IV Sedation for MRI Scan

An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging scan, is a non-invasive and painless procedure. It uses radio waves and a powerful magnetic field to capture detailed images of the body. However, some patients opt to be put to sleep for the duration of the procedure. If the whole scan would be painless, why do these patients need to have IV sedation for MRI?

Reasons why some patients request for IV sedation

Adult claustrophobia

We all have our phobias; some people are terrified at being in an enclosed space for an extended period. This phobia is known as claustrophobia. As with any of these irrational fears, claustrophobia can cause unnecessary discomfort and stress on the patient. To ensure that the procedure is “painless” and stress-free, these patients would benefit more from being put under during the MRI scan.

Anxiety

Anxiety over having an MRI scan can sometimes be alleviated by letting the patient listen to music, doing focused breathing techniques or having the patient’s eyes covered using a towel for the procedure. Sometimes, there would even be an option for an upright TV to be in place for the patient to watch. However, if the patient does not prefer these methods, IV sedation is always an option for them, to make sure that their anxiety does not get in the way of the MRI scan’s success.

Overall stress reduction

The real reason that people would choose to be sedated during MRI scans would not be for pain. At least not physical pain, but more for emotional pain and stress. It would also help the scans be more successful if the patient would lie perfectly still during the scan. If a patient were anxious about being in the machine, they would not be able to be still for the duration of the procedure. IV sedation can help both the patient feel less stress about the scan and it can also help the medical practitioners achieve more successful results.