Fetal MR Imaging

Ultrasonography is the primary prenatal screening modality used in the evaluation of the fetus and the maternal pelvis. However, fetal MR imaging plays a complementary role to prenatal ultrasound in the evaluation of the fetus with suspected abnormalities. MR imaging's role includes confirming or excluding possible lesions, defining their full extent, aiding in their characterization, and demonstrating other associated abnormalities. As newer techniques such as diffusion imaging, MR spectroscopy, and functional studies are used more widely, it is hoped that additional information will be made available by this modality to physicians evaluating and taking care of fetuses.