Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanning for research: the experiences of healthy volunteers and patients with remitted depressive illness
| Pages | 23-30 |
| Date | 03 November 2009 |
| DOI | https://doi.org/10.1108/13619322200900018 |
| Published date | 03 November 2009 |
| Author | Victoria Tischler,Emma Bronjewski,Katherine O'Connor,Tim Calton |
| Subject Matter | Health & social care |
Mental Health Review Journal Volume 14 Issue 3 September 2009 © Pier Professional Ltd 23
RESEARCH
Victoria Tischler
Lecturer, University of Nottingham, UK
Emma Bronjewski
Medical Student, University of Nottingham, UK
Katherine O’Connor
Medical Student, University of Nottingham, UK
Tim Calton
Fellow, Institute of Mental Health, Nottingham, UK
Magnetic resonance imaging
(MRI) scanning for research: the
experiences of healthy volunteers
and patients with remitted
depressive illness
Abstract
We report the findings from a study exploring the experiences of individuals undergoing MRI scanning for
research. Semi-structured interviews took place before and after scanning with 17 participants; 12 were
healthy volunteers and five were patients with a diagnosis of remitted depression. Themes of apprehension
and curiosity prior to scanning were common in both groups. Patients were often confused about the
procedure. Negative feelings were an issue at the outset, characterised by shock related to the physical
surroundings, after which positive feelings, for example relaxation, were often experienced, and in the case
of patients, learning more about their brain. Written information about imaging was deemed satisfactory;
however the ability to ‘experience’ aspects of scanning beforehand was suggested. Scanning may be viewed
as a process beginning prior to the procedure itself and involving positive and negative emotions. Increased
information, reassurance and a more interactive intervention to reduce anxiety may be beneficial and may
improve individuals’ experience of this widely used procedure.
Key words
Magnetic resonance imaging scanning (MRI), qualitative, support, research participants, experiences
Introduction
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a widely
used diagnostic tool in the health service. It
is also increasingly used for research purposes
in the mental health field, for example, to
investigate structural brain abnormalities
and to assess cognitive function. A range of
literature suggests that MRI can be problematic
psychologically (Brennan et al, 1988; Shellock,
2005). Respiration or swallowing may be
increased in apprehensive patients (Grey et al,
2000) and motion artefacts arising from such
increased movement result in images of no
diagnostic value (Harris et al, 2004). Anxiety may
also be attributed to the physical conditions of
the scanner and, to a lesser extent, fear of what
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