Possibilities of high-field magnetic resonance imaging (3 T) in fetal visualization using meta device

Abstract

Background. Fetal and extra fetal diagnostics is currently performed using 3 Tesla magnetic-resonance imaging scanners. Examination is more informative during the third trimester of pregnancy, when fetal movements are less significant. 3 Tesla MR-images demonstrate better characteristics than 1,5 Tesla ones, however, there is a risk of heating the patient during scanning, which is especially dangerous for pregnant women.Objective. The aim of the study is to improve fetal and extrafetal structures visualization by means of developed metamaterial pad (metadevice).Design and methods. In the study, a metadevice was considered to improve fetal and extrafetal imaging in a field with magnetic induction of 3 T. 12 pregnant women between 29 and 39 weeks gestation (33,4 ± 4,8 weeks) were examined, standart magnetic resonance images of Single Shot Turbo (SST)/Fast Spin Echo(FSE)) were obtained. Standart abdomen coil was used to receive examination data. Metadevice and the coil were placed on the center of the examined area. The images were evaluated by radiologists on a 5-point Likert scale.Results of metadevice testing showed diagnostic quality improvement, increase in radio-frequency magnetic field homogeneity, decreased SAR value and reduction in body heating effect during MR-scanning.Conclusion. Metadevice-assisted MRI can lower heating risks, reduce dielectric artifacts and improve imaging quality of the fetus and extrafetal structures.