The first fetal functional MRI studies used standard 2D multi-slice Echo Planar Imaging acquisitions, relying on post-processing for addressing motion-related effects. To reduce motion sensitivity, the use of Echo Volumar Imaging (EVI) combined with localized excitation has previously been proposed, but the very heterogeneous maternal environment renders selective excitation extremely challenging. We explored a more robust method combining EVI with inner volume imaging. By obtaining selective excitation from a spin-echo, sensitivity to field inhomogeneity is decreased, and spurious contributions from maternal tissue can be avoided. The method was tested in an adult and demonstrated in fetal imaging in utero.
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