Weighing the Risks: A Clinical Evaluation of MRI Safety and Diagnostic Value During Pregnancy
Abstract: Background: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an important diagnostic modality during pregnancy because it provides detailed anatomical information without the use of ionizing radiation. Nevertheless, concerns regarding fetal exposure to static magnetic fields, radiofrequency energy, acoustic noise, and the use of contrast agents continue to influence clinical decision-making. Objective: To evaluate the safety and diagnostic value of MRI performed during pregnancy and to assess maternal and neonatal outcomes following MRI exposure. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted using records of 25 pregnant women who underwent MRI at Medanta - The Medicity, Gurugram, over a four-month period. Examinations were performed on 1.5-T and 3-T Siemens systems without gadolinium-based contrast. Gestational age, indication, MRI protocol, and pregnancy and neonatal outcomes were reviewed and summarized using descriptive statistics. Results: Mean maternal age was 28.1 ± 4.8 years (range 19-40) and mean gestational age at MRI was 22.6 ± 6.3 weeks. MRI was performed in the first trimester in 3 women (12%), second trimester in 14 (56%), and third trimester in 8 (32%). Indications were fetal in 11 cases (44%), maternal obstetric in 8 (32%), and maternal non-obstetric in 6 (24%). Twenty-four pregnancies (96%) resulted in live births; one neonatal death occurred in association with severe placental abruption and was not attributed to MRI exposure. Two neonates had transient complications (hypoxia and tachycardia) that resolved fully. No maternal or neonatal adverse outcome was identified as attributable to MRI. Conclusion: In this retrospective cohort, non-contrast MRI performed during pregnancy was not associated with an identified adverse maternal or neonatal outcome and provided clinically relevant diagnostic information across all trimesters. When clinically justified, MRI may be considered an important diagnostic option during pregnancy, with appropriate attention to scanning protocols and avoidance of unnecessary gadolinium exposure.
Keywords: Magnetic resonance imaging; pregnancy; fetal MRI; MRI safety; maternal imaging; neonatal outcome
How to Cite?: Shakir Mubarik Itoo, "Weighing the Risks: A Clinical Evaluation of MRI Safety and Diagnostic Value During Pregnancy", Volume 15 Issue 9, September 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1716-1719, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26925154327, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26925154327