MRI of Placenta Accreta, Placenta Increta, and Placenta Percreta: Pearls and Pitfalls

AJR Am J Roentgenol. 2017 Jan;208(1):214-221. doi: 10.2214/AJR.16.16281. Epub 2016 Oct 20.

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to provide a primer for radiologists performing MRI for suspected placenta accreta, illustrating normal and abnormal findings and diagnostic pitfalls. Appropriate examination indications and recommendations for optimizing image acquisition and interpretation are summarized.

Conclusion: MRI increases the accuracy of the workup of high-risk patients and aids in multidisciplinary delivery planning to improve maternal outcome. Reader accuracy and confidence require adherence to examination performance, image interpretation criteria, and awareness of common pitfalls.

Keywords: MRI; abnormal placentation; placenta accreta; placenta increta; placenta percreta.

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms*
  • Diagnosis, Differential
  • Diagnostic Errors / prevention & control*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Image Enhancement / methods*
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging / methods*
  • Patient Positioning / methods*
  • Placenta Accreta / diagnostic imaging*
  • Pregnancy
  • Reproducibility of Results
  • Sensitivity and Specificity