Human birth observed in real-time open magnetic resonance imaging

Objective Knowledge about the mechanism of labor is based on assumptions and radiographic studies performed decades ago. The goal of this study was to describe the relationship between the fetus and the pelvis as the fetus travels through the birth canal, using an open magnetic resonance imaging (MR...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:American journal of obstetrics and gynecology 2012-06, Vol.206 (6), p.505.e1-505.e6
Main Authors: Bamberg, Christian, MD, Rademacher, Grit, Güttler, Felix, Teichgräber, Ulf, PhD, Cremer, Malte, MD, Bührer, Christoph, PhD, Spies, Claudia, PhD, Hinkson, Larry, MD, Henrich, Wolfgang, PhD, Kalache, Karim D., PhD, Dudenhausen, Joachim W., PhD
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Adult
Biological and medical sciences
delivery
Female
Gynecology. Andrology. Obstetrics
Humans
imaging
Infant, Newborn
Labor Stage, Second - physiology
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Male
mechanism of labor
Medical sciences
Obstetrics and Gynecology
Parturition - physiology
Pregnancy
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Summary:Objective Knowledge about the mechanism of labor is based on assumptions and radiographic studies performed decades ago. The goal of this study was to describe the relationship between the fetus and the pelvis as the fetus travels through the birth canal, using an open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. Study Design The design of the study used a real-time MRI series during delivery of the fetal head. Results Delivery occurred by progressive head extension. However, extension was a very late movement that was observed when the occiput was in close contact with the inferior margin of the symphysis pubis, occurring simultaneously with gliding downward of the fetal head. Conclusion This observational study shows, for the first time, that birth can be analyzed with real-time MRI. MRI technology allows assessment of maternal and fetal anatomy during labor and delivery.
ISSN:0002-9378
1097-6868
DOI:10.1016/j.ajog.2012.01.011