MRI of the fetal brain and spinal cord: Techniques and protocols

Abstract

Magnetic resonance imaging of the fetus is nowadays routinely used as a complimentary imaging method to ultra- sound for the detection of morphological changes of the brain and spine. The advent of fast sequences, which allow high sig- nal-to-noise, high-resolution datasets has facilitated standardized and reliable protocols, enabling fetal Magnetic resonance imaging to be acknowledged as a valuable adjunct in many antenatal clinics. This review covers technical requisites, sequence details, and provides a practical approach for routine diagnosis of fetal brain and spine.