Fetal MRI

Who may need a Fetal MRI examination?

• Ultrasound is certainly the initial imaging modality to assess fetal well-being. There are however, certain circumstances when the visualization of fetus is not optimal. Fetal MRI provides the desired information about the fetal structures in these cases.
• If findings in fetal Ultrasound scan are suspicious or abnormal, MRI is a useful option for further evaluation of fetus. MRI findings may help in confirmation of the abnormality or may provide finer details about the fetal structural anomaly.
• MRI is a particularly useful modality for finer evaluation of the fetal brain. MRI is useful to detect additional lesions which may help in deciding the prognosis and facilitate decision-making (continuation or termination of pregnancy).

When Fetal MRI should be done?

• Fetal MRI is usually advised following a level-2 ultrasound (anomaly scan), at around 20-22 weeks. At times, the scan may be deferred till 26-28 weeks, depending upon the clinical indication.
• Fetal MRI may also be advised in the third trimester, following abnormal ultrasound findings or as a follow-up scan.

How fetal MRI is done?

The mother needs to lay supine or in left lateral position on the MR scan table which then moves inside the MRI machine. The machine and procedure is same as any other MRI scan.

How to prepare for the Fetal MRI scan?

• Fetal MRI should always be properly scheduled. It is better to ask for an afternoon appointment, as fetal movements are usually less during this time.
• There is no need for the Mother to remain fasting for the scan. The mother should have her lunch at least 1-2 hours prior to the time of appointment.
• No injections or oral medicines will be given during or prior to scan.
• Mother need not hold urine for the scan. It is advisable for the mother to void 15-20 min prior to the scan.
• Mobile phones, coins, keys, belts, wrist-watches, jewelry or any form of metal should be left outside the scanning room.
• It is advisable to walk slowly for 10-15 min prior to the MRI scan.
• In accordance with the PC-PNDT act, Fetal MRI will not be used to determine the sex of the baby in any way. The mothers are therefore expected to fill up the relevant forms and duly sign them, prior to the scan.

What to expect during fetal MRI?

• Few people may experience extreme claustrophobia due to the closed structure of the MR machine and may not cooperate for the scan. Mild to moderate degree of claustrophobia usually does not cause any problem. It is important to understand that MRI systems are absolutely safe and the scans are always monitored. A relative is also asked to sit in the scanning room, close to the patient for further reassurance.
• As with any MRI examination, the mother will hear a variety of sounds from the MRI machine, during the image acquisition. In case the patient experience any area of localized heating or any area of skin sensation or any kind of discomfort, the patient can raise an alarm with the help of hand switch.

Is fetal MRI safe?

Getting an MRI done in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters of pregnancy is absolutely safe and is approved by all apex medical societies.

Is fetal MRI accurate?

• MRI evaluation of fetus provides detailed information about the fetal structures with high accuracy. Complete assessment of fetal heart is however, not feasible with fetal MRI, for which echocardiography is the most accurate modality.
• The protocol for Fetal MRI is often tailored according to clinical indication, which is studied in detail. The rest of the structures are also simultaneously screened. Despite high accuracy, performance of Fetal MRI does depend on the extent of structural defect, fetal movements and the image quality.
• Apart from the fetal structures, the fetal environment including the placenta, amniotic fluid and the umbilical cord can be well evaluated with fetal MRI. Fetal MRI however, cannot diagnose functional disorders of the fetus.

Who cannot get fetal MRI done?

Mothers who had history of cardiac valve placement or any metallic device for fractures cannot undergo fetal MRI. It is therefore important for the patient to inform the concerned Fetal Medicine Specialist, Radiologist & MRI technician about any form of prior surgical procedure.

How to schedule an appointment for Fetal MRI?

The appointment for Fetal MRI can be scheduled at the reception or online

https://cityxrayclinic.com/Find-Book-Test.aspx

Or at the following phone number: 011 47252000

When to expect the reports of Fetal MRI?

All the Fetal MRI scans are duly monitored by the Radiologist. Soon after the scan is done, your Radiologist will talk to you and convey the provisional reports. The final detailed report does take time and may be ready either the same day or the next working day. You are free to discuss the report with your Radiologist and the Fetal Medicine Specialist.