Anomaly Scan
An anomaly scan in Nagpur is also termed as the level II ultrasound or anatomy scan. It is considered to be one of the most detailed ultrasound examinations, conducted between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation, for evaluation and examination of fetal anatomy and any potential anomalies.
An anomaly scan, within the path of prenatal care, is that milestone where information concerning the health and development of the fetus is ascertained. Though considered a critical scan, it must be noted that no test can ensure that an anomaly will not occur until the delivery since some anomalies may present after birth.
Anomaly Scan
Purpose:
Anomaly scan will make a thorough assessment of the fetal anatomy or search for congenital anomalies. The scan will monitor fetal growth and development.
Duration:
– 30 – 60 minutes
Type of scan:
– Transabdominal ultrasound
– Probe on your abdomen
– You may also be offered a transvaginal ultrasound (probe inside your vagina)
– The sonographer or radiologist will examine the anatomy of your fetus, document its growth, and take images
– The sonographer will explain what images mean and the results
What is Assessed:
– Fetal anatomy
– Head and brain
– Face and neck
– Heart and lungs
– Abdomen and gastrointestinal tract
– Limbs and bony skeleton
– Genitalia
– Growth and development
– Fetal size and weight
– Placental evaluation and amniotic fluid analysis
Anomalies Detected:
– Structural anomalies
– Group of congenital anomalies
– Growth restrictions or anomalies
Recommendations
Normal finding: continue follow-up and observation
Abnormal finding: further diagnostic evaluation and consultation with a specialist (maternal-fetal medicine, genetics).
What Is a Anomaly Scan?
The anomaly scan is sometimes also known as a level II ultrasound or anatomy scan. The check-up is mainly performed to study the fetal anatomy and detect possible abnormalities or congenital anomalies throughout the pregnancy.
This scan is usually conducted between 18-22 weeks of gestation. It basically serves the purposes of:
1. To evaluate the fetal anatomy which include the head, brain, heart, lungs, abdomen, limbs and genitalia.
2. Check for structural abnormality or congenital anomaly such as cardiac defects, neural tube anomalies, and limb abnormalities.
3. Measure the size and weight of the fetus to determine the advanced state of growth and development.
4. Measure the placenta and the amniotic fluid.
The anomaly scan is useful in:
1. Confirmin the existence of possible health issues in the baby.
2. Providing parents a chance to view further tests or consult with experts if necessary.
3. Providing peace of mind and reassurance to the would-be mother.
The scan is a very important milestone for prenatal care; however, all anomalies cannot be detected, and some may become evident after birth.
Purpose of the Anomaly Scan:
- Assess fetal development: To ensure that the baby is growing normally and all major organs are developing as expected.
- Check for structural abnormalities: The scan helps identify conditions such as:
- Spina bifida (neural tube defects).
- Cleft lip or palate.
- Heart defects.
- Limb abnormalities.
- Kidney and bladder issues.
- Check for soft markers of chromosomal abnormalities: These are subtle signs that could indicate the possibility of conditions like Down syndrome.
- Examine the placenta: To check its location, which is crucial for identifying conditions like placenta previa.
- Amniotic fluid: The amount of amniotic fluid around the baby is assessed to ensure it’s within a healthy range.
- Multiple pregnancies: If the mother is carrying twins or more, the scan monitors the growth and development of each baby.
- Check fetal heartbeat: Ensuring the heart is functioning properly and the blood flow to and from the heart is normal.
What the Anomaly Scan Checks:
- Head and brain: Checking the shape of the baby’s head and brain structure.
- Spine: Ensuring the spine is straight and properly formed.
- Face: Looking for any abnormalities like a cleft lip.
- Heart: Examining the heart chambers and major blood vessels to detect congenital heart problems.
- Abdomen: Checking the stomach, kidneys, and bladder for proper development.
- Arms and legs: Assessing limbs to ensure they are the right size and shape.
- Placenta: Determining its position and ensuring it is functioning properly.
What procedures Anomaly Scan?
The procedures for an Anomaly Scan or Anatomy Scan, otherwise called Level II Ultrasound include:
1. Preparation:
– Preparation for the test is minimal
– Bring in a full bladder if requested
2. Transabdominal Ultrasound:
– In preparation for this procedure lie down on your back with your abdomen exposed
– A probe or transducer is applied on your abdomen
– Sometgimes gel or oil is applied to your abdomen to improve resolution.
3. Transvaginal Ultrasound (if necessary)
– The probe and transducer is placed inside the vagina
– More detailed images of the fetal anatomy
4. Imaging:
– The sonographer will move the probe to take images from different angles.
– Images are displayed on the monitor for review
5. Evaluation:
– The sonographer or radiologist interprets the images and measurements.
– They check on the anatomy as well as the growth of the fetus
6. Anomalies Detection
– Any anomaly is noted, and you will be discussed the results by your doctor.
7. Reporting:
– A report is prepared that makes a statement concerning the findings and recommendations.
8. Post-Procedure:
– There is no special care after scanning; thus, intraoperative immediate post is to resume normal activities.
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