[Fetal MR: evaluation of patient's experiences and practical implications]

Several studies have evaluated the experience of patients undergoing obstetrical US. No similar study evaluated the impact of fetal MR on patients. Our hypothesis was that the fetal MR is more anxiety-producing than fetal US. The goal was to acquire insight to improve the experience for patients.

Prospective dual-center study of 100 patients who answered a questionnaire validated by radiologists, obstetricians and psychologists. In one of the two centers, po sedation was routinely used in all patients. The questionnaires were qualitatively and quantitatively analyzed.

Results confirm the more stressful nature of MR compared to US (72%). One third of patients (34%) would have liked information about the procedure, diagnostic limitations, and mainly the impact on the fetus, especially with regards to noise. Most patients reported discomfort (duration, position) (82%) and stated that it would be preferable to be accompanied (83%). The perception of fetal movements by the mother was related to stress, noise and vibration of the MR examination.

MR increases the anxiety related to prenatal diagnosis by its setting and sometimes the lack of information, namely the fetal risk. It is important to maintain a dialogue between obstetricians and mothers from the indication to the acquisition of the MR. The diagnostic limitations of MR for prenatal diagnosis should be clearly stated. A discussion between the radiologist and mother after completion of the examination is desirable, if only to discuss the patient's or couple's comments.