MRI-Based Quantitative Analysis of Placenta and Fetal Brain in SGA Pregnancies: Feasibility Insights

Motivation: Understanding placental dysfunction's role in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetal neurodevelopment is crucial; this study seeks to fill that gap, enhancing prenatal care. Goal(s): The primary goal is to assess whether MRI can effectively quantify the relationship between placental function and fetal brain development in SGA pregnancies. Approach: The study used IVIM, and T2* mapping to evaluate placental and fetal brain development, applying Pearson correlation and t tests for comparative analysis. Results: Significant differences in placental perfusion and cortical properties between control and SGA groups were reported, demonstrating the feasibility of using MRI for in-utero assessment. Impact: This study’s MRI approach could change prenatal care, allowing earlier detection of small-for-gestational age–related brain development issues, prompting interventions, and guiding research into neurodevelopmental support for affected neonates, with potential long-term cognitive benefits.