The role of magnetic resonance imaging in fetal renal anomalies

ObjectiveTo evaluate the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in fetuses with suspected renal anomalies after ultrasonography.MethodsEighty-six consecutive singleton fetuses with suspected malformation after ultrasound underwent MRI at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India, from January 1, 2005, to July 31, 2008. The study group comprised 27 fetuses with suspected renal anomaly on ultrasound. The MRI findings were compared with the sonographic findings, and their impact on management was assessed. Postpartum imaging, autopsy, or surgical findings were taken as the gold standard of assessment and diagnosis.ResultsThe sonographic findings in 19 (70.4%) cases were confirmed by MRI; additional findings were obtained with MRI in 7 (25.9%) cases, 3 (11.1%) of which resulted in a change in postnatal management. Additional information was also provided by MRI for 5 (50.0%) of the 10 fetuses with oligohydramnios. The MRI diagnosis was incorrect—compared with ultrasound and gold standard—for 2 (7.4%) fetuses.ConclusionUltrasound is the imaging modality of choice for the diagnosis of fetal renal anomalies; fetal MRI is a useful adjunct, especially when ultrasound is inconclusive owing to oligohydramnios.