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Milos RI, Schmidbauer V, Watzenboeck ML, Stuhr F, Gruber GM, Mitter C, Dovjak GO, Milković-Periša M, Kostovic I, Jovanov-Milošević N, Kasprian G, Prayer D. T1-weighted fast fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery sequence (T1-FFLAIR) enables the visualization and quantification of fetal brain myelination in utero. Eur Radiol 2024; 34:4573-4584. [PMID: 38019312 PMCID: PMC11213743 DOI: 10.1007/s00330-023-10401-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Revised: 09/03/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To investigate the advantage of T1-weighted fast fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery MRI sequence without (T1-FFLAIR) and with compressed sensing technology (T1-FFLAIR-CS), which shows improved T1-weighted contrast, over standard used T1-weighted fast field echo (T1-FFE) sequence for the assessment of fetal myelination. MATERIALS AND METHODS This retrospective single-center study included 115 consecutive fetal brain MRI examinations (63 axial and 76 coronal, mean gestational age (GA) 28.56 ± 5.23 weeks, range 19-39 weeks). Two raters, blinded to GA, qualitatively assessed a fetal myelin total score (MTS) on each T1-weighted sequence at five brain regions (medulla oblongata, pons, mesencephalon, thalamus, central region). One rater performed region-of-interest quantitative analysis (n = 61) at the same five brain regions. Pearson correlation analysis was applied for correlation of MTS and of the signal intensity ratios (relative to muscle) with GA on each T1-weighted sequence. Fetal MRI-based results were compared with myelination patterns of postmortem fetal human brains (n = 46; GA 18 to 42), processed by histological and immunohistochemical analysis. RESULTS MTS positively correlated with GA on all three sequences (all r between 0.802 and 0.908). The signal intensity ratios measured at the five brain regions correlated best with GA on T1-FFLAIR (r between 0.583 and 0.785). T1-FFLAIR demonstrated significantly better correlations with GA than T1-FFE for both qualitative and quantitative analysis (all p < 0.05). Furthermore, T1-FFLAIR enabled the best visualization of myelinated brain structures when compared to histology. CONCLUSION T1-FFLAIR outperforms the standard T1-FFE sequence in the visualization of fetal brain myelination, as demonstrated by qualitative and quantitative methods. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT T1-weighted fast fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery sequence (T1-FFLAIR) provided best visualization and quantification of myelination in utero that, in addition to the relatively short acquisition time, makes feasible its routine application in fetal MRI for the assessment of brain myelination. KEY POINTS • So far, the assessment of fetal myelination in utero was limited due to the insufficient contrast. • T1-weighted fast fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery sequence allows a qualitative and quantitative assessment of fetal brain myelination. • T1-weighted fast fluid-attenuated inversion-recovery sequence outperforms the standard used T1-weighted sequence for visualization and quantification of myelination in utero.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruxandra-Iulia Milos
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Victor Schmidbauer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin L Watzenboeck
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Friedrich Stuhr
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gerlinde Maria Gruber
- Department of Anatomy and Biomechanics, Karl Landsteiner University of Health Sciences, 3500, Krems, Austria
| | - Christian Mitter
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Gregor O Dovjak
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Marija Milković-Periša
- Department of Pathology and Cytology, University Hospital Centre Zagreb, Petrova 13, 10000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Ivica Kostovic
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Nataša Jovanov-Milošević
- Croatian Institute for Brain Research, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
- Department of Biology, School of Medicine, University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Gregor Kasprian
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Daniela Prayer
- Department of Biomedical Imaging and Image-Guided Therapy, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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Machado-Rivas F, Cortes-Albornoz MC, Afacan O, Bedoya MA, Calixto C, Choi JJ, Ruggiero M, Gholipour A, Jaimes C. Fetal MRI at 3 T: Principles to Optimize Success. Radiographics 2023; 43:e220141. [PMID: 36995947 PMCID: PMC10091224 DOI: 10.1148/rg.220141] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 03/31/2023]
Abstract
Fetal MRI has emerged as a cornerstone of prenatal imaging, helping to establish the correct diagnosis in pregnancies affected by congenital anomalies. In the past decade, 3 T imaging was introduced as an alternative to increase the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the pulse sequences and improve anatomic detail. However, imaging at a higher field strength is not without challenges. Many artifacts that are barely appreciable at 1.5 T are amplified at 3 T. A systematic approach to imaging at 3 T that incorporates appropriate patient positioning, a thoughtful protocol design, and sequence optimization minimizes the impact of these artifacts and allows radiologists to reap the benefits of the increased SNR. The sequences used are the same at both field strengths and include single-shot T2-weighted, balanced steady-state free-precession, three-dimensional T1-weighted spoiled gradient-echo, and echo-planar imaging. Synergistic use of these acquisitions to sample various tissue contrasts and in various planes provides valuable information about fetal anatomy and pathologic conditions. In the authors' experience, fetal imaging at 3 T outperforms imaging at 1.5 T for most indications when performed under optimal circumstances. The authors condense the cumulative experience of fetal imaging specialists and MRI technologists who practice at a large referral center into a guideline covering all major aspects of fetal MRI at 3 T, from patient preparation to image interpretation. © RSNA, 2023 Quiz questions for this article are available in the supplemental material.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fedel Machado-Rivas
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Maria Camila Cortes-Albornoz
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Onur Afacan
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Maria Alejandra Bedoya
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Camilo Calixto
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Jungwhan John Choi
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Matthew Ruggiero
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Ali Gholipour
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
| | - Camilo Jaimes
- From the Department of Radiology, Boston Children’s Hospital,
300 Longwood Ave, Boston, MA 02215 (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., M.R.,
A.G., C.J.); Department of Radiology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Mass
(J.J.C.); and Department of Radiology, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital,
Cincinnati, Ohio (F.M.R., M.C.C.A., O.A., M.A.B., C.C., A.G., C.J.)
