Cost analysis of nonsedated fast-spine magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients.

Cohort studyJournal of neurosurgery. Pediatrics· Aug 2026

Cost analysis of nonsedated fast-spine magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients.

Parker Dhillon, Noah L A Nawabi, John Hurst … Ramin Eskandari

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AnesthesiologyCohort studyQ2IF 2.0

Nonsedated fast-spine MRI cut pediatric spine scan table time by two-thirds.

Cost analysis of nonsedated fast-spine magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients.

Parker Dhillon … Ramin Eskandari

Journal of neurosurgery · Aug 2026 · Q2 in General Medicine

Background

This use of anesthesia introduces periprocedural risks and logistical barriers that can delay care and increase burden for families.

Purpose

This study evaluates the clinical feasibility and operational impact of nonsedated fsMRI compared with routine pediatric spine MRI, with secondary analysis of institutional cost.

Methods

Were stratified into younger (≤ 6 years) and older (≥ 7 years) cohorts.

n = 2358 pediatric spine MR images

Results

nonsedated scans took a third of the time, often sparing anesthesia

34.6minute

fsMRI

100.2minute

Routine MRI

More results

The time reduction was most pronounced in the younger cohort (105.9 ± 54.8 minutes vs 35.7 ± 12.7 minutes, p < 0.0001).

The mean direct institutional cost for fsMRI was $133.59 lower per scan ($284.12 vs $417.71), with a significantly higher collection rate (53.9% vs 47.4%, p = 0.0054).

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Conclusion · 1 of 2

Fast-spine MRI substantially reduces scan time, effectively removing the barrier of sedation for many young children.

Conclusion · 2 of 2

By serving as a rapid, nonsedated screening tool, this protocol offers a safer alternative to routine MRI that significantly expands appointment availability and improves access to care for all pediatric patients.

Cost analysis of nonsedated fast-spine magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients.

Cost analysis of nonsedated fast-spine magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients.

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