Use of three dimensional ultrasound for nuchal translucency measurement in early pregnancy

ABSTRACT

To evaluate the role of three dimensional ultrasound in Nuchal translucency measurement in the first trimester. Prospective cross sectional study. Forty eight women pregnant in their first trimester were subjected to conventional and there dimensional ultrasound examination by two sonographers at a time using Vulson 730 machine. Scanning was saved and re-evaluated for nuchal translucency measurement. There was a good agreement between two and three dimensional altrasound. There was a positive correlation between nuchal thickness [NT] and crown rump length [CRI] [p<0.01]. There were negligible clinical differences in measurements of NT and CRL between the different observers. Only two cases had NT = 6 mm and both aborted. Nuchal translucency measurement is feasible, safe and accurate. This technique is potentially useful in fetuses that are not in all optimal position for standard 2D nuchal translucency measurement