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Xie L, Xu H, He X, Fu H, Zhang L, Bai W, Li X, Bao L, Xu H, Li X, Guo Y. The potential of 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging for the evaluation of fetal anomalies of the great vessels. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1136892. [PMID: 37056942 PMCID: PMC10086421 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1136892] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 03/13/2023] [Indexed: 04/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Purpose To determine the efficacy of 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for the diagnosis of anomalies of the fetal great arteries with comparison to fetal ultrasound, and to compare image quality between 1.5 T and 3.0 T MRI in fetal imaging of the great arteries. Methods We compared the results of postnatal exam or surgery and evaluated the application value of prenatal 1.5 T MRI in the assessment of fetal great-vessel anomalies. To further determine the diagnostic potential of 1.5 T MRI, 23 pregnant women with suspected fetal cardiovascular abnormalities who had undergone ultrasound and 3.0 T MRI were enrolled and compared, respectively. Results Prenatal MRI was superior to ultrasound in demonstrating aortic arch and branch abnormalities (sensitivity, 92.86% vs. 83.33%; specificity, 66.67% vs. 20%). The mean quality ratings for fetal MRI at 1.5 T was higher than 3.0 T (P < 0.001). Other than the fast scan speed afforded by 3.0 T MRI, the signal noise ratio (SNR) of 1.5 T MRI were higher than those of 3.0 T MRI; however, the difference in contrast to noise ratio (CNR) between the two imaging modalities was not statistically significant. Conclusions 1.5 T MRI can achieve an overall assessment of fetal great-vessel anomalies, especially aortic arch and branch abnormalities. Therefore, 1.5 T MRI can be considered a supplementary imaging modality for the prenatal assessment of extracardiac great vessels malformations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjun Xie
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hong Xu
- Department of Ultrasound, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuelian He
- Laboratory of Nervous System Injuries and Diseases, Center for Translational Medicine, Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children at Sichuan University, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hang Fu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Lu Zhang
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Wei Bai
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xuesheng Li
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Li Bao
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Huayan Xu
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Xiaohong Li
- National Center for Birth Defects Monitoring of China, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University; Sichuan Birth Defects Clinical Research Center, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Correspondence: Yingkun Guo Xiaohong Li
| | - Yingkun Guo
- Department of Radiology, Key Laboratory of Obstetric & Gynecologic and Pediatric Diseases and Birth Defects of Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
- Correspondence: Yingkun Guo Xiaohong Li
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Sprenger T, Kits A, Norbeck O, van Niekerk A, Berglund J, Rydén H, Avventi E, Skare S. NeuroMix-A single-scan brain exam. Magn Reson Med 2021; 87:2178-2193. [PMID: 34904751 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.29120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 01/15/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Implement a fast, motion-robust pulse sequence that acquires T1 -weighted, T2 -weighted, T2 * -weighted, T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, and DWI data in one run with only one prescription and one prescan. METHODS A software framework was developed that configures and runs several sequences in one main sequence. Based on that framework, the NeuroMix sequence was implemented, containing motion robust single-shot sequences using EPI and fast spin echo (FSE) readouts (without EPI distortions). Optional multi-shot sequences that provide better contrast, higher resolution, or isotropic resolution could also be run within the NeuroMix sequence. An optimized acquisition order was implemented that minimizes times where no data is acquired. RESULTS NeuroMix is customizable and takes between 1:20 and 4 min for a full brain scan. A comparison with the predecessor EPIMix revealed significant improvements for T2 -weighted and T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery, while taking only 8 s longer for a similar configuration. The optional contrasts were less motion robust but offered a significant increase in quality, detail, and contrast. Initial clinical scans on 1 pediatric and 1 adult patient showed encouraging image quality. CONCLUSION The single-shot FSE readouts for T2 -weighted and T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery and the optional multishot FSE and 3D-EPI contrasts significantly increased diagnostic value compared with EPIMix, allowing NeuroMix to be considered as a standalone brain MRI application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Sprenger
- MR Applied Science Laboratory Europe, GE Healthcare, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Annika Kits
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ola Norbeck
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Adam van Niekerk
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Johan Berglund
- Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Henric Rydén
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Enrico Avventi
