What is the purpose of a first-trimester fetal ultrasound scan? In general, the main goal of a fetal ultrasound scan is to provide accurate information which will facilitate the delivery of optimized antenatal care with the best possible outcomes for mother and fetus. In early pregnancy, it is important to confirm viability, establish gestational age accurately, determine the number of fetuses and, in the presence of a multiple pregnancy, assess chorionicity and amnionicity. Towards the end of the first trimester, the scan also offers an opportunity to detect gross fetal abnormalities and, in health systems that offer first-trimester aneuploidy screening, measure the nuchal translucency thickness (NT). It is acknowledged, however, that many gross malformations may develop later in pregnancy or may not be detected even with appropriate equipment and in the most experienced of hands.
Posted on: Mon, 12 Jan 2015 02:04:52 +0000
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