CPT® Code 74713

Add-On Code

Magnetic resonance (eg, proton) imaging, fetal, including placental and maternal pelvic imaging when performed; each additional gestation (List separately in addition to code for primary procedure)

Fetal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a specialized imaging technique utilized to assess potential disorders or anomalies in a developing fetus, particularly when abnormalities are suspected based on ultrasound findings. This procedure is typically conducted during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, as the size of the fetus in the first trimester is too small for effective imaging. MRI is favored over other imaging modalities that utilize radiation due to its safety profile, making it a non-invasive and non-radiating option for evaluating fetal health. The process involves the use of a strong magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the fetus, placenta, and maternal pelvic structures when necessary. The patient lies comfortably on a motorized exam table that moves into a large MRI scanner, where the magnetic properties of hydrogen atoms in the body are manipulated to produce high-resolution, three-dimensional images. This imaging technique is particularly valuable for providing comprehensive insights into the development of critical structures such as the brain, chest, and abdomen of the fetus. The procedure typically lasts between 30 to 40 minutes, during which communication between the mother and the technologist is facilitated through a microphone within the scanner. Importantly, the normal application of the magnetic field and radio waves has not been associated with any adverse effects on the mother or fetus.