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Stefan Skare
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.,Department of Neuroradiology, Karolinska University Hospital, Stockholm, Sweden
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van der Knoop BJ, Zonnenberg IA, Verbeke JIML, de Vries LS, Pistorius LR, van Weissenbruch MM, Vermeulen RJ, de Vries JIP. Additional value of advanced neurosonography and magnetic resonance imaging in fetuses at risk for brain damage. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2020; 56:348-358. [PMID: 31828836 PMCID: PMC7496149 DOI: 10.1002/uog.21943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2019] [Revised: 11/28/2019] [Accepted: 12/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the additional value of fetal multiplanar (axial, coronal and sagittal) neurosonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to that of the standard axial ultrasound planes in diagnosing brain damage in fetuses at high risk. METHODS This was a prospective, multicenter, observational study. Women were eligible for participation if their fetus was at risk for acquired brain anomalies. Risk factors were congenital infection, alloimmune thrombocytopenia, fetal growth restriction, trauma during pregnancy, fetal hydrops, monochorionic twins and prior ultrasound finding suggestive of an acquired brain anomaly. Examinations of the fetal brain before birth comprised axial ultrasound and advanced neurosonography biweekly and MRI once. After birth, neonatal cranial ultrasound was performed at < 24 h and at term-equivalent age. Neonatal brain MRI was performed once at term-equivalent age. An expert panel blinded to medical information, including imaging findings by the other methods, evaluated the presence of periventricular echogenicity (PVE) changes, peri- and intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) and changes in basal ganglia and/or thalami echogenicity (BGTE) on ultrasound, and the equivalent signal intensity (SI) changes on MRI. Conclusions on imaging findings were generated by consensus. The children were followed up with examinations for psychomotor development at 1 year of age, using the Touwen examination and Alberta Infant Motor Scale, and at 2 years of age using Bayley Scale of Infant Development-III (BSID-III) and behavioral, sensory profile and linguistic questionnaires; scores > 1 SD below the mean were considered suspicious for neurodevelopmental sequelae. RESULTS Fifty-six fetuses were examined, and in 39/56 fetuses, all fetal-imaging modalities were available. PVE/SI changes were observed in 6/39, 21/39 and 2/39 fetuses on axial ultrasound planes, multiplanar neurosonography and MRI, respectively. IVH was found in 3/39, 11/39 and 1/39 fetuses, and BGTE/SI changes in 0/39, 12/39 and 0/39 fetuses, respectively. Outcome was suspicious for neurodevelopmental sequelae in 13/46 infants at 1 year, and at 2 years, 41/41 children had scores within 1 SD of the mean on BSID-III and 20 had scores > 1 SD below the mean on the behavioral (5/38), sensory profile (17/37) and/or linguistic (6/39) questionnaires. CONCLUSIONS In this cohort of fetuses at risk for brain damage, the severity of acquired brain anomalies was limited. Nevertheless, multiplanar neurosonography detected more fetal PVE changes, IVH and/or BGTE changes compared to the standard axial ultrasound planes and MRI. Fetal MRI did not demonstrate any anomalies that were not seen on neurosonography. Neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years of age showed no or mild impairment in most cases. © 2019 Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- B. J. van der Knoop
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAmsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Research Institute Amsterdam Movement SciencesAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Research Institute Neuroscience Campus AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - I. A. Zonnenberg
- Department of NeonatologyEmma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - J. I. M. L. Verbeke
- Department of RadiologyAmsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - L. S. de Vries
- Department of NeonatologyUniversity Medical Centre UtrechtUtrechtThe Netherlands
| | - L. R. Pistorius
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyUniversity of Stellenbosch/Tygerberg HospitalTygerbergSouth Africa
| | - M. M. van Weissenbruch
- Department of NeonatologyEmma Children's Hospital, Amsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
| | - R. J. Vermeulen
- Amsterdam UMC, Research Institute Neuroscience Campus AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Department of Child NeurologyMUMC+MaastrichtThe Netherlands
| | - J. I. P. de Vries
- Department of Obstetrics and GynaecologyAmsterdam UMC, Vrije Universiteit AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Research Institute Amsterdam Movement SciencesAmsterdamThe Netherlands
- Amsterdam UMC, Research Institute Neuroscience Campus AmsterdamAmsterdamThe Netherlands
