Summary of Key Points Moderate to severe congenital heart disease (CHD) occurs in approximately 6 per 1000 live births. The incidence of CHD is much higher in the fetal population, estimated to be at least 15 per 1000. The incidence…
Summary of Key Points Normal fetal lungs appear homogeneously echogenic on ultrasound surrounding the heart with a cardiothoracic ratio that remains constant through the second and third trimesters. Pulmonary hypoplasia can be primary or secondary and unilateral or bilateral. Congenital…
Summary of Key Points Neural tube defects (NTDs) are a common congenital anomaly with clinically important associated morbidity and mortality rates. Most open NTDs will have associated intracranial abnormalities, most commonly Chiari II malformation, detected by sonography. Although much less…
Summary of Key Points Protocol-based ultrasound carefully performed by a knowledgeable and experienced examiner following established guidelines is very sensitive in evaluating the central nervous system (CNS). Ventriculomegaly can be due to many underlying conditions, including obstruction, destruction, and dysmorphism,…
Summary Key Points Ear and eye anomalies often accompany abnormalities of the skull and face. Abnormalities of fetal head size and shape may be associated with various syndromes and chromosomal anomalies. Hypoplastic or absent nasal bone may be seen in…
Summary of Key Points Multifetal pregnancies have higher rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality than singletons. Chorionicity is the major determining feature for the inherent unique complications faced by multiple gestations. Fetal growth differences and congenital malformations are increased in…
Summary of Key Points Screening for aneuploidy using the nuchal translucency (NT) measurement should be performed by a credentialed provider participating in an ongoing quality-monitoring program. In chromosomally normal fetuses with an increased NT, normal anatomy and no identifiable genetic…
Summary of Key Points First-trimester development follows a predictable pattern on first-trimester ultrasound. Some ultrasound findings are definitive for early pregnancy failure, whereas others are suggestive and require follow-up. Ultrasound is vital in the diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy in typical…
Summary of Key Points Obstetric ultrasound should only be performed with a clear indication, with calibrated machines, and by proficient professionals. Know the specific machine being used (what causes increase in output power). Keep the examination as short as possible…
Summary of Key Points Ultrasound allows for accurate prediction of gestational age. The appropriate training and skills are necessary for safely performing and accurately interpreting obstetric ultrasound There are many options for screening pregnant women, most of which include ultrasound.…