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Updated: Jun 2, 2026
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Quantification of Levator Ani Hiatus Enlargement by Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Males and Females with Pelvic Organ Prolapse
Published on: April 17, 2019
Penile biometry on prenatal magnetic resonance imaging
1Department of Radiology, Division of Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology, Medical University Vienna, Vienna, Austria. stefan.nemec@meduniwien.ac.at
Summary
Prenatal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a reference range for fetal penile length. Outer penile length measured by MRI aligns with ultrasound, aiding in the identification of genital anomalies.
Area of Science:
- Medical Imaging
- Fetal Development
- Prenatal Diagnosis
Background:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is increasingly used alongside ultrasonography for prenatal diagnosis.
- Establishing normative data for fetal anatomical measurements is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish normal penile growth parameters using prenatal MRI.
- To provide reference ranges for fetal penile length to aid in the detection of genital anomalies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of MRI scans from 194 male fetuses (18-34 weeks' gestation).
- Measurement of outer penile length (glans tip to scrotal edge) and total penile length (glans tip to symphyseal border) on sagittal T2-weighted sequences.
- Statistical analysis including correlation, regression, and t-tests to compare MRI data with published ultrasound findings.
Main Results:
- Regression equations were derived for outer and total penile length as a function of gestational age.
- Outer penile length on MRI showed no significant difference compared to ultrasound measurements.
- Total penile length measured on MRI was significantly greater than that measured by ultrasound (P < 0.001).
Conclusions:
- Prenatal MRI provides a valuable reference range for fetal penile length.
- Outer penile length on MRI is comparable to ultrasound measurements.
- MRI-derived total penile length offers additional information for identifying potential genital anomalies.
