Second trimester fetal magnetic resonance imaging improves diagnosis of non-central nervous system anomalies

• Objectives. To evaluate the additional information of second trimester magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) compared to ultrasound in fetuses with identified or suspected non-CNS anomalies and to study the clinical impact of the MRI information on pregnancy management. Design. Prospective study during 2003-2007. The fetal MRI examination was planned to be performed within three days after the ultrasound. Setting. Uppsala University hospital. Material and methods. Sixty-three women, where the second trimester ultrasound identified or raised suspicion of fetal anomalies were included. Ultrasound was compared to MRI in relation to the final diagnosis, which was based on the assessment of all available data including post-partum clinical follow-up and autopsy results. Main outcome measures. Evaluation of the additional information gained from MRI and the consequences it had on pregnancy management. Results. The mean interval between ultrasound and MRI was 2.6 days (range 0-15). In 42 (67%) cases MRI was performed within three days. All MRI examinations were assessable. In 43 (68%) fetuses MRI provided no additional information, in 17 (27%) MRI added information without changing the management and in three (5%) MRI provided additional information which changed the management. All these three cases had oligohydramnios. In all six cases of diaphragmatic hernia MRI provided additional information. Conclusions. Fetal MRI of non-CNS anomalies in the second trimester seems to be a valuable adjunct to ultrasound diagnosis of non-CNS anomalies, especially in cases of oligohydramnios and diaphragmatic hernia.

Nyckelord

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging

non-central nervous system anomalies

second trimester

ultrasound

pregnancy management

antenatal diagnosis

MEDICINE

MEDICIN

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