recommended protocol, focusing on preparation and immobilization, leads to high-quality, analyzable images.
• This approach is valuable for both research and clinical applications in neonatal neuroimaging.