Can a 4D color ultrasound detect cleft lip?

Under normal circumstances, four-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound can detect cleft lip. The detailed explanation is as follows:

Four-dimensional ultrasound examination is an important method for comprehensive prenatal anomaly screening and has good resolution for fetal facial abnormalities. During the examination, multi-planar and multi-angle imaging can relatively clearly display the structure of the fetal lips. If a cleft lip is present, the ultrasound image will show a disruption in the continuity of the lip, thereby enabling the detection of the cleft lip.

Although four-dimensional ultrasound has a certain detection rate for cleft lip, it cannot identify all cases of cleft lip. This may be related to multiple factors, such as fetal position, amount of amniotic fluid, and the experience and technical proficiency of the sonographer. If the fetal lips are obscured during the examination or if the cleft lip is mild, a missed diagnosis may occur. Additionally, severe cleft lip might require further confirmation through other imaging examinations.

When undergoing a four-dimensional color Doppler ultrasound examination, pregnant women should fully understand the purpose and limitations of the examination and make decisions under the guidance of a physician. If fetal cleft lip is detected during the four-dimensional ultrasound, pregnant women should promptly communicate with their physician to understand the severity of the cleft lip, subsequent treatment options, and prognosis, in order to make informed decisions.