title: Ultrafast magnetic resonance imaging of the neonate in a magnetic resonance-compatible incubator with a built-in coil.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging of the neonate is important clinically, because this group of patients often has complex and multiple problems due to prematurity and developmental abnormalities. MR imaging usually involves moving neonates away from their controlled environment to the scanner.
  
  
  OBJECTIVE
  In this study we present the results of our initial experience with an MR-compatible incubator used on a 1.5-T system.
  
  
  METHODS
  Seven neonates were imaged at 1.5 T without sedation or anesthesia. Images were obtained by using single-shot fast spin echo, 3-dimensional Fourier transfer gradient echo, and diffusion-weighted sequences. In 4 cases, time-of-flight angiography was performed.
  
  
  RESULTS
  All 7 neonates were stable throughout the scan time (10-21 minutes). Experienced observers graded the images for quality, and all were graded excellent or good. In no case was the image quality poor.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  Neonates can be imaged safely by using an MR-compatible incubator and fast image sequences. This method should allow neonates to be imaged by MR in sites at which a dedicated neonatal MR scanner is not available.
authors.affiliation: Section of Academic Radiology, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom. e.whitby@sheffield.ac.uk
authors.forename: Elspeth H
authors.initials: EH
authors.lastname: Whitby
authors.forename: Paul D
authors.initials: PD
authors.lastname: Griffiths
authors.forename: Torsten
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Lonneker-Lammers
authors.forename: Ravi
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Srinivasan
authors.forename: Daniel J A
authors.initials: DJ
authors.lastname: Connolly
authors.forename: David
authors.initials: D
authors.lastname: Capener
authors.forename: Martyn N J
authors.initials: MN
authors.lastname: Paley
mesh_terms: D001921:Brain / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000473:pathology*; D002543:Cerebral Hemorrhage / Q000175:diagnosis; D005583:Fourier Analysis; D006408:Hematoma, Subdural / Q000175:diagnosis; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional; D007186:Incubators, Infant; D007223:Infant; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000295:instrumentation*