Fetal magnetic resonance imaging: a review

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: To describe advances in magnetic resonance technology and the current indications and advantages of magnetic resonance imaging that have led to increased utilization in fetal medicine. RECENT FINDINGS: The article covers the most common uses of magnetic resonance imaging in fetal medicine. The advantages of magnetic resonance imaging for the diagnosis of fetal malformations are described, in particular the advantages of magnetic resonance imaging in central nervous system malformations not optimally diagnosed by ultrasound are described. These cases include malformations of migration, malformations of development, such as agenesis of the corpus callosum, and destructive lesions. Noncentral nervous system lesions include chest abnormalities, abdominal wall defects, gastrointestinal and genitourinary abnormalities and fetal neoplasms. Abnormalities of placentation and other maternal factors affecting pregnancy are shown. SUMMARY: Recent studies have shown that magnetic resonance imaging can add significantly to the prenatal diagnosis and management of congenital abnormalities. In addition, placental abnormalities have been diagnosed with greater accuracy.