A prospective study of a method of anaesthetizing children for magnetic resonance imaging was carried out. The end-tidal carbon dioxide, respiratory rate and oxygen saturation of 23 children undergoing magnetic resonance imaging were monitored. The children underwent halothane anaesthesia breathing spontaneously via an endotracheal tube and a modified Bain breathing system.

The children were divided into two age groups. In all groups the end-tidal carbon dioxide and oxygen saturation values remained at or near normal for the duration of the scan. All children were recovered within 10 min and there were no post-anaesthetic problems. We suggest, that in the absence of respiratory problems or a rise in intracranial pressure, this is a safe and appropriate technique for magnetic resonance scanning in the child.