Recent studies found that chromosomal abnormalities occur much
more frequently than is generally appreciated. It is estimated that
approximately one of 200 newborn infants has some form of
chromosomal abnormality.
Intrauterine detection of congenital anomalies is of paramount
importance for the family and the community. A thickened nuchal
translucency (NT) is a powerful marker for chromosomal abnormalities
and is also associated with many structural fetal defects. The excellent
track record of the first-trimester nuchal evaluation in detecting fetuses
with Down syndrome and other defects has cemented this biometric
assessment as a standard part of the first trimester sonogram.
Nuchal translucency measurement should follow strict guidelines
and holding ongoing audit.
Summary
The major advantages of 3D ultrasound are the ability to
obtain ultrasound section which is impossible to be seen on a
routine scan, and the ability to perform accurate volume
measurements. In addition, 3D anatomical reconstruction of the
organs of interest is possible
The current study used a novel technique of measuring the
NV by VOCAL aiming to determine whether nuchal volume can
replace nuchal translucency thickness in first trimester screening of
chromosomal defects using 3D ultrasound.
This prospective study was held at Obstetrics and Gynecology
Department, Benha University Hospital, from February, 2010 till
November, 2010 on 100 consequent uncomplicated, singleton
pregnant females who underwent NT scanning at 11–13 + 6
weeks of gestation by 2D and 3D ultrasound.
The present study found that mean the NT measured by 2D
was 1.3mm + 0.5. Also, the study found no statistically significant
difference between the measurements of CRL, BPD and NT by
2D and those measured on the stored 3D volume data.
Suggesting that 3D ultrasound can replace conventional 2D
scanning.
This study found that the mean NV was 0.66cc. NV was found
to be correlated to gestational age (11-13+6 weeks) and NT.
The study concluded that NV can replace NT in first trimester
chromosomal scan.
More studies including larger number of patients are needed
to generate a normal standard curve. |
