Is anaesthesia good advice for an acute claustrophobic to undergo an MRI?

Question

This was told to me by a DR and radiologist after I couldn't handle two MRIs and freaked out. I think anaesthesia just as in pre-surgery is a bit too far. what do you think? is it good advice?

Answer 1

Since they've tried a few times, they're probably right. You need SOMETHING to keep you from being aware or upset about what's going on.

I don't know what you've tried, what would be effective, or what could be a hinderance for what they're trying to do, so naturally, talk to your doctor about any solutions mentioned on here.

Rather than being completely put under, you may want to talk to them about getting a dose of something like demerol. I had surgery several years ago, and I have some hazy memories from the time they gave me demerol to the time I actually got an iv. It relaxes you to a point to where ANYTHING is okay. (I'm afraid of iv's... I didn't put up a fuss at all)

When my son went in for surgery (he's little, but the concept still applies), he had what they called his "pink cocktail" about an hour before, while we were answering questions and signing him in and stuff. He sat in my lap and got very very very very drowsy. Basically, I'm just saying maybe you could talk to them about that. It's still anesthesia, technically, but it's more of a tranquilizer, and you can be awake and aware and able to ask/answer questions, but it will relax you so that you aren't bothered by the enclosed space.

If you are completely anti-drug about this, you can try meditation or other natural relaxation techniques, or even hypnosis. These aren't effective all the time, but it's something to try.

If you choose to try to self-medicate, PLEASE let your doctor know, first. The recommendation of another answerer to take a "double dose" of anything would probably NOT be okay with your doctor. Certain medications could possibly effect the MRI results in some cases, too.

I would suggest you ask around to find out if there is a place ANYWHERE around where you live (I'd be willing to drive the hour to get to the right place) that offers open MRI's. They're specifically for people who just can't handle those little enclosed spaces. Even if it's not typically covered by your insurance, talk to your doctor. See if you can get your insurance provider to see that it's more cost-efficient for them to pay for you to have an open MRI than it is to attempt and fail at two or more closed ones.

I assume that since you're having an MRI, there is an actual problem you're trying to get diagnosed or checked. If it were me or my loved ones, I would say the benefit of getting the test done could definately outweigh the risk (or misgivings) of using anaesthesia.

I hope everything goes well for you!

Answer 2

No, I don't think it's good advice. An anaesthesiologist needs to have easy access to you at all times in case you stop breathing. That's not possible in an MRI, even an "open" one.

Go back to your doctor and INSIST on being given a heavy dose of an anti-anxiety drug, such as Klonopin or Ativan. Also, insist on an "open" MRI. It's only marginally better, but nothing like a closed one.

Make sure that you're perfectly calm before you agree to get on the table. If you feel woozy, you're ready. Ask for a blindfold, and put it on before they slide you in, it helps A LOT. So do earplugs, but they won't drown out the noise completely, an MRI is too loud.

Good luck, you'll get through it once you insist on being treated properly.

Happy Holidays!

Answer 3

Anaesthesia, no. But sedation, definitely.

This could limit the days and times for your appt, though. You will need to have this administered by an anaesthesiologist, after a discussion with that individual.

Depending upon the area of your body being images, you may be able to go into the machine feet first, which would obviate the need for meds.

I had one done less than a month ago.

Answer 4

They will give you a valium if you are claustrophobic. But if you are severely claustrophobic ask to go in an open MRI machine most towns have private radiology groups or hospitals that provide open MRI machines for people who are to claustrophobic or to large for a MRI machine. The doctor's office who is arranging the MRI should have asked you this if not call them and tell them of the claustrophobia and if it is really a concern they will schedule you an open one.

Answer 5

No.You have to shop around as a lot of "MRI"places now have totally open "MRI" machines that are nothing more than a donut shaped machine with a real big hole that is about a foot or two wide open at both ends.But if you can't deal with even that then they may give you a very mild sedative.

Answer 6

If you can't handle the confinement and the MRI is necessary as part of your treatment, anaesthesia sounds like a reasonable choice.

Answer 7

If you need the MRI, you need the MRI and should do what it takes to get it done.
It most likely would be some sort of sedative versus anesthesia.
Good luck!

Answer 8

you do not need any anesthesia for an mri. sleeping pills are not the answer either. you ahve to be fully awake for an mri. however with technology there is today....there are open mris where the machine is not closed in. the machine is totally open and it should not be a problem. ask your docor about it.

Answer 9

It really depends on your doctor, he knows best but after going through the same thing my doctor gave me two 10 milligram Valium and low and behold I relaxed so much I went to sleep and didn't know a thing until it was over. Maybe you can try this. Best of luck. PS. That was two hours before the perseiger.

Answer 10

depends on if MRI is absolutely necessary. If you must have it done and can't possibly go thru it, sober(lol), then I would say that you do not have an option.
I'm sure that they would not put you completely under, but depends on how bad you freaked out.