[Magnetic resonance imaging applications in obstetrics].
OBJECTIVE
To review the main indications and results of magnetic resonance imaging in the pregnant women.


METHODS
We reviewed MRI practice during the pregnancy based on our own experience in a prenatal diagnostic center and data in the literature. Rapid improvement in MRI technology has allowed more extensive use, giving a good contrast-to-noise ratio and multiplanar imaging.


RESULTS
Although ultrasound provides primary screening information, final diagnosis may require further investigations. MRI, to be performed in the second and third trimester, is the non-invasive second line tool of choice in this context. The most widespread indications are for brain disease: search for a cause of ventriculomegaly or biometric abnormality, confirmation of a malformative or acquired lesion. Progressively, indications were widened to head and neck, thorax, abdomen and pelvis areas. Moreover, systematic indications include previous fetal pathology or the pregnancy context. Other MRI indications have been suggested: placental malposition, pelvimetry and maternal genito-urinary tract.


CONCLUSIONS
MRI is becoming the natural and necessary second line imaging technique, with increasing indications. It must be kept in mind however that all pathological conditions cannot be depicted by these morphological studies.
Launay
S
S
Service de Radiologie et d'Imagerie Médicale, Hôpital Jeanne-de-Flandre, 2, avenue Oscar-Lambret, 59037 Lille Cedex.
Cuilleret
V
V
Boyer
C
C
Mestdagh
P
P
Moisan
S
S
Vaast
P
P
Bourgeot
P
P
Denes
M
M
Rocourt
N
N
Robert
Y
Y
D000013:Congenital Abnormalities / Q000175:diagnosis; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D011247:Pregnancy; D011248:Pregnancy Complications / Q000175:diagnosis; D011296:Prenatal Diagnosis / Q000379:methods*