New MiniTom Child-Friendly Imaging Simulator arrives at Gloucestershire Hospitals

The Siemens MiniTom simulator unit, funded by a generous donation from The Pied Piper Appeal through the Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, includes a learning simulator that helps children prepare for imaging procedures such as CT and MRI.

It features a miniature scanner with a movable table and tablet-based demonstrations, allowing children to understand and practise what will happen during their own scan. Children can even scan a soft toy, making the experience more familiar and less intimidating. Those who feel anxious about having an MRI can try out the smaller model first, helping them build confidence and potentially avoid the need for a general anaesthetic, which often involves longer waiting times.

Karen Long, MRI Superintendent Radiographer, said:

“When children arrive for scans, they’re often anxious and unsure about what to expect. This new equipment helps them feel in control and ready. It’s already making a real difference to how relaxed our younger patients are, which in turn supports us to get the best possible images without the need for sedation.”

The system includes story-based materials centred around Gerda the Brave Giraffe, a character developed by Siemens with input from parents, clinicians and child psychologists to support preparation at home and in hospital.

The simulator’s tablet also plays the sound made by an MRI scanner, helping children get used to the unfamiliar noises they may hear during the real scan.

By building understanding in advance, the approach helps reduce fear and keeps the examination process as smooth and stress-free as possible for patients, families and staff.

Richard Smith, Director at Cheltenham and Gloucester Hospitals Charity, said:
“Donations like this make so many projects possible across the hospitals – from improvements to the environment and patient experience to improved imaging technology funded through our Scanner Appeal – every gift makes a difference and is greatly appreciated.”

The Trust carries out thousands of radiological examinations each year, with MRI scans frequently used for children as they do not involve ionising radiation.

Thank you to everyone involved in this project. It reflects our commitment to patient-centred care and to making hospital visits less daunting for children.