Trigeminal neuralgia: Imaging and the patient experience of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain: Findings from an on-line survey of patient experience of MRI imaging.

Background This is the first study to explore the experience of this group of patients and their experience of having an MRI brain scan. It is also unique in specifically focusing on MRI brain scan alone. This gives a new perspective on the nature of patient-centred service we should be delivering, not only to patients with this rare condition, but perhaps when scanning anyone with a pain condition – or indeed in personalizing an examination for any patient. Aims/Objectives To understand the patient’s lived experience of having an MRI brain scan, to understand what made a positive difference and what the patient would like or expect the radiographer to know about their condition. Methods Qualitative method utilized an online survey (Lime survey) with free text responses and some limited demographic data. Survey was advertised on closed social media group and on National charity website (Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK). 96 responses were received, with 50 free text responses to the open questions. These were analysed using thematic analysis. Results Five themes emerged, with a number of subthemes within each. These are that there are some good stories, there are some not so good experiences, that care and communication makes a difference, that Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) pain is more than just a headache and finally that we need to be involving our patients in their scan. In describing the experience of having an MRI brain scan it was striking that narratives seemed to be clear cut in terms of ‘good or bad’ , but an interesting key difference seemed to be the perceived ‘kindness’ of the staff. Conclusions A recommendation is given in terms of working with a TN patient and their pain triggers, this is for everyone’s benefit as this is also more likely to result in a timely scan with minimal blur artefacts if the patient’s pain is minimized.

Background
This is the first study to explore the experience of this group of patients and their experience of having an MRI brain scan. It is also unique in specifically focusing on MRI brain scan alone. This gives a new perspective on the nature of patient-centred service we should be delivering, not only to patients with this rare condition, but perhaps when scanning anyone with a pain condition – or indeed in personalizing an examination for any patient.

Aims/Objectives
To understand the patient’s lived experience of having an MRI brain scan, to understand what made a positive difference and what the patient would like or expect the radiographer to know about their condition.

Methods
Qualitative method utilized an online survey (Lime survey) with free text responses and some limited demographic data. Survey was advertised on closed social media group and on National charity website (Trigeminal Neuralgia Association UK). 96 responses were received, with 50 free text responses to the open questions. These were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results
Five themes emerged, with a number of subthemes within each. These are that there are some good stories, there are some not so good experiences, that care and communication makes a difference, that Trigeminal neuralgia (TN) pain is more than just a headache and finally that we need to be involving our patients in their scan. In describing the experience of having an MRI brain scan it was striking that narratives seemed to be clear cut in terms of ‘good or bad’ , but an interesting key difference seemed to be the perceived ‘kindness’ of the staff.

Conclusions
A recommendation is given in terms of working with a TN patient and their pain triggers, this is for everyone’s benefit as this is also more likely to result in a timely scan with minimal blur artefacts if the patient’s pain is minimized.