Fetal Neurosonogram in Pune:
An Overview Fetal neurosonography, a specialised ultrasound technique, is an invaluable tool for assessing the developing brain of a fetus. Usually carried out during the second trimester (18 to 24 weeks of gestation), these scans allow visualisation of various intricacies of the fetal brain: ventricles, cerebellum, corpus callosum, and spine, among other regions. This detailed imaging helps in identifying any structural abnormalities that could affect the baby’s neurological development.
Why is a Fetal Neurosonogram Important?
The fetal brain undergoes rapid and complex development. The routine ultrasound study can provide an overall assessment of the well-being of the fetus. However, it may not be sensitive enough to detect all subtle early prenatal neurological problems. On the other hand, a fetal neurosonogram is specifically designed to evaluate the brain’s anatomy and identify abnormalities that might not be visible on a standard ultrasound.
Early detection of any neurological abnormality is important since this will enable parents and the healthcare provider to decide on the continuation of the pregnancy with full information. Sometimes, timely interventions or making arrangements for postnatal treatment can make a vast difference in the outcomes for the baby. Furthermore, knowledge regarding what the abnormalities are can help parents prepare themselves emotionally and otherwise for the birth and care of a child who may have some special needs.
Clinical Applications of Fetal Neurosonogram
A fetal neurosonogram is essential for various clinical scenarios:
- High-risk pregnancies: For women with a history of preterm labour, fetal growth restriction, or maternal infections, fetal neurosonography can assess the risk of brain abnormalities.
- Genetic disorders: In cases of suspected genetic conditions associated with brain abnormalities, fetal neurosonography can provide diagnostic information.
- Maternal infections: Some maternal infections can impact fetal brain development, such as the Zika virus and cytomegalovirus. Fetal neurosonography can detect any associated potential complications.
- Prenatal screening: As part of routine prenatal care, fetal neurosonography may be included to identify potential issues early in pregnancy.
- Follow-up examinations: For fetuses with identified brain abnormalities, fetal neurosonography can monitor the progression of the condition and guide management decisions.
Conditions That Can Be Detected by Fetal Neurosonogram
A fetal neurosonogram can detect a variety of conditions that affect the brain and spine. Some of the most common include:
- Ventriculomegaly: It is a condition that involves an increase in the size of brain ventricles, which might indicate an associated problem like hydrocephalus.
- Spina Bifida: It is a birth defect where the spine and spinal cord don’t form properly. This can cause potential issues related to mobility and others.
- Holoprosencephaly: It is a rare disorder where the brain does not divide into two hemispheres. This can lead to very severe developmental problems.
- Agenesis of the Corpus Callosum: A condition that occurs when the structure connecting both sides of the brain (the corpus callosum) does not develop properly.
- Prenatal screening: Some standard prenatal care might involve fetal neurosonography to detect any possible issues early in pregnancy.
- Follow-up examinations: For fetuses with identified brain abnormalities, a fetal neurosonogram can monitor the progression of the condition and guide management decisions.
The Procedure: What to Expect
A fetal neurosonogram involves a regular ultrasound study done by an expert fetal medicine specialist. The expectant mother lies down on her back, and a gel is applied to her abdomen to help the ultrasound probe transmit sound waves effectively. The ultrasound probe is then moved across the abdomen to take images of the baby’s brain and spine in detail. For better visualisation, a transvaginal scan may be necessary in most of the cases.
The actual process lasts around 30 to 45 minutes depending on the baby’s position and the quality of images taken. Occasionally, if the baby is not in a good position, the mother may be asked to move around or come back to have an ultrasound done later.
After the Scan
Interpreting the results of a fetal neurosonogram requires specialized knowledge. Fetal medicine experts, carefully analyze the images to identify any abnormalities. They then discuss the findings with the parents, explaining the implications and outlining the next steps, which may include further testing, monitoring, or planning for treatment after birth.
Get Fetal Neurosonogram in Pune Under the Guidance of Dr Tejas Tamhane
A fetal neurosonogram is a powerful tool in prenatal care, offering a detailed look at the developing brain and helping to ensure that any potential issues are detected and addressed early. For expectant parents, understanding the significance of this procedure can provide peace of mind and confidence in the care their baby is receiving. As part of a comprehensive fetal medicine program, a fetal neurosonogram plays a vital role in safeguarding the health and future of the unborn child. As technology continues to evolve, fetal neurosonography will undoubtedly play an even more crucial role in prenatal care.
If you or someone you know is looking to get fetal neurosonogram in Pune, then do consult Dr Tejas Tamhane, the best fetal medicine specialist in Pune. With years of expertise and experience in the field, Dr Tamhane can help you and your baby throughout the pregnancy journey. For any queries, questions or concerns that you may have, reach out to Precious Clinic for Advanced Fetal Medicine.