Value of placental virtual magnetic resonance elastography and intravoxel incoherent motion-based diffusion and perfusion in predicting adverse outcomes of small-for-gestational-age infants

ConclusionsFunctional MRI parameters to quantify placenta elastography and microcirculation in SGA patients. This might be a useful tool to assess placental function and a vital non-invasive supplement for predicting adverse outcomes of SGA infants.Critical relevance statementThis prospective study shows DWI-based virtual magnetic resonance elastography and intravoxel incoherent motion-based functional parameters to quantify placenta elastography and microcirculation in small-for-gestational-age patients, which could complement existing non-invasive methods for monitoring and predicting neonatal perinatal adverse outcome.Key points• vMRE is an emerging non-invasive imaging technique for evaluating placenta stiffness.• SGA infants with adverse outcome have stiffer placental elasticity and lower microcirculation.• Risk factors combination displayed better efficacy in predicting adverse outcomes of SGA.Graphical Abstract
Source: Insights into Imaging - Category: Radiology Source Type: research