Which is better: 4D ultrasound or major anomaly scan?

Generally speaking, for fetal heart examination, four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound is better, while for detecting fetal developmental abnormalities, the "major anomaly scan" is superior. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Four-dimensional ultrasound is better

Four-dimensional ultrasound is primarily used to check whether the fetal heart has any structural abnormalities. It can help diagnose conditions such as fetal rheumatic heart disease and tetralogy of Fallot. It provides a clearer, three-dimensional visualization of the thickness, shape, and size of the fetal heart, making it more effective for cardiac evaluation. However, if the mother has a thick layer of abdominal fat, this may affect the quality of the 4D imaging, resulting in less clear images.

2. Major anomaly scan is better

The major anomaly scan mainly uses ultrasound equipment to examine whether various fetal organs and tissues have developed normally, including structures such as the neck, brain, skull, and spine. In addition, it allows assessment of the mother's cervix and uterine condition, providing valuable information for determining the mode of delivery. Therefore, for evaluating fetal developmental anomalies, the major anomaly scan is more appropriate.

It is recommended that pregnant women undergo regular prenatal checkups and choose the appropriate examination method based on their individual circumstances. If any discomfort or abnormal symptoms occur, medical attention should be sought promptly.