CPT® Code 74712

Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, fetal, including placental and maternal pelvic imaging when performed; single or first gestation

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a specialized imaging technique utilized to assess potential disorders or anomalies in a developing fetus that may have been identified through ultrasound examinations. This procedure is specifically conducted during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, as the size of the fetus in the first trimester is typically too small for effective imaging. MRI is favored for its ability to produce highly detailed images compared to ultrasound, allowing for a comprehensive evaluation of fetal abnormalities, particularly those affecting critical areas such as the brain, chest, and abdomen. The safety profile of MRI is another significant advantage, as it does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it a non-invasive and safer alternative to other imaging modalities. During the MRI procedure, the pregnant patient is positioned comfortably on a motorized exam table that moves into a large MRI scanner, which houses a powerful magnet. The imaging process involves the transmission of radio waves from a scanner within the magnetic field, which causes the hydrogen atoms in the body to align in a specific manner. As these nuclei return to their normal alignment, they emit radiofrequency signals that are captured and processed by a computer, resulting in high-resolution, three-dimensional images of the fetus. The entire procedure typically lasts between 30 to 40 minutes, and a microphone within the scanner allows for communication between the mother and the technologist throughout the imaging process. Importantly, extensive research has indicated that the normal application of the magnetic field and radio waves during MRI poses no adverse effects to the mother or the fetus.