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Pasupathy D, Denbow ML, Rutherford MA. The Combined Use of Ultrasound and Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging for a Comprehensive Fetal Neurological Assessment in Fetal Congenital Cardiac Defects: Scientific Impact Paper No. 60. BJOG 2019; 126:e142-e151. [PMID: 30916430 DOI: 10.1111/1471-0528.15620] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Heart problems are common in newborn babies, affecting approximately 5-10 in 1000 babies. Some are more serious than others, but most babies born with heart problems do not have other health issues. Of those babies who have a serious heart problem, almost 1 in 4 will have heart surgery in their first year. In the UK, pregnant women are offered a scan at around 20 weeks to try and spot any heart problems. In most cases there is not a clear reason for the problem, but sometimes other issues, such as genetic conditions, are discovered. In recent years the care given to these babies after they are born has improved their chances of surviving. However, it is recognised that babies born with heart problems have a risk of delays in their learning and development. This may be due to their medical condition, or as a result of surgery and complications after birth. In babies with heart problems, there is a need for more research on ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to understand how the brain develops and why these babies are more likely to have delays in learning and development. This paper discusses the way ultrasound and MRI are used in assessing the baby's brain. Ultrasound is often used to spot any problems, looking at how the baby's brain develops in pregnancy. Advances in ultrasound technologies have made this easier. MRI is well-established and safe in pregnancy, and if problems in the brain have been seen on ultrasound, MRI may be used to look at these problems in more detail. While it is not always clear what unusual MRI findings can mean for the baby in the long term, increased understanding may mean parents can be given more information about possible outcomes for the baby and may help to improve the counselling they are offered before their baby's birth.
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van der Knoop BJ, Vermeulen RJ, Verbeke JIML, Pistorius LR, de Vries JIP. Fetal MRI, lower acceptance by women in research vs. clinical setting. J Perinat Med 2018; 46:983-990. [PMID: 29031020 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2016-0360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
AIM To determine acceptance of pregnant women to undergo fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examination in research and clinical setting. METHODS A prospective study included a research group [part of a study comparing brain ultrasound (US) to MRI in fetuses at risk for acquired brain damage] and a clinical group [fetuses with suspected (brain) anomalies after structural US examination] from 2011 to 2014. All women were advised to use sedatives. MRI declinations, use of sedation, MRI duration and imaging quality were compared between both groups. RESULTS Study participation was accepted in 57/104 (55%) research cases. Fetal MRI was performed in 34/104 (33%) research and 43/44 (98%) clinical cases. Reasons to decline study participation were MRI related in 41%, and participation was too burdensome in 46%. Acceptance was highest for indication infection and lowest in alloimmune thrombocytopenia and monochorionic twin pregnancy. Sedatives were used in 14/34 research and 43/43 clinical cases. Scan duration and quality were comparable (21 and 20 min in research and clinical cases, respectively, moderate/good quality in both groups). CONCLUSIONS Pregnant women consider MRI more burdensome than professionals realize. Two-third of women at risk for fetal brain damage decline MRI examination. Future studies should evaluate which information about fetal MRI is supportive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bloeme J van der Knoop
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057, 1007 MB Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Tel.: +31 (0) 20 4443239 or +31 (0) 20 4444444, pager 6112, Fax: +31 (0) 20 4443333.,Neuroscience Campus, VU University, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roland J Vermeulen
- Department of Child Neurology, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057,1007 MB Amsterdam, TheNetherlands
| | - Jonathan I M L Verbeke
- Department of Pediatric Radiology, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057,1007 MB Amsterdam, TheNetherlands
| | - Lourens R Pistorius
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, TheNetherlands
| | - Johanna I P de Vries
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, VU University Medical Center, P.O. Box 7057,1007 MB Amsterdam, TheNetherlands.,Research Institute MOVE, VU University, Amsterdam, TheNetherlands
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8
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Single-Shot Version of FLAIR Sequence in the Detection of Intraventricular Anomalies: Preliminary Experience in Fetal MR Imaging. J Comput Assist Tomogr 2018; 42:487-491. [PMID: 29287023 DOI: 10.1097/rct.0000000000000701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate single-shot (ss) FLAIR sequence in the detection of intraventricular anomalies in a series of fetuses showing mild-moderate ventriculomegaly at ultrasound. SUBJECTS AND METHODS Fetuses with mild-moderate isolated ventriculomegaly, which underwent MR imaging between 2003 and 2014 were considered eligible. Fetuses were examined by standard MR protocol and ss-FLAIR sequence, tailored for snapshot imaging. Two paediatric neuroradiologists evaluated MR images. RESULTS 542 cases were selected. MR imaging was performed at mean 26 weeks of gestation. ss-FLAIR sequence detected intraventricular findings, consistent with cysts in 10 cases. In 3/10 intraventricular cysts were also evident on ss-FSE T2 and FSE T1-weighted images. In no case diffusion weighted imaging was able to detect cyst. No cyst was highlighted on ss-FSE-T2 and FSE-T1-weighted images, without being visible also on ss-FLAIR. CONCLUSION ss-FLAIR sequence may be useful to detect intraventricular anomalies especially when fetal position or maternal obesity prevents adequate visualization by ultrasound.
