THE ROLE OF 2D ULTRASOUND IN DETECTION OF CNS ANOMALIES

Abstract

The main purpose of prenatal diagnosis is to gather genetic, anatomical, biochemical and physiological information
about the fetus to detect potential abnormalities that may have impacts both during the fetal period and after birth. Thus,
we can provide families with information, genetic counseling, and/or therapeutic alternatives for any anomalies detected. (1)
Detection rate of congenital anomalies is about 28% in private practice and hospitals, 60 to 80% in Ob/Gyn's
ultrasound labs.
(2-4) While congenital defects constitute 3% of all births, monogenic disorders and chromosomal syndromes
constitute 1.4% and 0.6% of all births respectively.
(5)
During the last 25 years, the development of increasingly sophisticated equipments (digital techniques, grey
scales, color Doppler and 3D and 4D sonography) enabled the diagnosis of a growing number of malformations so that it is
now possible to diagnose about 80% of congenital abnormalities with reliable structural images.(6-9)
No doubt that ultrasound provides many clinical advantages. The Cochrane database confirms that ultrasound
enables the earlier detection of fetal malformations.(7,10) Parents seek reassurance about the absence of fetal congenital
anomalies and overall fetal health. Therefore, people view routine ultrasound as a part of obstetrical care, capable of filling
important gaps by delivering much key information for improving obstetrical practice. (11)Fetal anomalies screening (FAS)
requires higher education and qualifications than obstetrical ultrasound.(12)In most European countries approximately 98%
of pregnant women are examined by ultrasound, frequently two to three times (usually once per trimester).