Aboughalia Hassan,  Dighe Manjiri

Final Pr. ID: Poster #: EDU-010

Fetal lung maturity is a key factor determining perinatal morbidity and mortality. Clinicians can perform amniocentesis and evaluate the amniotic fluid for certain surfactant byproducts such as lethicin, sphingomyelin, and phosphatidylglycerol to assess lung maturity. However, amniocentesis is invasive, and its results can be prone to errors. Imaging can offer a reliable non-invasive alternative that can be used for prognostication as well as suggestion of further follow up. Ultrasound is the imaging modality of choice to assess fetal development. It is readily available on widespread scale to assess for various abnormalities that can occur during pregnancy. Parameters used to assess fetal lung maturity on ultrasound include lung to head ratio as well as the observed/expected lung to head ratio. However, ultrasound parameters can be subjective, have inter- and intra-observer variability and depend highly on the imaging technique and quality. The advent of ultrafast MRI sequences expanded its use in fetal imaging offering an alternative to ultrasound. It is generally used as a problem-solving tool due its excellent soft tissue resolution. Two parameters are gaining acceptance as means to assess fetal lung development on MRI: lung volume measurements and lung/liver signal intensity ratio. Our exhibit aims at familiarizing pediatric radiologists with parameters used to assess lung development on both ultrasound and MRI. Read More

Authors:  Aboughalia Hassan , Dighe Manjiri

Keywords:  Lung maturity, Fetal Imaging

Vansyckel Arielle,  Brown Brandon

Final Pr. ID: Poster #: EDU-016

Midface anomalies in the fetus can present with a range of severity and corresponding neonatal morbidity, on a spectrum from cosmetic disturbance to airway obstruction. Immediate postpartum complications include life-threatening hypoxia and feeding disturbances. These anomalies not only present immediate difficulties but also often exist within a variety of syndromes with long-term consequences, affecting various organ systems. While screening ultrasound frequently can identify deviations from normal, fetal MRI may provide more detailed and high-resolution imaging for the characterization of midface anomalies and associated prenatal disease.
The identification of facial anomalies in utero should prompt further investigation for associated abnormalities, and will also allow for improved prenatal counseling, which can prepare parents for the immediate postpartum management including surgical planning and resource allocation. It furthermore provides a foundation to shape family expectations and to begin to frame psychosocial support, allowing parents to engage mentally and emotionally with the medical and surgical course that awaits.

In this presentation, we highlight the normal fetal midface as seen on MRI at various stages of development, and outline a systematic approach for evaluation of the fetal midface structures. Recognition of this typical appearance will allow the radiologist to identify the range of possible abnormalities that can occur and which can shape prognosis when properly identified. Various cases of midface anomalies will be reviewed and linked to their clinical significance, including cases with associated intracranial anomalies and deficiencies in swallowing and respiration. Read More

Authors:  Vansyckel Arielle , Brown Brandon

Keywords:  Fetal imaging, Midface anomaly

Creeden Sean,  Dahmoush Hisham,  Guimaraes Carolina

Final Pr. ID: Poster #: EDU-079

Brainstem anomalies pose a diagnostic challenge for trainees to even the most advanced in their practice. Our exhibit aims to provide a comprehensive review of these rare disorders which are being diagnosed earlier and more frequently utilizing advanced imaging and genetic sequencing techniques. Representative images of these disorders with key distinguishing features will be presented. Familiarity with these conditions will benefit practicing radiologists, radiologists in training, and our clinical colleagues. Read More

Authors:  Creeden Sean , Dahmoush Hisham , Guimaraes Carolina

Keywords:  fetal imaging, neuroradiology, MRI