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Virtual reality images could spot abnormalities early in pregnancy. And they’re really cool

THE FIRST photos expectant parents show off to family and friends—ultrasound images of a growing fetus in its earliest days—are often underwhelming. Families long to see something more lifelike. And soon that may be possible.

Researchers at Clinica de Diagnóstico por Imagem in Rio de Janeiro can produce three-dimensional images of a fetus, umbilical cord and placenta using MRIS and ultrasound. With an Oculus Rift 2 virtual reality headset, parents can see their child in the womb before it enters the real world.

The 3-D models might prompt conversations about family resemblance before birth, but, more important, they could help diagnose structural abnormalities as early as the first trimester of life.

“We believe that these images will help facilitate a multidisciplinary discussion about some pathologies, in addition to bringing a new experience for parents,” says Dr. Heron Werner, an expert in fetal medicine and leader of the study.

With the headset on, it’s possible to see the respiratory tract of a fetus and any potentially life-threatening, abnormal masses that could block its airway. Eventually, the technology could go further, providing 3-D views of vital organs, too.

Werner, who presented his findings at the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America in November, has used the technology to produce models of 10 infants in utero, including some with congenital abnormalities.

Dr. Beth M. Kline-fath, chair of the fetal imaging committee for the Society of Pediatric Radiology, says the models can help guide physicians monitor pregnancies where the infant has anomalies of the face or mouth, such as large lesions, that make it difficult to breathe at birth. “Having a three-dimensional image could be helpful for planning at delivery to get a tube in the airway for support,” she says.

And helpful for the newborn as well.