Definition

Ultrasound is a technique that uses sound waves to visualize organs within the human body. The technique is popular in pregnancy because it allows the doctor to gain heath information about the baby without any risk to the mother or the baby.

Who has a targeted ultrasound?

Targeted ultrasound is offered to women who may be at a higher-than-average risk of having a baby with some type of birth defect or complication. Some of the many reasons that a woman may need a targeted ultrasound include:

• Health problems in the mother (diabetes, high blood pressure)
• Mothers over 35 years of age
• Mothers exposed to chemicals or medications during pregnancy
• A family history of a birth defect
• An abnormal blood screen
• Previous abnormalities seen on ultrasound

What is targeted ultrasound?

There are many uses for ultrasound during pregnancy. It may be used during early pregnancy to confirm a pregnancy, verify the due date, and as a genetic screen known as first trimester screen.

A targeted ultrasound is done later in pregnancy. It is used to check the growth and development of the baby, check for birth defects and screen for certain types of genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome.

When is the targeted ultrasound preformed?

Targeted ultrasound is usually performed around the 20th week of the pregnancy.

What information can the patient learn about their baby form targeted ultrasound?

Targeted ultrasound checks the overall growth and development of a baby. It is also used to screen for birth defects and genetic conditions. The sonographer will look at many details of the baby's organs including the face, ears, brain, heart, stomach, spine, kidneys, bladder, bones, hands and feet.

What kind of birth defects can ultrasound detect?

An ultrasound can often detect birth defects such as cleft lip, open neural tube defects, major heart defects and hydrocephaly. It may not detect certain types of birth defects.

What kinds of genetic disorders does ultrasound screen?

An ultrasound is used as a genetic screen for Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and trisomy 13. The doctor uses ultrasound to identify any birth defects or clues that are more commonly seen in babies with any of these genetic conditions.

How accurate is targeted ultrasound?

Under ideal conditions, an ultrasound can be very accurate. However, like most medical tests, its accuracy is not perfect and is dependent on the following factors:

• The quality of the ultrasound equipment
• The amount of fluid around the baby
• The age and size of your baby

Even the most experienced doctors using the best equipment can miss some birth defects. Therefore, a normal ultrasound, although reassuring, is not considered a guarantee for a healthy baby.

When will the patient find out the results of the targeted ultrasound?

The patient will find out the results from the ultrasound on the same day. Occasionally, the doctor may consult with other specialists before giving the final results.

What if the doctor finds a problem?

The doctor and a genetic counselor will meet with the patient right away if a birth defect is identified or if there is any suspicion that the baby has a genetic condition. The patient will be told as much as possible about the concern or condition and what it could mean for the baby's health.

Testing options, such as amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling, maternal serum screening, future ultrasounds, may be presented to the patient. In some instances the patient may be faced with decisions about choosing to deliver at a large medical center rather than at their local hospital. In any case, the patient will be well informed and have the support and guidance of their health care providers.

Can the patient decide not to have the targeted ultrasound?

Yes. A genetic counselor will thoroughly explain and discuss the risks and benefits of targeted ultrasound with the patient. The patient then can decide whether or not she would like to have this test.

1/20/2009