CLEFT PALATE: THE ROLE OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING WITH 3D RECONSTRUCTION IN PRENATAL ASSESSMENT
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.56238/arev7n11-220Keywords:
Cleft Palate, Fetal MRI, 3D Reconstruction, Ultrasound, Prenatal AssessmentAbstract
Considering that ultrasound may miss the palate, especially in suspected isolated cleft palate, fetal magnetic resonance imaging with 3D reconstruction has emerged to refine diagnosis and guide prenatal care. This study aims to appraise the clinical utility of MRI-based 3D models for confirmation, anatomical characterization, and perinatal planning of orofacial clefts. We conducted an integrative review of studies published from 2020 to 2025 in PubMed, SciELO, and Google Scholar, extracting outcomes on diagnostic accuracy, visualization of hard/soft palate, counseling, and management changes. The evidence indicates that MRI complements ultrasound by defining defect extent and palatal involvement, increases detection of isolated cleft palate, enhances family counseling through 3D renderings, and supports decisions on place of delivery, neonatal airway preparedness, and referral to specialized teams. These findings suggest MRI with 3D reconstruction is a valuable adjunct in equivocal cases or when ultrasound is limited, provided standardized protocols and clear indications are adopted.
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