This presentation will cover the normal anatomy, variants and physiology of the human placenta, as well as magnetic resonance imaging techniques for the evaluation of the placenta, and the spectrum of magnetic resonance findings in abnormal placental implantation. The implications for the mother and foetus will be discussed.
Abnormal placental implantation is a challenging pathology to manage in the antenatal period. Although ultrasound represents the main imaging modality, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has an important and increasing role in the management of abnormal placental implantation.
In order to provide a safe and accurate report to the obstetrician, it is important to understand normal anatomy and variants, risk factors for abnormal placental implantation and the consequences of abnormal findings.
In this educational review, normal anatomy and variants, placental physiology, abnormal findings on MRI and implications for management are discussed.
1) Normal placental anatomy and physiology including normal variants.
2) Risk factors for abnormal placental implantation.
3) MRI sequences for the evaluation of abnormal placental implantation.
4) The role of magnetic resonance imaging in the evaluation of abnormal placental implantation.
5) MRI findings in abnormal placental implantation, covering placenta praevia as well as placenta accreta, increta and percreta.
6) Discussion of implications for management.
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