Abbreviated Turbo Spin Echo T2- and FLAIR-weighted Sequences to Complement Multiplanar HASTE Images in “Quick MRI” Pediatric Brain Imaging at 3 Tesla: A child-tailored approach

The “Quick MRI” approach is rapidly gaining popularity in pediatric neuro imaging to reduce the need for sedation in several conditions including hydrocephalus monitoring, ventricular shunting follow-up, intracranial cysts, minor to moderate head trauma, headaches, and prior to spinal tap procedures.
HASTE T2-weighted sequences are currently the mainstay of “Quick MRI” neuro imaging protocols. To explore the full potential of new-generation 3T MR scanners we introduced an abbreviated version of the conventional TSE 2D T2 and FLAIR weighted sequence in uncooperative children and all patients under 6 years of age¹. These sequences are meant to be added to the usual HASTE T2-weighted based “Quick-MRI” protocol.
We are using a 3T MAGNETOM Vida (XQ gradients and syngo MR XA31 software version) and a 20-channel head/neck receiver coil.