[Magnetic resonance imaging of the pediatric chest].

BACKGROUND

Magnetic resonance imagining (MRI) has become a well-established radiation-free alternative to computed tomography (CT) in pediatric imaging but is still rarely used for lung evaluation due to technical limitations such as low proton density and motion artifacts.

OBJECTIVE

To demonstrate how pediatric lung MRI can be performed reliably despite its known limitations and how recent technical innovations enhance its diagnostic potential.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Based on clinical experience from a university pediatric radiology center, a standardized thoracic MRI protocol for children is presented. It includes respiratory-triggered T2-weighted sequences and, when available, ultra-short TE (UTE) sequences. Emerging techniques such as ventilation-perfusion MRI and real-time MRI are also discussed.

RESULTS

Most clinical questions can be addressed using respiratory-triggered T2-weighted sequences. UTE sequences improve visualization of aerated lung parenchyma and low-proton lesions. Real-time MRI significantly reduces motion artifacts and enables functional assessment, especially in unsedated infants and toddlers. Total exam time is 15-20 min.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric lung MRI is a reliable, radiation-free alternative to CT in many cases. New sequence techniques like UTE and real-time MRI considerably expand its diagnostic range. Wider adoption could meaningfully reduce radiation exposure in children with chronic lung disease.