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Robinson AJ, Ederies MA. Fetal neuroimaging: an update on technical advances and clinical findings. Pediatr Radiol 2018; 48:471-485. [PMID: 29550864 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-017-3965-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2017] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 08/09/2017] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper is based on a literature review from 2011 to 2016. The paper is divided into two main sections. The first section relates to technical advances in fetal imaging techniques, including fetal motion compensation, imaging at 3.0 T, 3-D T2-weighted MRI, susceptibility-weighted imaging, computed tomography, morphometric analysis, diffusion tensor imaging, spectroscopy and fetal behavioral assessment. The second section relates to clinical updates, including cerebral lamination, migrational anomalies, midline anomalies, neural tube defects, posterior fossa anomalies, sulcation/gyration and hypoxic-ischemic insults.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley J Robinson
- Sidra Medical and Research Center, Qatar Foundation, Education City North, Al Luqta Street, Doha, 26999, Qatar. .,Clinical Radiology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
| | - M Ashraf Ederies
- Sidra Medical and Research Center, Qatar Foundation, Education City North, Al Luqta Street, Doha, 26999, Qatar.,Clinical Radiology, Weill-Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
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10
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Batalle D, Edwards AD, O'Muircheartaigh J. Annual Research Review: Not just a small adult brain: understanding later neurodevelopment through imaging the neonatal brain. J Child Psychol Psychiatry 2018; 59:350-371. [PMID: 29105061 PMCID: PMC5900873 DOI: 10.1111/jcpp.12838] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There has been a recent proliferation in neuroimaging research focusing on brain development in the prenatal, neonatal and very early childhood brain. Early brain injury and preterm birth are associated with increased risk of neurodevelopmental disorders, indicating the importance of this early period for later outcome. SCOPE AND METHODOLOGY Although using a wide range of different methodologies and investigating diverse samples, the common aim of many of these studies has been to both track normative development and investigate deviations in this development to predict behavioural, cognitive and neurological function in childhood. Here we review structural and functional neuroimaging studies investigating the developing brain. We focus on practical and technical complexities of studying this early age range and discuss how neuroimaging techniques have been successfully applied to investigate later neurodevelopmental outcome. CONCLUSIONS Neuroimaging markers of later outcome still have surprisingly low predictive power and their specificity to individual neurodevelopmental disorders is still under question. However, the field is still young, and substantial challenges to both acquiring and modeling neonatal data are being met.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dafnis Batalle
- Centre for the Developing BrainSchool of Imaging Sciences & Biomedical EngineeringKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - A. David Edwards
- Centre for the Developing BrainSchool of Imaging Sciences & Biomedical EngineeringKing's College LondonLondonUK
| | - Jonathan O'Muircheartaigh
- Centre for the Developing BrainSchool of Imaging Sciences & Biomedical EngineeringKing's College LondonLondonUK
- Department of NeuroimagingInstitute of Psychiatry, Psychology and NeuroscienceKing's College LondonLondonUK
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11
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Ferrazzi G, Price AN, Teixeira RPAG, Cordero-Grande L, Hutter J, Gomes A, Padormo F, Hughes E, Schneider T, Rutherford M, Kuklisova Murgasova M, Hajnal JV. An efficient sequence for fetal brain imaging at 3T with enhanced T 1 contrast and motion robustness. Magn Reson Med 2017; 80:137-146. [PMID: 29193244 PMCID: PMC5900721 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.27012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Ultrafast single-shot T2 -weighted images are common practice in fetal MR exams. However, there is limited experience with fetal T1 -weighted acquisitions. This study aims at establishing a robust framework that allows fetal T1 -weighted scans to be routinely acquired in utero at 3T. METHODS A 2D gradient echo sequence with an adiabatic inversion was optimized to be robust to fetal motion and maternal breathing optimizing grey/white matter contrast at the same time. This was combined with slice to volume registration and super resolution methods to produce volumetric reconstructions. The sequence was tested on 22 fetuses. RESULTS Optimized grey/white matter contrast and robustness to fetal motion and maternal breathing were achieved. Signal from cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and amniotic fluid was nulled and 0.75 mm isotropic anatomical reconstructions of the fetal brain were obtained using slice-to-volume registration and super resolution techniques. Total acquisition time for a single stack was 56 s, all acquired during free breathing. Enhanced sensitivity to normal anatomy and pathology with respect to established methods is demonstrated. A direct comparison with a 3D spoiled gradient echo sequence and a controlled motion experiment run on an adult volunteer are also shown. CONCLUSION This paper describes a robust framework to perform T1 -weighted acquisitions and reconstructions of the fetal brain in utero. Magn Reson Med 80:137-146, 2018. © 2017 The Authors Magnetic Resonance in Medicine published by Wiley Periodicals, Inc. on behalf of International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine. This is an open access article under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution NonCommercial License, which permits use, distribution and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited and is not used for commercial purposes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulio Ferrazzi
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Anthony N Price
