Improving fetal MRI imaging techniques for better diagnosis

The Value of Advanced Imaging Sequences for Fetal MRI in Clinical Practice

NA · Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust · NCT03302663

This study is testing new ways to take better pictures of unborn babies using MRI to help doctors see their hearts and bones more clearly.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment150 (estimated)
SexFemale
SponsorSheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (other)
Locations1 site (Sheffield, South Yorkshire)
Trial IDNCT03302663 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to enhance the diagnostic accuracy of fetal MRI by exploring advanced imaging sequences and comparing the effectiveness of 3T versus 1.5T MRI machines. It will investigate the potential of fetal MRI to provide detailed images of the fetal heart and bones, which are currently challenging to assess. The study is divided into four sections, focusing on improving existing imaging techniques and evaluating new sequences that could be integrated into clinical practice. By addressing these questions, the research seeks to establish the clinical value of advanced fetal MRI imaging.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include pregnant women attending a fetal medicine clinic who are considering an MRI scan for their pregnancy management.

Not a fit: Patients with contraindications to MRI or severe claustrophobia may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved diagnostic capabilities for fetal conditions, enhancing prenatal care and management.

How similar studies have performed: While fetal MRI is an established technique, this study's focus on advanced imaging sequences and the use of 3T MRI represents a novel approach that has not been extensively tested in the UK.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant women who are attending the fetal medicine clinic and are asked to consider an MRI scan to provide information to help manage the current pregnancy.
* Pregnant women requesting a termination of pregnancy who will allow us to do fetal MRI at 3T prior to the termination.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Contraindication to MRI
* Severe claustrophobia

Where this trial is running

Sheffield, South Yorkshire

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Fetal Conditions, Fetal bone heart abnormality

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.