Placental morphologic and functional imaging in high-risk pregnancies

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Medical Imaging
• Fetal Medicine

Background:

• The placenta is crucial for fetal growth and development.
• Advances in ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have enhanced the understanding of placental morphology.
• Morphological abnormalities are clinically significant, as seen in placenta accreta/percreta spectrum disorders.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on placental imaging techniques.
• To discuss the clinical value of placental imaging in high-risk pregnancies.
• To highlight the role of functional imaging in diagnosing placental conditions.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature on placental imaging modalities.
• Focus on ultrasound (including Doppler) and MRI techniques.
• Analysis of clinical applications and diagnostic value in high-risk pregnancies.

Main Results:

• Improved imaging techniques offer detailed insights into placental structure and function.
• Doppler ultrasound provides essential information on placental perfusion.
• Imaging is vital for diagnosing conditions like placenta accreta/percreta and assessing fetal well-being.

Conclusions:

• Placental imaging plays a critical role in managing high-risk pregnancies.
• Functional imaging, especially Doppler ultrasound, is indispensable for clinical diagnosis.
• Continued advancements in imaging promise further improvements in prenatal care and outcomes.