Read how a functional MRI helps identify the parts of the brain where epilepsy starts.
Key points
A functional MRI tells your child's doctor which parts of your child's brain control movement and language so they can better plan your child's epilepsy surgery.
Before the scan, tell the team about any metal implants or piercings in your child to reduce any harm from the magnet in the MRI scanner.
During the scan, your child will do simple activities while they lie in the MRI scanner.
You may discuss the results of the fMRI with your child's doctor about four to six weeks after the scan.
Introduction
A functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scan takes about an hour. It is similar to a standard MRI except that your child will be asked to do simple activities such as listen to a story, play simple word games and tap their fingers or toes during the scan. While they do these activities, the machine will find the parts of the brain that handle important functions such as speech and movement.
About the test
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) scanAn fMRI scan uses the same machine as a regular MRI.
Why does my child need an fMRI scan?
An fMRI will tell the doctor which part of the brain is responsible for controlling movement or language so that the doctor has a better idea where these important areas are located when planning epilepsy surgery.
Risks of the test
Does the fMRI scan have any risks or side effects?
There are typically no risks or side effects from having an fMRI.
Preparing for the test
How do I prepare my child for an fMRI?
Explain what will happen during an fMRI in words your child understands.
Like an MRI scan, the fMRI uses a strong magnet, which may harm your child if they have certain metal implants. Before the scan, tell the MRI team about any metal implants inside your child, such as metal rods, screws, braces or clips, and if your child has any body piercings. Sharing this information is important for minimizing the risk of harm from the strong magnet in the MRI scanner.
Test
What happens when my child arrives for an fMRI?
An MRI team member will check if your child will be able to lie still comfortably during the fMRI scan.
Your child will be told about the activities they will do during the test and will have a chance to practise some of them.
Your child will empty their clothes pockets and remove any watches, purses, jewellery and makeup. They can store these in a locker during the scan.
Your child will change into a hospital gown and enter the MRI room.
fMRI scan of the brainThe coloured spots in the fMRI scan show brain activity.
What happens during an fMRI scan?
The technologist will place your child’s head in a head coil, which is like a helmet, and may also give your child special goggles. Your child may also wear earplugs or headphones to help reduce the loud knocking noise from the MRI machine.
When your child is ready, they will then lie on the narrow bed that moves into the tunnel. The technologist will talk to your child through a speaker from outside the room and guide them through the activities.
The technologist will also remind your child to keep very still during the fMRI. Even when they are asked to do a specific activity such as tapping their finger, they must keep the rest of their body and head very still.
May I stay with my child during the fMRI scan?
You may stay in the MRI room with your child if the technologist is sure that it is safe to do so, for example by asking about any metal implants or piercings.
After the test
What should I expect after an fMRI scan?
Once the scan is done, your child may get dressed and go home.
Follow-up care
When will I get the test results?
Your doctor will receive a report of the fMRI scan and discuss the results with you at a follow-up appointment, usually about four to six weeks after the scan.
