T2 Hyperintensity and ADC Values in Fetal Brain MRI following Prenatal Open Neural Tube Defect Repair

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: T2 hyperintensity on fetal brain MRI is frequently observed in fetuses with an open neural tube defect (ONTD) and may reflect edema, impaired CSF circulation, or altered brain maturation. By characterizing the diffusion of water molecules within brain tissue, DWI may help differentiate among these etiologies by assessing water diffusion as a marker of brain microstructure. Our aim was to investigate the relationship between brain T2-hyperintensity and ADC values in fetuses following prenatal ONTD repair. MATERIALS AND METHODS: value < .05 was considered significant. RESULTS: < .01). CONCLUSIONS: After prenatal ONTD repair, the presence of T2 hyperintensity was associated with lower ADC values in most examined brain regions, suggesting altered brain microstructure or delayed myelination.