The application of three-dimensional ultrasound to nuchal translucency measurement in early pregnancy (10-14 weeks): A preliminary study

Abstract

Objectives: The aims of this prospective screening study were to calculate the success rate and to assess the intra-operator variability of fetal nuchal translucency measurement by using three-dimensional ultrasound. Subjects and methods: Eighty-six women, each with a singleton pregnancy undergoing routine nuchal translucency measurement between 10 weeks and 14 weeks plus 6 days gestational age. Three-dimensional transvaginal sonography was performed. A new method of nuchal translucency measurement was applied from three volumetric data sets using four steps. Results: In all cases good sagittal views of the fetus were obtained, the fetal skin could be distinguised from the amnion and the nuchal translucency thickness could be measured. The new measurement procedure could be standardized. The overall time required for the examination was 5 min. The procedure caused no discomfort to the woman and was easily performed by the examiner. Intra-operator variability was low (P = 0.862). Conclusion: Three-dimensional ultrasound is a useful and easily applicable tool for nuchal translucency measurement during early pregnancy (10-14 weeks plus 6 days). Its advantages still need further evaluation.