Improving fetal screening using advanced MRI technology

Improved Fetal Screening using 0.55T MRI

NIH-funded research Children's Hospital of Los Angeles · NIH-11130816

This study is looking to improve how we check on babies during pregnancy for moms who have trouble getting clear ultrasound pictures, especially those who might be at higher risk or come from underserved communities, by using a special type of MRI that is safer and easier to access.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionChildren's Hospital of Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11130816 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to enhance fetal screening for mothers who have difficulty obtaining clear ultrasound images due to various factors like obesity or low amniotic fluid. By utilizing a 0.55 Tesla MRI, the study seeks to provide a safer and more accessible imaging option for high-risk pregnancies. The approach focuses on improving the diagnosis of congenital anomalies, which can lead to better pregnancy management and outcomes. This method is particularly beneficial for women from underserved populations who may face barriers to traditional imaging techniques.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are pregnant women with high-risk factors such as obesity, oligohydramnios, or those who have had difficulty with standard ultrasound imaging.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those with normal ultrasound imaging results may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier and more accurate detection of fetal abnormalities, ultimately improving neonatal outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that advanced MRI techniques can improve fetal imaging outcomes, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.