Ultrasound scans are a way of assessing the wellbeing of the baby. Although most babies are normal, all women - whatever their age - have a small chance of delivering a baby with a physical and/or mental handicap. Ultrasound scans can help pick up some of these problems antenatally. Some physical abnormalities (such as Spina Bifida) may be picked up by scan at 22 weeks. In addition ultrasound may sometimes show features in a baby, which do not necessarily cause problems themselves, but may be linked to an underlying cause (such as Down’s syndrome). [ Home ] [ Search ] [ Table of Contents ] [ Scan Enquiries ] 4D Scans are really 3D Scans taken over time. When the 3D Scans are viewed together rapidly in real-time, they create dramatic life-like views of your baby moving inside you Measurement of the fetal head, abdomen and thigh bone are undertaken to monitor your baby's growth and estimate the fetal weight.4D Scans are really 3D Scans taken over time. When the 3D Scans are viewed together rapidly in real-time, they create dramatic life-like moving video views of your baby inside you. - You Can save this clip to your compter - Just right click Ultrasound scans during pregnancy measuring nuchal translucency also spelled nucal translucency, are a way of assessing the well-being of the baby. Although most babies are normal, all women - whatever their age - have a small chance of delivering a baby with a physical and/or mental handicap.

Fetal anomaly

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Fetal anomaly scan: 21 - 23 weeks (Second trimester)

The fetus will now measure about 10 inches (25cms) in length and the purpose of this scan is to examine the anatomy, ensure normal growth and check the placental position. Uterine blood flow studies can be performed when indicated. Cervical length can be assessed to evaluate the risk of pre-term delivery

Fetal anomaly scan: 21 - 23 weeks

 

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What do we look for?

The structures examined include the brain, spine, heart, kidneys and limbs. Sometimes the fetus is in a position which makes scanning difficult and it is quite normal to be asked to return for a second appointment to complete the examination. Generally the image is not as clear in larger women and again a second appointment may be necessary.

Approximately 90% of significant abnormalities will be detected.

What if a problem is detected ?

Not all abnormalities are life threatening.

For example, sometimes there is an excess of urine within the fetal kidneys, which can be monitored by further scans. Most kidneys return to normal by the end of the pregnancy, but early detection reduces the incidence of childhood kidney infections and obstructions. If a more serious abnormality is suspected, a second opinion at a specialist centre may be arranged to discuss the best management of the pregnancy.

Remember that if there are any major problems we should be able to pick them up, but it is important to realise that not all abnormalities can be diagnosed on a 22 week scan.

 
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Director: Sally Hill MSc  07811 695651 / Tues am & Thurs am Call 01883 734021  enquiries@diagnosticultrasound.org.uk