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

Nov 12, 2024 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

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.

　　"Da Pai Qi" refers to the "Da Pai Qi" examination, and "Si Wei" refers to the four-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound. Under normal circumstances, pregnant women can choose between the "Da Pai Qi" examination and the four-dimensional ultrasound.

　　Both "Da Pai Qi" and four-dimensional ultrasound are important prenatal examinations used to evaluate fetal health. They have some overlap in terms of examination content and purpose and both offer high accuracy. Therefore, pregnant women can choose one of these examinations during pregnancy.

　　The "Da Pai Qi" examination, also known as systematic B-ultrasound anomaly screening, is usually performed between 20 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. It involves a comprehensive examination of the fetus to detect severe abnormalities such as anencephaly, single ventricle heart, and spina bifida. This examination primarily provides static two-dimensional images, based on which doctors analyze and determine whether the fetus has any abnormalities.

　　The four-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound, on the other hand, is a more advanced diagnostic tool typically performed between 22 and 28 weeks of pregnancy. It allows observation of the fetus's growth and development from multiple perspectives and angles. It provides real-time dynamic images of fetal activity and can accurately detect very subtle abnormalities such as cleft lip and palate.

　　Pregnant women should maintain a positive and optimistic mindset, follow a balanced diet, engage in moderate exercise, undergo regular prenatal checkups, and follow the professional advice of their doctors to ensure the health of both mother and baby.

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What should I do if I keep failing the four-dimensional ultrasound?

The inability to obtain clear four-dimensional ultrasound images can often be improved by adjusting the examination timing, engaging in moderate activity, replenishing energy, relaxing mentally, or changing body positions during the scan. In most cases, this issue is related to unfavorable fetal positioning and does not require excessive anxiety. However, if multiple attempts still fail to produce adequate images, or if other abnormal indicators are present, it is recommended to seek timely medical advice from a professional doctor.

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What should I do if a butterfly vertebra is detected during a four-dimensional ultrasound?

Butterfly vertebra is a relatively rare spinal developmental anomaly, typically referring to incomplete fusion of the middle portion of the vertebral body, resulting in a shape resembling butterfly wings. When a butterfly vertebra is detected during a four-dimensional examination, timely specialist consultation is required, along with further diagnostic tests, assessment of spinal development, formulation of an individualized intervention plan, and regular follow-up monitoring. If associated with other severe malformations, additional evaluation is necessary.

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Is it necessary to have an echocardiogram if the four-dimensional ultrasound shows no abnormalities?

Even if the 4D ultrasound shows no abnormalities, it is still recommended to undergo a fetal echocardiogram according to standard prenatal guidelines. The two examinations focus on different aspects: 4D ultrasound emphasizes overall fetal structural screening, while fetal echocardiography focuses on detailed cardiac anatomy and functional assessment, enabling the detection of heart problems that may be missed by 4D ultrasound. If there are high-risk factors or abnormal findings during pregnancy, timely medical consultation and further evaluation are advised.

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Are color Doppler ultrasound and four-dimensional ultrasound the same?

Color Doppler ultrasound and four-dimensional color ultrasound both belong to ultrasound imaging techniques. Their basic principle involves transmitting ultrasound waves into the body and receiving the reflected signals to form images for observing internal structures and blood flow conditions. However, color Doppler ultrasound is primarily used for displaying two-dimensional images and provides static two-dimensional image information, which is suitable for most clinical diagnostic needs.