MR imaging of newborns by using an MR-compatible incubator with integrated radiofrequency coils: initial experience

To meet the needs of term and preterm neonates undergoing magnetic resonance (MR) imaging, an MR-compatible incubator with air, temperature, and humidity regulators and integrated radiofrequency coils was evaluated. Nine brain, two cardiac, and two pelvic examinations were performed by using a 1.5-T clinical MR imaging unit. The axillary temperature of the newborns varied by less than 0.8 degrees C, their vital signs remained stable, and no complications were encountered. The diagnostic quality of images obtained with the MR-compatible incubator was superior to that of images obtained with the standard MR imaging equipment. The use of an MR-compatible incubator for examinations of ill neonates is feasible and safe and yields excellent MR images.