All pregnancies can be at risk for complications. According to The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, birth defects affect one in every 33 babies born in the United States each year. Several factors can put a woman and her baby at a higher risk — including the mother’s age, current medical condition, personal and family health history, and multiple births.
Fetal Diagnostic Center features the most innovative tools available for diagnosing, monitoring and treating complex pregnancies including real-time, 4D ultrasound capabilities. Our ultrasound services include:
Viability Ultrasound
- Determine due date and number of fetuses
- If a multiple gestation, determine the number of fetuses and chorionicity (number of placentas)
First Trimester Nuchal Translucency Screening
- Performed 11-14 weeks gestation
- Evaluate for chromosome abnormalities such as Down Syndrome
- Early screen for heart abnormalities
- First trimester evaluation of fetal anatomy
Detailed Fetal Anatomic Survey
- Performed at 18-20 weeks gestation
- Best opportunity to evaluate physical development of the fetus for assessment of birth defects
- Genetic sonogram- evaluation of physical variations to fetal development that may increase the likelihood of a genetic diagnosis
- Evaluate growth
- Check for other prenatal structures including the placenta, umbilical cord and amniotic fluid levels
Prenatal Diagnosis
- Chorionic Villus Sampling (10-13 weeks gestation)
- Amniocentesis (15-22 weeks gestation)
- Percutaneous Umbilical Blood Sampling (PUBS- 18+ weeks gestation)
Fetal Echocardiogram
Specialized ultrasound to measure the fetal heart for pregnancies demonstrated to be at increased risk of heart defects, generally done at 22-24 weeks gestation.
Doppler Studies
Ultrasound technique that allows the providers to see and evaluate blood flow through various aspects of the fetus, including heart, brain, umbilical cord, and other organs. It may also be used to evaluate maternal structures such as the uterus.
Non-Stress Testing/Biophysical Profiles
- Third trimester evaluations of fetal well being
- Biophysical Profile (BPP) by measures four ultrasound criteria: fetal breathing, fluid level, movement and tone. BPP is generally paired with non-stress testing on alternating days, often referred to twice weekly testing or antenatal testing
- Non-Stress Test (NST) measures fetal heart rate in response to fetal movement
Growth Ultrasound
This third trimester ultrasound evaluates the fetal rate of growth. It may be done on a routine basis or may per performed in pregnancies at increased risk of growth delay (IUGR) due to fetal or maternal indications.
For more information about our obstetric ultrasound services, or to schedule an appointment, contact us.