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Rui Pedro A G Teixeira
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Lucilio Cordero-Grande
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Jana Hutter
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Ana Gomes
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Francesco Padormo
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK.,Translational and Molecular Imaging Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York, USA
| | - Emer Hughes
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | | | - Mary Rutherford
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Maria Kuklisova Murgasova
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
| | - Joseph V Hajnal
- Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College, London, UK
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12
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Manganaro L, Bernardo S, Antonelli A, Vinci V, Saldari M, Catalano C. Fetal MRI of the central nervous system: State-of-the-art. Eur J Radiol 2017; 93:273-283. [PMID: 28668426 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrad.2017.06.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2016] [Revised: 05/31/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal ultrasonographic (US) examination is considered as the first tool in the assessment of fetal abnormalities. However, several large-scale studies point out that some malformations, in particular central nervous system (CNS) anomalies, are not well characterized through US. Therefore, the actual malformation severity is not always related to prenatal ultrasound (US) findings. Over the past 20 years, ultrafast Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has progressively increased as a prenatal 3rd level diagnostic technique with a good sensitivity, particularly for the study of fetal CNS malformations. In fact, CNS anomalies are the most common clinical indications for fetal MRI, representing about 80% of the total examinations. This review covers the recent literature on fetal brain MRI, with emphasis on techniques, safety and indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucia Manganaro
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvia Bernardo
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Amanda Antonelli
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Valeria Vinci
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Matteo Saldari
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
| | - Carlo Catalano
- Department of Radiology, Sapienza University of Rome, Viale Regina Elena 324, 00161, Rome, Italy.
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13
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Story L, Rutherford M. Advances and applications in fetal magnetic resonance imaging. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2015. [DOI: 10.1111/tog.12203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Lisa Story
- London Deanery; Darent Valley Hospital; Darenth Wood Road Dartford Kent DA2 8DA UK
| | - Mary Rutherford
- King's College London; Perinatal Imaging Unit; St Thomas's Hospital; Westminster Bridge Road London SE1 7EH UK
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14
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Vasylechko S, Malamateniou C, Nunes RG, Fox M, Allsop J, Rutherford M, Rueckert D, Hajnal JV. T2* relaxometry of fetal brain at 1.5 Tesla using a motion tolerant method. Magn Reson Med 2015; 73:1795-802. [PMID: 25046845 DOI: 10.1002/mrm.25299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2013] [Revised: 03/29/2014] [Accepted: 05/01/2014] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to determine T2* values for the fetal brain in utero and to compare them with previously reported values in preterm and term neonates. Knowledge of T2* may be useful for assessing brain development, brain abnormalities, and for optimizing functional imaging studies. METHODS Maternal respiration and unpredictable fetal motion mean that conventional multishot acquisition techniques used in adult T2* relaxometry studies are not practical. Single shot multiecho echo planar imaging was used as a rapid method for measuring fetal T2* by effectively freezing intra-slice motion. RESULTS T2* determined from a sample of 24 subjects correlated negatively with gestational age with mean values of 220 ms (±45) for frontal white matter, 159 ms (±32) for thalamic gray matter, and 236 ms (±45) for occipital white matter. CONCLUSION Fetal T2* values are higher than those previously reported for preterm neonates and decline with a consistent trend across gestational age. The data suggest that longer than usual echo times or direct T2* measurement should be considered when performing fetal fMRI to reach optimal BOLD sensitivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Serge Vasylechko
- Biomedical Image Analysis Group, Department of Computing, Imperial College London, United Kingdom
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15
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Gholipour A, Estroff JA, Barnewolt CE, Robertson RL, Grant PE, Gagoski B, Warfield SK, Afacan O, Connolly SA, Neil JJ, Wolfberg A, Mulkern RV. Fetal MRI: A Technical Update with Educational Aspirations. CONCEPTS IN MAGNETIC RESONANCE. PART A, BRIDGING EDUCATION AND RESEARCH 2014; 43:237-266. [PMID: 26225129 PMCID: PMC4515352 DOI: 10.1002/cmr.a.21321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/08/2023]
Abstract
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) examinations have become well-established procedures at many institutions and can serve as useful adjuncts to ultrasound (US) exams when diagnostic doubts remain after US. Due to fetal motion, however, fetal MRI exams are challenging and require the MR scanner to be used in a somewhat different mode than that employed for more routine clinical studies. Herein we review the techniques most commonly used, and those that are available, for fetal MRI with an emphasis on the physics of the techniques and how to deploy them to improve success rates for fetal MRI exams. By far the most common technique employed is single-shot T2-weighted imaging due to its excellent tissue contrast and relative immunity to fetal motion. Despite the significant challenges involved, however, many of the other techniques commonly employed in conventional neuro- and body MRI such as T1 and T2*-weighted imaging, diffusion and perfusion weighted imaging, as well as spectroscopic methods remain of interest for fetal MR applications. An effort to understand the strengths and limitations of these basic methods within the context of fetal MRI is made in order to optimize their use and facilitate implementation of technical improvements for the further development of fetal MR imaging, both in acquisition and post-processing strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Gholipour
