MRI of the Fetal Central Nervous System and Body

MRI is being increasingly used to assess for fetal abnormalities. Although significant progress in the field of fetal MRI has occurred during the past 20 years, continued technical advances will likely contribute to significant growth of the field. Moreover, with continued hardware and software improvements, additional MRI sequences will likely become available. Prenatal MRI complements ultrasound because of larger field-of-view, superior soft tissue contrast, easier and more precise volumetric measurement, and greater accuracy in the demonstration of intracranial and spinal abnormalities. While ultrasound remains the primary modality for fetal imaging, these advantages of MRI make it a valuable adjunct to fetal surgery. Because fetal MRI involves many disciplines, the future of fetal MR will best be achieved through collaborative efforts.