The 11-14 Weeks Scan in Pune: An Overview
The 11-14 weeks scan, often called the first-trimester screening or nuchal translucency (NT) scan, is a critical component of prenatal care today. Conducted between 11 and 13 weeks and 6 days of gestation, this specialised ultrasound examination provides invaluable information about the developing fetus and the expectant mother’s health.
While many obstetric ultrasound examinations can be performed by general sonologist the 11-14 weeks scan demands the expertise of fetal medicine specialists, who have in-depth knowledge of fetal anatomy, development, and potential abnormalities. Their specialised skills are essential for accurately measuring the nuchal translucency, assessing other fetal markers, and interpreting the findings in the context of maternal factors.
Key Components of the 11-14 Weeks Scan
- Nuchal Translucency (NT) Measurement: NT is the thickness of fluid-filled space at the back of the fetal neck. Increased NT is a marker for chromosomal abnormalities like Down Syndrome, but remember that all babies have some nuchal lucency and this varies according to gestation. The NT is measured by the fetal medicine specialist who follows standardized protocols as established by Fetal Medicine Foundation, London, UK
- Fetal Anatomy Survey: It is NOT as exhaustive as the 18-21 weeks anomaly scan, yet it offers a rough anatomical evaluation of your baby at this stage in development. The specialist is also able to pick up on any major structural abnormalities, such as severe skeletal dysplasia or serious organ malformations at this early stage.
- Fetal Heart Rate: It is necessary to verify normal cardiac rhythm.
- Gestation Age: The specialist will measure how far along the pregnancy is by determining gestational age, which is important in calculating risk and therefore subsequent prenatal care.
- Placenta Location Assessment: This examination checks the location of the placenta to measure risks and issues such as Placenta Previa.
- Uterine artery Doppler study: This specific Doppler assessment gives us an idea about any possibility of developing future issues like PIH, IUGR and hence specific treatment options can be discussed with the patient to avoid the same.
Risk Assessment and Counselling:
After the scan, a risk for chromosomal abnormalities including Down Syndrome (DS) and Pre- eclampsia is calculated by combining the NT measurement, maternal age and other blood parameters. With this information in hand, the future parents are then presented with an explanation of these results and what those might mean for their baby.
If the risk assessment reveals an intermediate to high likelihood for chromosomal abnormalities, diagnostic testing may be recommended such as chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis.
The 11-14 Weeks Scan / NT scan in Pune – Reach Out to Dr Tejas Tamhane
Although the 11-14 weeks scan / NT scan is mainly done to screen for chromosomal abnormalities, it also identifies some other potential pregnancy complications. It is used to diagnose conditions such as structural fetal anomalies, and certain maternal conditions. If these issues are detected early, they can be managed and outcomes improved.
In conclusion, the 11-14 weeks scan / NT scan is a cornerstone of modern prenatal care. The expertise of a fetal medicine specialist is essential for maximizing the diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility of this examination. By providing accurate and timely information, the 11-14 weeks scan empowers expectant parents to make informed decisions about their pregnancy and the health of their baby.
If you or someone you know is looking to get the 11-14 weeks scan / NT scan in Pune, then schedule an appointment with Dr Tejas Tamhane, the best fetal medicine expert in Pune and get the best guidance and prenatal care for your baby.