International Journal of
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Review Article Volume 12 Issue 2
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging in prenatal surgical planning: a comprehensive review
Prativa Choudhury, Devasenathipathy Kandasamy, Prabudh Goel
Received: March 14, 2026 | Published: April 7, 2026
Citation: Choudhury P, Kandasamy D, Goel P. Fetal magnetic resonance imaging in prenatal surgical planning: a comprehensive review. Pregnancy & Child Birth. 2026;12(2):41-46. DOI: 10.15406/ipcb.2026.12.00339
Abstract
Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as an important adjunct to ultrasonography in the prenatal evaluation of congenital anomalies that may require surgical intervention after birth. While ultrasound remains the primary screening modality in prenatal imaging, fetal MRI provides superior soft-tissue contrast, multiplanar capability and improved visualization in cases where ultrasound assessment is limited. This review summarizes the role of fetal MRI in prenatal surgical planning across major organ systems, including congenital diaphragmatic hernia, myelomeningocele, sacrococcygeal teratoma, thoracic anomalies, abdominal wall defects and genitourinary malformations. MRI contributes not only to improved anatomical characterization but also to prognostic assessment, delivery planning and preparation for postnatal surgical management. In addition, MRI findings facilitate multidisciplinary decision-making and more accurate parental counselling. With continuing advances in imaging technology and increasing clinical experience, fetal MRI has become an essential complementary tool in modern prenatal care for surgical conditions.
Keywords: fetal MRI, prenatal diagnosis, congenital anomalies, surgical planning, prenatal counselling
©2026 Choudhury, et al. This is an open access article distributed under the terms of the, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and build upon your work non-commercially.