Claustrophobic patients undergoing an MRI examination do not always require sedation to obtain diagnostic-quality MRI images. There are many alternative options that can be implemented to assist a claustrophobic patient in the case of an MRI exam, explains MRI. Sedation is just one of these options mammogram screening in Denville.

Sedation may be considered if other options prove ineffective, Department of Radiology & Biomedical Imaging. Options include audio or visual distraction, systematic desensitization, medical hypnosis, aromatherapy, or having a friend or family member present. In the event that a patient cannot be sedated and none of the above methods sufficiently calm the patient, it may be necessary to seek other methods of examination, which may be significantly more invasive or less accurate.

What is conscious sedation?

It is a pharmacologically induced state that eliminates anxiety, psychomotor agitation, emotional imbalance . The level of sedation weakens the person’s ability to respond to tactile and verbal stimuli, while maintaining breath control.

The objectives are to significantly reduce the inconvenience for the user and make the diagnostic investigation more tolerable.

How is conscious sedation achieved in the patient?

Conscious sedation is achieved by administering a benzodiazepine intravenously (midazolam) or orally or sublingually (delorazepam).

The user must refrain from driving vehicles in the 12 hours following the sedation and will be able to leave the clinic only if accompanied.

Do I need sedation for an MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans are a common diagnostic tool used in modern medicine. Although an MRI is usually not painful, some people with severe claustrophobia or conditions that do not allow them to remain still may require or be prescribed a sedative to be taken before the scan. Sedation for an MRI usually isn’t complete, but instead puts the patient in a mildly sedated state.

An MRI works by aligning the body’s water molecules to create a signal that can be transformed into a three-dimensional image of the body. The process requires near total stillness while in the car, as moving around will distort the image. Sedation for an MRI scan can help people with chronic pain relax during the scan, reducing their need to move or move.