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Judith A Estroff
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Carol E Barnewolt
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Richard L Robertson
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - P Ellen Grant
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Borjan Gagoski
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Simon K Warfield
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Onur Afacan
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Susan A Connolly
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Jeffrey J Neil
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Adam Wolfberg
- Boston Maternal Fetal Medicine, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Robert V Mulkern
- Department of Radiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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16
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Multidimensional analysis of fetal posterior fossa in health and disease. THE CEREBELLUM 2014; 12:632-44. [PMID: 23553467 DOI: 10.1007/s12311-013-0470-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is now routinely used to further investigate cerebellar malformations detected with ultrasound. However, the lack of 2D and 3D biometrics in the current literature hinders the detailed characterisation and classification of cerebellar anomalies. The main objectives of this fetal neuroimaging study were to provide normal posterior fossa growth trajectories during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy via semi-automatic segmentation of reconstructed fetal brain MR images and to assess common cerebellar malformations in comparison with the reference data. Using a 1.5-T MRI scanner, 143 MR images were obtained from 79 normal control and 53 fetuses with posterior fossa abnormalities that were grouped according to the severity of diagnosis on visual MRI inspections. All quantifications were performed on volumetric datasets, and supplemental outcome information was collected from the surviving infants. Normal growth trajectories of total brain, cerebellar, vermis, pons and fourth ventricle volumes showed significant correlations with 2D measurements and increased in second-order polynomial trends across gestation (Pearson r, p < 0.05). Comparison of normal controls to five abnormal cerebellum subgroups depicted significant alterations in volumes that could not be detected exclusively with 2D analysis (MANCOVA, p < 0.05). There were 15 terminations of pregnancy, 8 neonatal deaths, and a spectrum of genetic and neurodevelopmental outcomes in the assessed 24 children with cerebellar abnormalities. The given posterior fossa biometrics enhance the delineation of normal and abnormal cerebellar phenotypes on fetal MRI and confirm the advantages of utilizing advanced neuroimaging tools in clinical fetal research.
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17
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de Marvao A, Dawes TJW, Shi W, Minas C, Keenan NG, Diamond T, Durighel G, Montana G, Rueckert D, Cook SA, O’Regan DP. Population-based studies of myocardial hypertrophy: high resolution cardiovascular magnetic resonance atlases improve statistical power. J Cardiovasc Magn Reson 2014; 16:16. [PMID: 24490638 PMCID: PMC3914701 DOI: 10.1186/1532-429x-16-16] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2013] [Accepted: 01/29/2014] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cardiac phenotypes, such as left ventricular (LV) mass, demonstrate high heritability although most genes associated with these complex traits remain unidentified. Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have relied on conventional 2D cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) as the gold-standard for phenotyping. However this technique is insensitive to the regional variations in wall thickness which are often associated with left ventricular hypertrophy and require large cohorts to reach significance. Here we test whether automated cardiac phenotyping using high spatial resolution CMR atlases can achieve improved precision for mapping wall thickness in healthy populations and whether smaller sample sizes are required compared to conventional methods. METHODS LV short-axis cine images were acquired in 138 healthy volunteers using standard 2D imaging and 3D high spatial resolution CMR. A multi-atlas technique was used to segment and co-register each image. The agreement between methods for end-diastolic volume and mass was made using Bland-Altman analysis in 20 subjects. The 3D and 2D segmentations of the LV were compared to manual labeling by the proportion of concordant voxels (Dice coefficient) and the distances separating corresponding points. Parametric and nonparametric data were analysed with paired t-tests and Wilcoxon signed-rank test respectively. Voxelwise power calculations used the interstudy variances of wall thickness. RESULTS The 3D volumetric measurements showed no bias compared to 2D imaging. The segmented 3D images were more accurate than 2D images for defining the epicardium (Dice: 0.95 vs 0.93, P<0.001; mean error 1.3 mm vs 2.2 mm, P<0.001) and endocardium (Dice 0.95 vs 0.93, P<0.001; mean error 1.1 mm vs 2.0 mm, P<0.001). The 3D technique resulted in significant differences in wall thickness assessment at the base, septum and apex of the LV compared to 2D (P<0.001). Fewer subjects were required for 3D imaging to detect a 1 mm difference in wall thickness (72 vs 56, P<0.001). CONCLUSIONS High spatial resolution CMR with automated phenotyping provides greater power for mapping wall thickness than conventional 2D imaging and enables a reduction in the sample size required for studies of environmental and genetic determinants of LV wall thickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio de Marvao
