Can Neonatal Brain MRI be Performed during Active Cooling?

Am J Perinatol. 2018 Jul;35(9):837-839. doi: 10.1055/s-0037-1620270. Epub 2018 Jan 16.

Abstract

Objective: Due to logistical constraints, physicians traditionally delay diagnostic imaging for neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) until the neonate has completed all 72 hours of therapeutic hypothermia and rewarming. In some cases, neonates may require neuroimaging before 72 hours has passed.

Study design: We present a case in which an MRI was acquired during active hypothermia.

Results: Upon return to the NICU, Baby X's temperature probe read 33.6 degrees, indicating that hypothermia was likely maintained at the target temperature.

Conclusion: Active hypothermia is possible during MRI.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Brain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Hypothermia, Induced*
  • Hypoxia-Ischemia, Brain / diagnostic imaging*
  • Hypoxia-Ischemia, Brain / therapy*
  • Infant, Newborn
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging*
  • Prognosis
  • Temperature
  • Time Factors