THE ROLE OF FETAL MAGNETIC RESONANCE IN THE MANAGEMENT OF CENTRAL NERVOUS SYSTEM MALFORMATIONS: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

The detection of congenital anomalies of the Central Nervous System, as well as any pathological process, can be managed more effectively when identified earlier. Fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) is a complementary imaging method to Ultrasound (US) during pregnancy, and it is up to the medical professional who conducts prenatal care to know how to assess the possibilities, advantages and disadvantages of its use. Thus, the authors' aim is to answer the following hypothesis: can Neonatal Magnetic Resonance Imaging be used during pregnancy as an effective and safe method for managing anomalies of the Central Nervous System? To this end, 10 articles published between 2001 and 2023 in the SciElo, PubMed and Science Direct databases were analyzed by means of an integrative review. After analyzing the results, it was concluded that MRI can be used in addition to US, to the detriment of other imaging methods, since there are reports of great specificity in detecting congenital anomalies in the early stages of pregnancy. This implies not only the possibility of early treatment, but also the monitoring and counseling of the family, in order to establish conditions for the creation and development of this life, or its interruption, in the cases provided for by law.Pertinent information was also highlighted regarding the proper preparation of pregnant women for this examination, so as not to harm the mother or the children.