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Timothy JW Dawes
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Wenzhe Shi
- Department of Computing, Imperial College London, Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Christopher Minas
- Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Niall G Keenan
- Department of Cardiology, Imperial College NHS Healthcare Trust, Du Cane Road, London W12 0HS, UK
| | - Tamara Diamond
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Giuliana Durighel
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
| | - Giovanni Montana
- Department of Mathematics, Imperial College London, South Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Daniel Rueckert
- Department of Computing, Imperial College London, Kensington Campus, Exhibition Road, London SW7 2AZ, UK
| | - Stuart A Cook
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
- Department of Cardiology, National Heart Centre Singapore, 17 Third Hospital Ave, Singapore 168752, Singapore
- Duke-NUS, 8 College Road, Singapore 169857, Singapore
| | - Declan P O’Regan
- From the Medical Research Council Clinical Sciences Centre, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Du Cane Road, London W12 0NN, UK
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18
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Malamateniou C, Malik SJ, Counsell SJ, Allsop JM, McGuinness AK, Hayat T, Broadhouse K, Nunes RG, Ederies AM, Hajnal JV, Rutherford MA. Motion-compensation techniques in neonatal and fetal MR imaging. AJNR Am J Neuroradiol 2012; 34:1124-36. [PMID: 22576885 DOI: 10.3174/ajnr.a3128] [Citation(s) in RCA: 85] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
SUMMARY Fetal and neonatal MR imaging is increasingly used as a complementary diagnostic tool to sonography. MR imaging is an ideal technique for imaging fetuses and neonates because of the absence of ionizing radiation, the superior contrast of soft tissues compared with sonography, the availability of different contrast options, and the increased FOV. Motion in the normally mobile fetus and the unsettled, sleeping, or sedated neonate during a long acquisition will decrease image quality in the form of motion artifacts, hamper image interpretation, and often necessitate a repeat MR imaging to establish a diagnosis. This article reviews current techniques of motion compensation in fetal and neonatal MR imaging, including the following: 1) motion-prevention strategies (such as adequate patient preparation, patient coaching, and sedation, when required), 2) motion-artifacts minimization methods (such as fast imaging protocols, data undersampling, and motion-resistant sequences), and 3) motion-detection/correction schemes (such as navigators and self-navigated sequences, external motion-tracking devices, and postprocessing approaches) and their application in fetal and neonatal brain MR imaging. Additionally some background on the repertoire of motion of the fetal and neonatal patient and the resulting artifacts will be presented, as well as insights into future developments and emerging techniques of motion compensation.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Malamateniou
- Robert Steiner MRI Unit, Imaging Sciences Department, Hammersmith Hospital Campus, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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Clouchoux C, Limperopoulos C. Novel applications of quantitative MRI for the fetal brain. Pediatr Radiol 2012; 42 Suppl 1:S24-32. [PMID: 22395718 DOI: 10.1007/s00247-011-2178-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2011] [Accepted: 04/27/2011] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
The advent of ultrafast MRI acquisitions is offering vital insights into the critical maturational events that occur throughout pregnancy. Concurrent with the ongoing enhancement of ultrafast imaging has been the development of innovative image-processing techniques that are enabling us to capture and quantify the exuberant growth, and organizational and remodeling processes that occur during fetal brain development. This paper provides an overview of the role of advanced neuroimaging techniques to study in vivo brain maturation and explores the application of a range of new quantitative imaging biomarkers that can be used clinically to monitor high-risk pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cédric Clouchoux
- Division of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology, Children's National Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA.
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20
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Lin X, Zhang Z, Teng G, Meng H, Yu T, Hou Z, Fang F, Zang F, Liu S. Measurements using 7.0 T post-mortem magnetic resonance imaging of the scalar dimensions of the fetal brain between 12 and 20 weeks gestational age. Int J Dev Neurosci 2011; 29:885-9. [PMID: 21820045 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2011.07.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2011] [Revised: 07/13/2011] [Accepted: 07/14/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, scalar values for the fetal brain from 12 to 20 weeks gestational age were obtained. Fifty-two fetal specimens of 12-20 weeks gestational age with an anatomically normal and developmentally appropriate central nervous system (CNS) were scanned using a 7.0 T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The linear biometric measurements of the brain were then determined. All the measurements (except for the interhemispheric distance) were found to increase linearly with gestational age, although each increased at a different growth rates. The 95% confidence interval for each value was obtained. These data may be considered to be a valuable reference for the assessment of normal fetal brain development in clinical settings and as a supplement to post-mortem MRI or anatomical investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiangtao Lin
- Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong University School of Medicine, 250012 Jinan, Shandong, China
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