Imaging of the human embryo with magnetic resonance imaging microscopy and high-resolution transvaginal 3-dimensional sonography: human embryology in the 21st century.
OBJECTIVE
This article illustrates early human development, demonstrated by magnetic resonance (MR) microscopy and computer graphics on human embryo specimens, and advanced 3-dimensional (3D) sonography in clinical obstetrics.


METHODS
Fixed human embryo specimens were imaged by MR microscopy coupled with computer graphics technology. Transvaginal 3D sonography was used to examine embryos in ongoing gestations and compare embryological findings.


RESULTS
Advances in MR microscopy allowed detailed visualization of embryo specimens. Computational techniques allowed reconstruction of tomographic images to render them as 3D structures. High-resolution transvaginal 3D sonography produced images that demonstrated the neural tube from week 6; brain anatomy and vasculature from week 8; and craniofacial morphology and other structures from week 11.


CONCLUSIONS
MR microscopy is a novel technique that enables nondestructive, high-resolution imaging of embryo specimens. On the other hand, 3D sonoembryology allows detailed anatomical visualization in vivo and is the basis for the assessment of anomalies as well as human development.
Clinical Research Institute of Fetal Medicine Pooh Maternity Clinic, Osaka, Japan. rkpooh@me.com
Ritsuko K
RK
Pooh
Kohei
K
Shiota
Asim
A
Kurjak
D047108:Embryonic Development; D005121:Extremities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000196:embryology; D005145:Face / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000196:embryology; D006801:Humans; D021621:Imaging, Three-Dimensional / Q000379:methods*; D017880:Limb Deformities, Congenital / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000196:embryology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging / Q000379:methods*; D008853:Microscopy / Q000379:methods*; D013116:Spinal Cord / Q000002:abnormalities / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000196:embryology; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal / Q000379:methods*