Virtual Reality: Redefining the MRI Experience

One of the biggest challenges in imaging pediatric patients is motion. Even small movements during imaging can reduce diagnostic quality and increase the need for retakes. This problem is especially pronounced in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), where scans are lengthy and noisy, making it difficult for children to remain still. Although MRI is a non-ionizing imaging tool that produces high-quality images, for many children it can feel overwhelming and unfamiliar. In fact, failure rates in children under five can reach as high as 50%. These failed scans not only waste time and resources but also delay clinical decision-making. Even when scans are completed, motion artifacts can significantly degrade image quality and hinder accurate interpretation.

Traditionally, sedation has been used to minimize movement, but these approaches are resource-intensive and carry clinical risks. To address this, researchers have explored innovative solutions, including the use of virtual reality (VR) to reduce anxiety and improve cooperation during MRI procedures.

A Sudden Spark of Inspiration

It all began when Professor Jo Hajnal received a pair of VR goggles as a Christmas gift. When he tried them on, he was struck by how the immersive experience made him lose awareness of his surroundings. This inspired him and his colleagues to explore whether similar technology could help distract children undergoing MRI scans, minimizing awareness of the scanner environment.

Making MRI Interactive

The result was the creation of a custom-built, MR-compatible VR system. The setup includes: 3D-printed VR headset, MR-compatible cameras for eye tracking, and MR-compatible projector for displaying VR content. All components connect to a standard PC in the control room, enabling real-time control and monitoring.

Patients interact with the system using only their eyes, selecting content such as films or games. At the same time, they can stay connected to caregivers outside the scanner via a live video link. The VR headset is completely light-tight, preventing children from seeing the intimidating scanner environment. Instead, the projector displays immersive 3D images that surround the user throughout the entire examination, transforming the MRI from a passive and isolating procedure into an engaging and interactive experience.

To enhance immersion, the research team incorporated real-life sensory feedback where visual scenes shift when the examination table moves and animated characters respond to scanner noises. This design helps patients feel engaged with the virtual world rather than distracted by the clinical environment.

Clinical Applications and Future Directions

So far, the system has been successfully tested on 23 children aged 2 to 13, who watched films or played simple games during scans using only eye-tracking controls. Feedback from participants was highly positive, showing promising potential for reducing motion and improving patient experience.

Researchers are now planning larger trials with more diverse patient groups. They also aim to develop age- and cognitively-appropriate VR content tailored to different clinical populations. By personalizing these immersive environments, VR has the potential to make MRI scans more tolerable, efficient, and effective for children, paving the way for a new era in imaging.

References

Healthcare in Europe. (2021). VR system to reduce MRI scan anxiety. Healthcare-In-Europe.com. https://healthcare-in-europe.com/en/news/vr-system-to-reduce-mri-scan-anxiety.html

King's College London. (2024). New eye tracking controlled VR system enhances MRI scans for young children. King’s College London. https://www.kcl.ac.uk/news/new-eye-tracking-controlled-vr-system-enhances-mri-scans-for-young-children

Qian, K., Arichi, T., Price, A., Dall’Orso, S., Eden, J., Noh, Y., Rhode, K., Burdet, E., Neil, M., Edwards, A., & Hajnal, J. (2021). An eye tracking based virtual reality system for use inside magnetic resonance imaging systems. Scientific Reports, 11(1). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-021-95634-y

The Society of Radiographers. (2024). Researchers develop “crucial” VR eye-tracking to enhance children’s MRI scans | SoR. SoR.org. https://www.sor.org/news/mri/researchers-develop-%E2%80%98crucial%E2%80%99-vr-eye-tracking-to-e