Extra MRI scan can spot baby brain problems

Researchers have highlighted the benefits of offering some women in pregnancy more detailed MRI scans to help spot brain defects in the developing baby.

Published in the Lancet, the study on 570 women showed that doctors were able to make a much better diagnosis using MRI scans, rather than the common ultrasound scans are already that look inside the womb and check that the baby is growing properly.

Pregnant women are offered an ultrasound scan at 20 weeks that can spot abnormalities in the brain, with the method detecting three in every 1,000 pregnancies.

The study analysed the impact of using MRI scans to confirm any diagnoses, showing that combining an ultrasound with an MRI increased a correct diagnosis from 68 per cent to 93 per cent.

Tested across 16 centres in the UK, approximately 95 per cent of mothers-to-be said the scan was helpful and would have it again if there were concerns on the ultrasound.

A failure in the brain development can result in miscarriage or still birth, with couples generally offered counselling and some choosing to have an abortion. The study showed that the number of abortions increased from 25 per cent with just the ultrasound to make the decision to 36 per cent with the extra MRI scan.

Although possibly considered controversial, the researchers highlight that the study ‘is really about informing pregnant women and their families to ensure they have the correct information when they're going through what can be a traumatic time’.

Prof Paul Griffiths, from the University of Sheffield, said: "Based on our findings, we propose that an MRI scan should be given in any pregnancy where the foetus may have a suspect brain abnormality."