Is there a difference between a major anomaly scan and a 4D ultrasound?

Sep 29, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

There is a difference between the detailed anomaly scan and 4D ultrasound. The detailed anomaly scan, also known as a systematic fetal ultrasound examination, is an important assessment performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. 4D ultrasound adds the dimension of time to 3D ultrasound, enabling dynamic, three-dimensional images. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, eating a light diet, and keeping a positive mindset contribute to maternal well-being.

Generally speaking, there is a difference between the detailed anomaly scan and 4D ultrasound. If any discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly. The specific analysis is as follows:

The detailed anomaly scan, also known as a systematic fetal ultrasound examination, is an important assessment performed during the second trimester of pregnancy. Its primary purpose is to detect structural abnormalities in the fetus, including potential defects in organs such as the heart, brain, spine, and limbs. This scan mainly relies on detailed analysis of two-dimensional images, examining fetal anatomy through multiple cross-sectional views. In contrast, 4D ultrasound adds the dimension of time to 3D imaging, enabling dynamic, real-time three-dimensional visualization. Besides assessing fetal health, 4D ultrasound focuses more on observing fetal movements, such as facial expressions and limb motions, and is often used to help parents visualize the baby's appearance.

Before undergoing any prenatal examination, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional to ensure the safety and effectiveness of the procedure. Maintaining healthy lifestyle habits, eating a light and balanced diet, and keeping a positive mindset can contribute significantly to maternal well-being.

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What dimension of ultrasound is the "major anomaly scan"?

In general, the detailed anomaly scan can be performed using two-dimensional, three-dimensional, or four-dimensional ultrasound. The full name of this scan is "mid-trimester fetal ultrasound screening for major anomalies," which refers to an ultrasound examination conducted during the middle stage of pregnancy. The optimal time for mid-trimester anomaly screening is between 18 and 24 weeks of gestation, as this period is best suited for evaluating fetal anatomy and detecting structural abnormalities.

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Is the major anomaly scan classified as level two or level three?

Major anomaly screening generally falls under Level 3 prenatal screening. It primarily refers to a four-dimensional color ultrasound examination performed between 22 and 28 weeks of pregnancy to determine whether fetal abnormalities are present. This examination allows for a clear assessment of whether the fetus's limbs, body, and internal organs show any abnormalities. During the 4D ultrasound, the movements of the fetus within the uterine cavity can be directly observed on an electronic screen.

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Can a detailed anomaly scan detect toxoplasmosis infection?

In general, major anomaly screening cannot detect toxoplasmosis infection. Major anomaly screening refers to a series of examinations and screening methods used to comprehensively evaluate the physical condition and structural development of the fetus, in order to identify potential congenital abnormalities and malformations. These examinations include ultrasound scans, blood tests, and other imaging studies, aiming to detect and assess fetal developmental abnormalities as early as possible.

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Does the major anomaly scan include an examination of the reproductive system?

Anomaly scan is a routine prenatal screening examination primarily used to assess fetal development and rule out potential congenital abnormalities. The anomaly scan is usually performed between the 18th and 20th weeks of pregnancy, using ultrasound imaging to observe the fetus's organs and structures. During the anomaly scan, the doctor thoroughly examines various fetal organs and systems, including the reproductive system.

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

4D ultrasound and anomaly scan (detailed structural scan) each have their strengths in fetal examination: 4D ultrasound is better for assessing the fetal heart, while the anomaly scan is superior for detecting overall fetal developmental abnormalities. 4D ultrasound is primarily used to check for congenital heart defects, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions such as fetal rheumatic heart disease and tetralogy of Fallot. It provides a clearer, three-dimensional visualization of the fetal heart's thickness, shape, and size.

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Can I choose between a major anomaly scan and a four-dimensional ultrasound?

Under normal circumstances, pregnant women can choose between a detailed anomaly scan (Big Anomaly Scan) and a four-dimensional ultrasound (4D ultrasound). Both the Big Anomaly Scan and 4D ultrasound are important prenatal examinations used to assess fetal health. They have overlapping aspects in terms of examination content and purpose, and both offer high accuracy. Therefore, pregnant women can choose one of these examinations during their pregnancy. It is also important for pregnant women to maintain a positive and optimistic mindset in daily life and undergo regular prenatal checkups.

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Does a major anomaly scan check the fetus's fingers and toes?

If the fetus is in an optimal position during the examination, with arms and legs naturally extended and not obstructing the view, and if there is sufficient amniotic fluid providing good acoustic transmission for ultrasound, the doctor can clearly observe via ultrasound whether the number of fetal fingers and toes is normal and whether there are any obvious abnormalities (such as polydactyly or oligodactyly), and record relevant findings to ensure major structural anomalies are ruled out.

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Do I need to have both the major anomaly scan and the 4D ultrasound?

Anomaly scan is a prenatal ultrasound examination used to assess the risk of fetal structural and chromosomal abnormalities. Four-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound is performed to observe whether there are abnormalities in the fetal facial features, nervous system, digestive system, and other areas. Whether both the anomaly scan and four-dimensional ultrasound are necessary depends on the individual circumstances of the pregnant woman. Prior to the examinations, medical guidance should be followed to ensure accurate and reliable results.

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