Effects of Virtual Reality MRI Preparedness

Effects of Virtual Reality MRI Preparedness

Magnetic resonance imaging is an important and increasingly prevalent imaging modality used in healthcare. Children often find the procedure anxiety provoking causing difficulty in staying still and providing quality images. The use of preparation techniques including play therapy and role play utilizing such tools as a fiberglass mock MRI have shown to reduce anxiety and facilitate better image quality. Modalities of preparation including Virtual Reality (VR) pose as an alternative to habituate children for a MRI procedure.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Child is between the ages of 8-9 years inclusive
• Child scheduled for a clinical MRI at CHLA.

Exclusion Criteria:

• Child is younger than 8 years or older than 9 years. These are the bottom end of age ranges that are frequently sedated.
• Children who have metal in their bodies that cannot participant in an MRI.
• Medical history that may affect brain development that may confound ability to complete an MRI without sedation.
• Children suffering from epilepsy or history of seizures who may react poorly to a virtual reality intervention.
• Child who has a history of MRI acquisition where habituation and preparedness may not be needed.
• Child with English as a second language due to restrictions of research team.
• Child with implantable medical devices or personal medical devices that may be affected by the study device's radio waves