Using audio hypnosis to reduce anxiety in children during MRI scans
Effectiveness of an Audio-hypnosis Intervention on Pre-interventional Anxiety During an MRI Examination in Children and Adolescents: a Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if listening to audio hypnosis can help reduce anxiety in children aged 6 to 14 during MRI scans without sedation.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 6 Years to 14 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Witten/Herdecke Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Essen) |
| Trial ID | NCT06866457 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates whether listening to an audio hypnosis recording can alleviate anxiety in children and adolescents aged 6 to 14 who are undergoing MRI scans without sedation. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a hypnosis group, which will have access to the audio recording, or a control group that receives standard pre-MRI explanations from medical staff. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of the hypnosis in reducing anxiety levels, improving cooperation during the scan, and minimizing interruptions. A total of 100 participants will be enrolled at the Elisabeth Hospital Essen, with data collection occurring over a 24-month recruitment period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children and adolescents aged 6 to 14 who are scheduled for an MRI without anesthesia and can understand German.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairments, psychiatric disorders, or those taking sedative medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce anxiety in pediatric patients undergoing MRI scans, leading to smoother procedures and better outcomes.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of hypnosis in medical settings is established, this specific approach for reducing MRI-related anxiety in children is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age between 6 and 14 years * Planned MRI examination without anesthesia * Subjects should have a good understanding of the German language Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cognitive impairment or mental retardation * Severely limiting psychiatric disorders * Addictive disorders * Limited understanding of the German language * Taking sedative medication (e.g. lorazepam)
Where this trial is running
Essen
- Elisabeth Hospital — Essen, Germany (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Melanie Anheyer
- Email: m.anheyer@contilia.de
- Phone: 004920189786627
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.