Diagnosis & Imaging
Fetal MRI
Fetal MRI is detailed magnetic resonance imaging of the baby before birth, used to evaluate the brain and an encephalocele's contents.
In short: Fetal MRI
- It adds detail beyond ultrasound about the sac contents and brain.
- It is typically done later in pregnancy.
- It does not use radiation.
- It helps assess associated brain findings.
What it is
It is magnetic resonance imaging performed on the baby before birth. It uses magnetic fields (not radiation) to create detailed images of the baby's brain and other structures.
Understanding Fetal MRI
It adds detail beyond ultrasound, helping clarify what an encephalocele sac contains (membranes and fluid versus brain tissue) and revealing associated brain findings such as malformations or ventricular enlargement. It is typically performed later in pregnancy (often after about 22 weeks), when the brain is more developed and better visualized. This detail helps with counseling and planning.
Why it matters
Understanding fetal MRI helps families see why it may be recommended after an ultrasound finding — to clarify the sac contents and examine the brain in detail, which informs the outlook and the plan.
Common questions
What does fetal MRI add?
Detail about the sac contents and the brain.
Does it use radiation?
No — it uses magnetic fields.
When is it done?
Typically later in pregnancy, often after about 22 weeks.
Bottom line
Fetal MRI is detailed, radiation-free imaging of the baby that clarifies the encephalocele's contents and the brain.
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