Pediatric Thoracic MRI: Safer, Sharper and Smarter Diagnostics

Pediatric thoracic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has evolved into a valuable diagnostic modality that offers high-resolution morphological and functional assessment. While conventional radiography and computed tomography (CT) remain standard, their radiation exposure poses significant risks in children requiring repeated imaging. Technological innovations have addressed prior MRI limitations such as low lung proton density and motion artifacts, expanding its role in pediatric thoracic imaging.

A review of the recent literature was performed, focusing on technical advancements, key MRI sequences and clinical applications in pediatric thoracic imaging. Emphasis was placed on ultrashort echo time (UTE), phase-resolved functional lung (PREFUL) MRI, hyperpolarized xenon-129 MRI, radial imaging, compressed sensing, parallel imaging and respiratory gating techniques.

Modern MRI sequences provide both detailed anatomic visualization and quantitative functional assessment of the pediatric thorax. UTE and PREFUL enable evaluation of lung parenchyma, ventilation, and perfusion, while hyperpolarized gas imaging offers high-resolution functional mapping. Radial, compressed sensing and parallel imaging reduce motion artifacts and acquisition times, enhancing feasibility in uncooperative children. Clinical indications include assessment of congenital malformations, chronic lung disease like cystic fibrosis, infectious and inflammatory disorders, tumors and selected traumatic injuries.

Recent technical advances have established pediatric thoracic MRI as a versatile, patient-friendly alternative, as well as a complementary method to CT in selected clinical scenarios. Ongoing developments in acquisition speed, motion compensation and functional imaging are expected to further improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility, supporting broader adoption in routine pediatric thoracic evaluation.