MRI FETAL
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
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Measures
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About The Test
What is MRI FETAL?
MRI FETAL (Magnetic Resonance Imaging for the fetus) is a painless scan that uses strong magnets and radio waves to create high-resolution images of your unborn baby. Unlike ultrasound, it can reveal fine details of the brain, spine, heart, and other organs.
List of Parameters
Technologists and radiologists at Cadabams Diagnostics review:
- Brain structure
- Spine and spinal cord
- Heart and great vessels
- Lungs and diaphragm
- Abdominal organs (liver, kidneys, bowel)
- Limb development
Each parameter is measured against gestational-age norms to spot any deviation early.
Why This Test
- Suspected brain anomalies (e.g., ventriculomegaly)
- Spine defects (spina bifida)
- Chest or abdominal masses
- Placental issues (placenta accreta spectrum, vasa previa)
Early detection guides timely delivery planning and neonatal care.
When to Take Test
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Test
- High-resolution images—see structures as small as 1 mm
- No radiation exposure—safe for mother and baby
- Early detection of anomalies—plan interventions before birth
- Better planning for delivery—decide on hospital level and neonatal team
Illnesses Diagnosed with Fetal Ultrasound
Cadabams Diagnostics regularly identifies:
- Neural tube defects
- Hydrocephalus
- Congenital heart disease
- Cleft lip/palate
Timely diagnosis improves outcomes and helps families prepare emotionally and logistically.
Preparing for test
Pre-requisites
- Recent ultrasound report
- Fasting 2–4 hours before (if contrast is needed—rarely)
Best Time to Take the MRI FETAL
- Brain or spine: 20–24 weeks
- Chest or abdomen: 24–32 weeks
- Late check-up: up to 38 weeks
Eligibility
Any pregnant woman after 18 weeks unless contraindicated by metal implants or claustrophobia.
Procedure for Taking a MRI FETAL
- Change into MRI-safe gown.
- Lie on left side for comfort.
- Coil placed over the belly; scan lasts 20–45 minutes.
- Mother can listen to music; baby’s heartbeat monitored if needed.
Caution Before Taking the Test
Inform staff about:
- Pacemakers or orthopedic implants
- Tattoos with metallic ink
- Kidney issues (if contrast considered)
Test Results
Findings and Results
| Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Ventricular width 12 mm | Slightly enlarged | May indicate mild ventriculomegaly; follow-up advised |
| Ventricular Size | Measurement of lateral ventricles in the fetal brain. | Normal or varying degrees of dilation: Mild, Moderate, Severe. Significant dilation (ventriculomegaly/hydrocephalus) may indicate underlying brain abnormalities and potential developmental issues. |
| Corpus Callosum | Presence, size, and morphology of the corpus callosum (connects brain hemispheres). | Normal, partially absent (dysgenesis), or completely absent (agenesis). Absence or malformation can affect brain connectivity, often linked to neurodevelopmental delays. |
| Cortical Development | Assessment of brain surface folds (gyri) and grooves (sulci) appropriate for gestational age. | Normal gyration, or malformations such as lissencephaly (smooth brain) or polymicrogyria (excessive small folds). Such malformations can impair cognitive and motor function. |
| Spine gap at L4–L5 | Visible defect | Consistent with spina bifida; pediatric neurosurgery consult |
| Spinal Canal Integrity | Evaluation for open neural tube defects (e.g., myelomeningocele) or tethered cord syndrome. | Normal, or presence of defect. Open defects require specialized care due to risk of neurological impairments. |
| Heart 4-chamber view normal | All valves seen | Reassuring; low risk of major CHD |
| Estimated Lung Volume / Lung-to-Head Ratio | Quantitative or qualitative measurement of lung size, critical in conditions like Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH). | Normal or reduced (pulmonary hypoplasia). Lung size predicts respiratory function and viability after birth. |
| Lung Parenchyma | Appearance of lung tissue, checking for cystic or solid lesions (e.g., congenital pulmonary airway malformation - CPAM). | Normal or presence of lesions. The lesion type and extent guide prognosis and treatment planning. |
| Other Specific Anomaly Noted: | Description of any structural abnormality in other fetal organs (e.g., renal agenesis, duodenal atresia, limb deformities). | Details the anomaly and its implications, which vary widely; some require immediate or long-term pediatric interventions. |
Risks & Limitations
- No radiation—proven safe in clinical studies
- May not be suitable if you have certain metal implants
- Images can be affected by large maternal body habitus or excessive fetal movement
FAQs
Is MRI FETAL safe for my baby?
Yes. Extensive research shows no harmful effects from magnetic fields used in MRI FETAL.
When is the best time for MRI FETAL?
Most scans are done between 20–32 weeks, depending on the organ.
How long does the scan take?
20–45 minutes, depending on fetal position and type of study.
Do I need a full bladder?
Usually not; a partly filled bladder is enough for comfort.
Will I get results the same day?
Preliminary findings are shared the same day; full report within 24 hours.
What is the approximate cost of a Fetal MRI scan at Cadabams Diagnostics?
The "cost of fetal mri scan" can vary based on the specifics of the examination and your insurance coverage. For detailed information on pricing and insurance, please contact our billing department at Cadabams Diagnostics directly or visit our [Link to: Pricing/Insurance Information Page]. They can provide you with an estimate based on your specific needs.
Can a Fetal MRI provide information about future developmental outcomes?
A Fetal MRI primarily identifies structural abnormalities or differences in the developing baby. Some of these structural findings, particularly those affecting the brain, may be associated with an increased likelihood of future developmental challenges, such as developmental delay, learning difficulties, or conditions on the neurodiversity spectrum. While a Fetal MRI cannot definitively predict these outcomes, it can provide crucial information that helps doctors and parents anticipate potential needs. This allows for early planning, monitoring, and timely access to interventions like pediatric therapy or sensory integration support services after birth, which can significantly improve long-term outcomes.