Rapid MRI for Pediatric Patients: Indications, Protocols, and High-Yield Diagnoses for Emergency Radiologists

Rapid MRI protocols are increasingly used in pediatric emergency imaging, providing fast, high-quality images without ionizing radiation, intravenous contrast, or sedation. These focused exams, using limited, optimized sequences, maintain diagnostic accuracy and can enhance patient flow in emergency settings. It is essential for radiologists to be familiar with key MR imaging findings of both common and rare pediatric emergency conditions, such as appendicitis, ovarian torsion, osteomyelitis, and childhood stroke. This article reviews the clinical indications and protocols for various rapid MRI exams and includes a case-based review of high-yield diagnoses.