The Psychological, Physiological, and Behavioral Responses of Patients to Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: MRI is generally well-tolerated although it may induce physiological stress responses and anxiety in patients.

Purpose: Investigate the psychological, physiological, and behavioral responses of patients to MRI, their evolution over time, and influencing factors.

Study Type: Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Preparing patients according to their individual coping style improves patient experience of magnetic resonance imaging.

MRI-related anxiety is present in 30% of patients and may evoke motion artifacts/failed scans, which impair clinical efficiency. It is unclear how patient anxiety can be countered most effectively. Habitual preferences for coping with stressful situations by focusing or distracting one's attention thereof (coping style) may play a key role in this context.