How Will I Receive the Results of My Child's Brain Imaging Scan?

Brain imaging scans play a crucial role in diagnosing and monitoring childhood brain disorders. However, the process of receiving the scan results can be anxiety-provoking for parents. This article aims to provide a comprehensive guide on how parents can expect to receive their child's brain imaging scan results.

Methods Of Receiving Results

There are several methods by which parents can receive their child's brain imaging scan results:

In-person Consultation with the Ordering Physician:

• Scheduling the Appointment: Contact the physician's office to schedule an appointment for the consultation.
• Preparing for the Consultation: Gather relevant information such as the child's medical history, reason for the scan, and any symptoms the child is experiencing. Write down questions in advance.
• What to Expect During the Consultation: The physician will review the scan results, explain the findings, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions.

Telephone Consultation with the Ordering Physician:

• When Telephone Consultations Are Appropriate: Telephone consultations may be appropriate for follow-up discussions or when an in-person consultation is not feasible.
• Preparing for the Telephone Consultation: Gather relevant information and write down questions in advance.
• What to Expect During the Telephone Consultation: The physician will review the scan results, explain the findings, discuss treatment options, and answer any questions.

Secure Online Portal:

• Setting Up Access to the Online Portal: The physician's office will provide instructions on how to set up access to the secure online portal.
• Navigating the Online Portal: The online portal will provide access to the scan results and allow communication with the physician.
• Accessing and Reviewing the Scan Results: Parents can access and review the scan results through the online portal.
• Contacting the Physician with Questions: Parents can send messages to the physician through the online portal with any questions or concerns.

Timeline For Receiving Results

The timeline for receiving the scan results can vary depending on several factors, including the type of scan, the complexity of the findings, and the availability of the physician.

Typical Timeline for Receiving Results:

• In-person Consultation: Within 1-2 weeks of the scan.
• Telephone Consultation: Within 1 week of the scan.
• Secure Online Portal: Within 24-48 hours of the scan.

Preparing For The Consultation Or Telephone Call

To ensure a productive consultation or telephone call, parents should:

• Gather Relevant Information: Compile the child's medical history, reason for the scan, and any symptoms the child is experiencing.
• Write Down Questions in Advance: Prepare a list of questions to ask the physician regarding the scan results and treatment options.
• Bring a Support Person: Consider bringing a family member or friend to the consultation or telephone call for support and to help take notes.

Understanding The Scan Results

Common types of brain imaging scans include MRI, CT scan, and PET scan.

The scan results can be interpreted as follows:

• Normal Findings: The scan shows no abnormalities.
• Abnormal Findings: The scan reveals abnormalities that may indicate a medical condition.
• Uncertain Findings: The scan findings are unclear and require further evaluation.

Parents should ask questions to clarify the findings and understand their implications.

Next Steps

Based on the scan results, the physician will discuss treatment options and recommend follow-up appointments.

Treatment Options:

• Medication: Prescribing medications to manage symptoms or address the underlying condition.
• Surgery: Recommending surgical intervention if necessary.
• Therapy: Referring the child to therapy, such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, or speech therapy.

Follow-up Appointments:

• Monitoring the Child's Progress: Scheduling regular follow-up appointments to monitor the child's progress and adjust treatment as needed.
• Adjusting Treatment as Needed: Modifying the treatment plan based on the child's response to treatment and changes in their condition.

Open communication between parents and the physician is crucial throughout the process of receiving and understanding the brain imaging scan results. Parents are encouraged to ask questions, seek clarification, and actively participate in decision-making regarding their child's care. Following the physician's recommendations and adhering to the treatment plan are essential for ensuring the best possible outcome for the child.