MR-Compatible Incubators for Imaging Ill Newborns

A recently designed magnetic resonance (MR)-compatible incubator allows radiologists to efficiently and safely obtain high quality diagnostic images of sick infants, according to a new study.

"MR imaging is the most desirable imaging test for many newborns because there is no exposure to radiation,” remarked the study's lead author, Stefan Blumi, Ph.D., associate professor at the Saban Research Institute at Childrens Hospital (Los Angeles, CA, USA). "However, many sick newborns cannot be studied by MR, even when clinically indicated, because of concerns for their safety during transport and during the procedure.”

Diagnostic imaging of newborns is complex and challenging, involving monitoring circulation and maintaining constant control of temperature, airflow, and humidity. Therefore, a small number of newborns are scanned with MRI, which is, for many instances, the most accurate noninvasive diagnostic modality without the risks of radiation associated with radiographs and computed tomography (CT). In the study, published in the May 2004 issue of the journal Radiology, investigators performed 13 MRI studies on neonates to assess an MR-compatible incubator with air temperature and humidity regulation and integrated radiofrequency coils. Image quality was superior to images retrieved with conventional MR equipment. There were no complications, vital signs stayed with normal ranges, and there was little axillary temperature fluctuation.

The specially designed small coils used with the incubator lessen scan time and improve image resolution. Usually, MRI scans of babies are conducted with the manufacturer's one-size-fits-all coils created for adult heads.

"We found that image quality was far superior to images obtained with standard MR equipment,” Dr. Blumi stated. "We believe that MR-compatible incubators are beneficial for babies and will be cost-efficient in the long run.” Dr. Blumi hopes that this new technology will allow more MRI studies of newborns, which will result in earlier and improved diagnosis, and help in early intervention and treatment. He said that the incubator's safe environment will also enable more neonatal clinical studies.




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Saban Research Institute at Childrens Hospital