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| Ultrasound scans offer a non-invasive, accurate diagnostic tool for assessing a pregnancy, checking for any problems, and obtaining information about the fetus. An ultrasound exam uses high frequency sound waves to scan a woman’s abdomen and pelvic cavity, creating a picture (sonogram) of the baby and placenta. It does not use X-rays or other types of radiation that could harm a fetus, and may be used as early as the fifth week of pregnancy. |
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New software and machinery developed by the UCSD School of Medicine enhances sonogram imagery, which enables medical professionals, as well as patients, to see and analyze complete, three-dimensional (3-D) pictures of a fetus. We also have the capability to perform 4-D ultrasound, which allows moving 3-D images.
Scans may be performed in the first trimester to:
- Confirm a normal pregnancy
- Assess the baby's age
- Rule out problems, such as ectopic pregnancies or potential for miscarriage
- Assess the baby's heart rate
- Identify multiple pregnancies
Scans may be performed during the second or third trimester to:
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Assess the size, growth, age and sometimes gender of the fetus
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Detect any birth defects
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Determine the position of the fetus, umbilical cord and placenta
About 3-D Ultrasound
Three dimensional ultrasound has revolutionized ultrasound imaging in obstetrics. This technique allows the technician to capture multiple two-dimensional images, then combine them to create a three-dimensional view with added depth and detail. These images can be more closely reviewed than traditional two-dimensional images, which means we are better able to assess both normal and abnormal fetuses.
Viewing the 3-D image is unlike the family two-dimensional "snowy" ultrasound photos, as the pictures generated are much clearer. With 3-D you can see the baby's skin as well as the shape of the nose, mouth, etc. Using 3-D imaging is extremely helpful when evaluating fetal anomalies including cleft lip and palate, ear and brain anomalies, spine anomalies and abnormal limbs, including clubfeet. We are also evaluating its use in diagnosing heart abnormalities.
We have also found 3D imaging to be very helpful with maternal fetal bonding, as parents are actually able to see, in real time, what their baby looks like. This can be especially comforting to those with infertility or who have had previous pregnancy losses.
About 4-D Ultrasound
Four dimensional ultrasound is 3-D ultrasound with the element of real time added. This means that with 4-D ultrasound, you can observe moving images of the fetus. Although 4-D ultrasound provides lower resolution images than 3-D, it is often used when we are unable to acquire clear 3-D photographs because the fetus is moving around too much.
All of our ultrasound systems at the Fetal Center are state-of-the-art, and able to perform both 3D and 4D imaging. We use it on a routine basis to help the sonographers and physicians perform more thorough ultrasound exams.
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