Magnetic resonance spectroscopy of the fetal brain

Abstract

Fetal magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is technically feasible in utero and demonstrates similar findings to those observed in neonatal populations. MRS can provide additional information to conventional T1- and T2-weighted imaging of the fetal brain. It is of particular use when subtle changes are present on conventional fetal MRI sequences, and when imaging fetuses at risk of brain injury and metabolic abnormalities.

MR Spectroscopy of the Fetal Brain: Is It Possible without Sedation?

“…In addition, for an optimal signal-to-noise ratio, the VOI should be as close to the receiver coil as possible. 1 The use of flexible coil arrays allows comfortable placement of the receiver coils and the choice of the best-positioned array element for signal detection. The important limiting factor for the quality of MR spectroscopy studies is the presence of motion-associated artifacts.…”

“…MR spectroscopy was performed in 2 groups with presumed normal brain development for study purposes. 1 There, both long and short TEs were the goal. In addition, MR spectroscopy was performed when there were brain pathologies, such as tumors, and in cases with suspected metabolic changes in the fetal brain, for instance, in IUGR.…”

“…In the cephalic position, the fetal head may be more fixed in the maternal pelvis, preventing gross movement of the head. The aim of this study was to assess the feasibility and quality of brain 1 H-MR spectroscopy in unsedated fetuses and to evaluate whether the quality of the examination is dependent on the type of spectra (short/long TE), fetal presentation, GA, and/or fetal pathology. In addition, the results of MR spectroscopy were ana-lyzed with regard to the changes in metabolite concentration with gestational age.…”

A peek into the uterus – MRI of the fetal CNS

“…With diffusion tensor imaging and MR tractography, visualization of the main neuronal pathways is possible, thus enabling new insights into normal and pathological brain development (16). Single voxel spectroscopy is a non-invasive method for assessment of brain metabolism (17). Its clinical applicability is limited to the last months of pregnancy, when the fetus is already in a cephalic presentation.…”

Fetal MRI at 3T—ready for routine use?

“…In general, indications do not differ from those at 1.5 T. [18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26][27] However, regarding specific clinical questions, 3.0-T fetal MRI has the potential to supply more detailed information than lower field strengths. (1) The increased susceptibility at 3.0 T enhances the sensitivity for deoxyhaemoglobin, haemosiderin ( Figure 4) and calcifications.…”