Generative artificial intelligence for counseling of fetal malformations following ultrasound diagnosis

Abstract

To explore the potential role of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in enhancing patient counseling following prenatal ultrasound diagnosis of fetal malformations, with an emphasis on clinical utility, patient comprehension, and ethical implementation. The detection of fetal anomalies during the mid-trimester ultrasound is emotionally distressing for patients and presents significant challenges in communication and decision-making. Generative AI tools, such as GPT-4 and similar models, offer novel opportunities to support clinicians in delivering accurate, empathetic, and accessible counseling while preserving the physician's central role. We present a narrative review and applied framework illustrating how GenAI can assist obstetricians before, during, and after the fetal anomaly scan. Use cases include lay summaries, visual aids, anticipatory guidance, multilingual translation, and emotional support. Tables and sample prompts demonstrate practical applications across a range of anomalies.