Review of Diagnostic Yield of MRI Brain Results in Children Under Age 3 Years

Retrospective Review of Indications and Results of Brain MRI With Anesthesia/Sedation in Children Less Than Three Years of Age

The investigators aim to identify the frequency with which an elective brain MRI yields and etiologic diagnosis to explain its indication. The protocol includes children undergoing elective brain MRI with anesthesia prior to their third birthday.

On December 14, 2016 the FDA issued a warning regarding elective anesthetics in children under three years of age. While a single, short exposure to general anesthesia may not have negative effects on behavior or learning, repeated or prolonged anesthetics may affect brain development. To that end, minimizing exposure to elective general anesthetics if procedures are not clearly indicated in young children appeals to reason.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male or female aged 0-36 months who received anesthesia (volatile gas anesthesia) or IV sedation (propofol, dexmedetomidine, barbiturates, benzodiazepines, or other agents) for brain MRI

Exclusion Criteria:

• MRI without sedation, brain MRI plus additional MRI imaging, i.e. spine, heart, etc., sedated MRI by a member of other department besides Anesthesiology.