Real-time virtual sonography using MRI and ultrasound fusion imaging in the evaluation of CNS anomalies

Objective Over the last years prenatal ultrasound has experienced the benefits of high resolution probes and the use of transvaginal ultrasound to facilitate the difficult diagnosis of central nervous system anomalies. In addition fetal MRI has become a part of a complementary tool in establishing and fine tuning the diagnosis and prognosis. Both techniques deliver their maximal potential in the hands of clinical experts. Unfortunately the experts for fetal ultrasound and fetal MRI are most of the time not the same person. Combination of ultrasound and MRI could provide the benefits from both techniques. The MRI and ultrasound fusion technology has been introduced into medicine and has been succesfull to diagnose and treat tumors. The technology provides synchronization of MRI and ultrasound images. Only one paper adressed the potential of this technique in prenatal diagnosis. AIM The aim of this study is to evaluate the additional value of real-time virtual sonography in central nervous system anomalies and to look for the gestational age on the feasibility. Does the fusion imaging technique performed by a fetal medicine specialist provide more information than the fetal ultrasound only and is the additional information gained by the fusion technique superior to that found by the fetal MRI specialists?.