Correction to: Melatonin as an alternative sedation method during magnetic resonance imaging in preschool children with musculoskeletal problems

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in preschool children is often challenging due to excessive motion artifacts. Sedation or general anesthesia (GA) are commonly used to prevent children from moving in the MRI scanner, with increased risk for cardiopulmonary complications and requirement for skilled personnel. Herein we investigated whether oral melatonin, a natural hormone implicated in circadian rhythm regulation, could be used as an alternative sedation method prior to the MRI in preschool children with musculoskeletal problems. Fifteen children with suspected juvenile idiopathic arthritis underwent a total of 16 MRI examinations following administration of 10 mg of oral melatonin; satisfactory images were obtained in all but one case, with no adverse events. Conclusion: The use of melatonin before the musculoskeletal MRI in preschool children is an effective, safe and inexpensive alternative to standard sedation and general anesthesia in preventing motion artifacts. What is known: • Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a well-recognized diagnostic method to visualize synovial inflammation and changes of cartilage and bone in juvenile idiopathic arthritis. • MRI examination requires sedation or general anesthesia to ensure immobility in children who are uncooperative. What is new: • Additional to previous published studies we were able to show that melatonin for sedation for an MRI of joints, even without sleep deprivation, in the studied population may provide an alternative in children without behavioral problems, in order to avoid sedation/GA.