Pregnancy NT Scan (level 2 ) Ultrasound Scan

What Makes the Level 2 NT Scan Unique

• Higher detail: Uses advanced transducers and settings for clearer images of tiny fetal structures.
• More parameters: Adds nasal bone, heart valves, and blood-flow studies beyond routine scans.
• Risk calculation: Feeds findings into software that pairs ultrasound data with blood tests for precise risk scores.

How It Differs From Basic Ultrasound

Definition and Purpose

A non-invasive, low-risk ultrasound performed between 11 and 14 weeks to:

• Evaluate the risk of Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
• Screen for early signs of congenital heart defects and skeletal issues.
• Confirm gestational age and viability.

Role of Nuchal Translucency Measurement

• Normal range: <3 mm at 11–14 weeks.
• Increased thickness: May indicate higher chromosomal or cardiac risk, prompting further tests like NIPT or CVS.

Trans-Abdominal Approach

• Most common: Probe moved across the abdomen.
• Prep: Drink 500 ml water 45 min before; full bladder lifts uterus for clearer view.

Trans-Vaginal Approach (If Indicated)

• When needed: Maternal obesity, retroverted uterus, or early gestation.
• Benefits: Higher-resolution images closer to the fetus.

• Nuchal translucency thickness – primary marker for chromosomal risk.
• Nasal bone presence – absence linked to Down syndrome.
• Crown-rump length (CRL) – confirms exact gestational age.
• Ductus venosus flow – abnormal waveforms suggest cardiac stress.
• Tricuspid regurgitation – leaky heart valve may indicate aneuploidy.

• Early detection of Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau syndrome.
• Structural anomaly screening – early hints of heart, brain, or limb defects.
• Multiple pregnancy assessment – confirms chorionicity in twins or triplets.

Ideal Gestational Age

• Window: 11 weeks 0 days – 13 weeks 6 days.
• Crown-rump length (CRL): 45–84 mm for standardized results.

High-Risk Indications & Universal Screening

• All pregnant women—regardless of age—benefit.
• Especially advised for:
• Maternal age ≥ 30 years.
• Family history of chromosomal disorders.
• Previous pregnancy with anomalies.
• Assisted reproductive technology (IVF) pregnancies.

• Non-invasive screening – no needles, no risk of miscarriage.
• Early reassurance – 85 % of women get low-risk results and peace of mind.
• Guides further diagnostic testing – CVS or amniocentesis offered only when necessary.

• Chromosomal abnormalities – Trisomies 21, 18, 13.
• Congenital heart defects – septal defects, valve anomalies.
• Skeletal dysplasia indicators – shortened long bones or abnormal skull shape.

• Hydration: Sip water steadily; stop 30 min before to achieve a comfortably full bladder.
• Clothing: Two-piece outfit for easy abdomen access.
• Fasting: Not required—enjoy your breakfast!

• Doctor’s requisition or direct self-referral accepted at Cadabams Diagnostics.
• LMP date or printed early dating scan report for accurate scheduling.

• Perfect window: 11 weeks 0 days – 13 weeks 6 days.
• Too early: CRL <45 mm, repeat scan needed.
• Too late: Over 14 weeks, nuchal translucency is no longer reliable.

• All pregnant women within the gestational window.
• Special consent: Guardian form required for mothers <18 years.

1. Check-in & history review – verify dates, allergies, previous pregnancies.
2. Scan duration – 15–30 minutes.
3. Image acquisition sequence – standardized planes captured for audit and reporting.
4. Instant preliminary discussion – sonographer explains key findings before you leave.

• Full bladder vs. empty bladder – follow SMS instructions from Cadabams.
• Report symptoms – inform staff of any vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain immediately.

Safety Profile of Ultrasound

• Zero radiation: Uses high-frequency sound waves—safe for mother and baby.
• Decades of data: No evidence of harm in clinical studies.

False-Positive & False-Negative Rates

• False-positive: 5 %. A high NT does not always mean an affected baby.
• False-negative: Up to 15 %. Normal NT lowers but doesn’t eliminate risk.