ABSTRACT
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was first used in pregnancy soon after it was developed, and those early imaging attempts paid particular attention to the placenta. MRI has a role in the armamentarium of tools used in the diagnosis and management of placenta accreta although its precise application remains controversial. Obstetric MRI has evolved over the years with different techniques being proposed and adopted depending on the type of investigation being performed. MRI is generally considered to be safe in pregnancy. Numerous authors have described MRI features, which suggest possible placenta accreta. MRI evaluation of placental disorders is difficult and requires specialized training and experience. Several studies examined the performance of MRI versus ultrasound as the primary diagnostic modality for diagnosing placenta accreta. Bleeding in pregnancy should be evaluated initially with ultrasound. Patients at increased risk of placenta accreta should initially be screened using ultrasound.
