What fetal issues can be detected by a 4D ultrasound?

May 13, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, four-dimensional B-ultrasound can detect fetal structural abnormalities, growth and development, heart, urinary system, amniotic fluid, and other issues. Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal checkups at the hospital to monitor their own health status and fetal development in a timely manner. Additionally, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with moderate exercise and a balanced diet during pregnancy contributes to overall maternal health.

Generally, 4D ultrasound can detect fetal structural abnormalities, growth and development, heart, urinary system, amniotic fluid, and other issues. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Structural Abnormalities

4D ultrasound can examine various organs and parts of the fetus, such as the brain, spine, and limbs, to detect structural abnormalities like hydrocephalus, heart defects, and spina bifida.

2. Growth and Development

By measuring indicators such as the fetal biparietal diameter, abdominal circumference, and femur length, the growth and development status of the fetus can be assessed to determine if intrauterine growth restriction or other issues exist.

3. Heart

The structure and function of the heart are evaluated, including the atria, ventricles, and atrioventricular septum, to screen for congenital heart diseases such as ventricular septal defect, atrial septal defect, and tetralogy of Fallot.

4. Urinary System

The urinary system includes the kidneys, ureters, and bladder. The ultrasound can detect urinary tract malformations such as hydronephrosis, polycystic kidney disease, and urethral obstruction, and provide information on the development of the urinary system, aiding in the assessment of fetal kidney function and prognosis.

5. Amniotic Fluid

4D ultrasound measures the depth of amniotic fluid and the amniotic fluid index to determine if the volume of amniotic fluid is normal. Additionally, it can detect abnormal echoes in the amniotic fluid, such as cloudy amniotic fluid, which may indicate fetal hypoxia or infection in utero.

Pregnant women are advised to attend regular prenatal check-ups at the hospital to stay informed about their own health and the development of the fetus. At the same time, maintaining a healthy lifestyle with moderate exercise and a balanced diet helps support maternal health during pregnancy.

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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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What is the difference between Down syndrome screening and four-dimensional ultrasound?

Down syndrome screening, or Down syndrome test, and four-dimensional ultrasound (4D ultrasound) differ in several aspects, including examination purpose, method, timing, content, and the significance of results. When undergoing Down syndrome screening and 4D ultrasound, it is important to follow the schedule recommended by the physician. If abnormal results are found, further examinations should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.

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Can Down syndrome be detected through four-dimensional ultrasound?

A child with Down syndrome refers to a child with Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), and "four-dimensional ultrasound" refers to four-dimensional color ultrasound. Performing a four-dimensional color ultrasound may not definitively detect Down syndrome, although certain characteristic features might be observed to some extent, a definitive diagnosis cannot be made. Some children with Down syndrome exhibit明显 facial abnormalities, such as wide-set eyes and a flattened nasal bridge, or may have structural abnormalities such as heart defects or intestinal atresia.

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What can be seen in a 4D color ultrasound for twins?

Four-dimensional color ultrasound (4D ultrasound) is a common prenatal examination method. In general, a 4D ultrasound for twins can show the number and position of the fetuses, fetal structure, fetal movement, amniotic fluid volume, and fetal growth and development. Pregnant women are advised to undergo regular prenatal checkups, which help detect fetal abnormalities early and maintain the health of both the mother and the fetus.