Learning objectives
Know the indications of cerebral foetal MRI.
Describe the sequences that we use in our center for the cerebral study of the fetus.
Make a standardized radiological report.
Background
The fetal MRI is a complementary imaging technique to the obstetric ultrasound with diagnostic doubts of gynecology.
It allows the visualization of the cerebral anatomy,
as well as the detection of morphological and signal anomalies.
It is necessary to perform a standardized radiological report that,
in addition to the anatomical and signal characteristics of the supra and infratentorial structures,
include a cranial biometric study.
Findings and procedure details
INDICATIONS OF THE FOETAL MRI
The strongest indications are the following:- Fetus: Abnormalities of the posterior fossa,
middle or midline cranial fossa,
ventricular space (ventriculomegaly,
ventricular cysts,
congenital infections,
alterations in cortical development,
myelomeningocele,
etc).
Maternal obesity,
multiple pregnancy,
oligohydramnios,
family history of genetic disorders,
coagulopathies,
extension study for anomalies that are usually associated,
etc.
ADVANTAGES AND LIMITATIONS:
Advantages:
-With multi-channel type receiving antennas we will obtain a high spatial resolution.
-Acceptable tissue characterization.
-Larger field of vision than ultrasound,
and in addition to seeing...
Conclusion
Cerebral foetal MRI is a complementary imaging technique that can confirm suspected obstetric diagnoses and detect abnormalities that can be missed on ultrasound.7
The radiologist must make a standardized report and work in conjunction with the obstetrics team,
as the results are crucial for management decisions and treatment of the diseases and abnormalities that fetuses may present.
References
- Normative biometry of the fetal brain using magnetic resonance imaging.
Brain Structure and Function,
2017,
Volume 222,
Number 5,
Page 2295.
Vanessa Kyriakopoulou,
Deniz Vatansever,
Alice Davidson.
- N Saleem,
Sahar.
(2013).
Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A Tool for a Better Understanding of Normal and Abnormal Brain Development.
Journal of Child Neurology.
28.10.1177 / 0883073813486296.
- Saleem SN.
Fetal MRI: An approach to practice: A review.
Journal of Advanced Research.
2014; 5 (5): 507-523.
doi: 10.1016 / j.jare.2013.06.001.
- Cerebral biometry in fetal...