"What to Expect?" Toolkit
Having a PET or an MRI scan is a daunting experience for anyone. As brain imaging becomes more commonplace for people with Down syndrome, families may struggle with preparing their loved one for a scan visit. LuMind IDSC has developed a series of multi-media tools families can use to get ready for these important medical procedures.
The “What to Expect” video series is designed to help people with Down syndrome to experience medical and/or research procedures. These step-by-step videos provide an in-depth overview of the process with the goal of alleviating anxiety of the unknown and making the experience as smooth as possible.
View video: Preparing for a PET scan
View video: Preparing for an MRI scan
Download and Print Social Stories
Download/print social story: Preparing for My PET scan
Download/print social story: Preparing for My MRI scan
What can we expect at a PET scan visit?
A PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography) is an imaging test that is used to show the function of your tissues and organs. A radioactive drug called a “tracer” is injected in tiny doses into the arm, and then a large tube-shaped camera takes pictures of the tracer inside the body. The tracer allows doctors and researchers to see areas in your body that have both typical and atypical functions. PET scans are often used to discover the presence of amyloid plaque in the brain, which is a hallmark of Alzheimer’s disease.
* Please note that Samuel’s experience is meant to represent a “typical” visit, but each clinic’s policies and each diagnostic protocol may differ slightly from the one you see on the screen.*
What can we expect when going for MRI scans?
An MRI Scan (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an imaging test that uses a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of tissues, organs, and bones. An MRI machine is a large, tube-shaped magnet. When lying inside the MRI machine, the magnetic field inside the machine works to produce high-resolution images of your body. MRI machines are very loud, but the images they produce are very important because they help diagnose a variety of disorders and conditions.
* Please note that Samuel’s experience is meant to represent a “typical” visit, but each clinic’s policies and each diagnostic protocol may differ slightly from the one you see on the screen.*
Looking for more research-related information?
The future of Down syndrome research is NOW. Developments in the field are happening every day, and you are always welcome to learn more about Down syndrome research in action.
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