Pregnancy Tiffa Scan - Twins - Level 2 Ultrasound Scan

Expecting twins is twice the joy—and twice the need for precision imaging. The Pregnancy TIFFA Scan – Twins Level 2 Ultrasound Scan offered at Cadabams Diagnostics is specifically designed to give your babies a detailed head-to-toe check-up while keeping you informed, reassured, and prepared.

Definition and Medical Terminology

• TIFFA stands for Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies.
• It is a Level 2 ultrasound, which means it uses advanced transducers and software to capture high-resolution images beyond routine dating scans.

Why Twins Need Specialized Imaging

• Two babies mean two sets of organs to examine in the same session.
• Each twin may lie in a different plane, requiring real-time adjustments by our experienced sonographers.
• Early detection of Twin-to-Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) or selective fetal growth restriction can be lifesaving. Key difference: Unlike a quick heartbeat confirmation scan, the TIFFA scan spends 30–45 minutes systematically evaluating every organ system in both babies.

• Transabdominal 2D/3D/4D ultrasound – primary imaging mode.
• Doppler assessment – checks blood flow between twins to rule out TTTS.
• Fetal echocardiography add-on – detailed heart scan when requested.

Anatomical Checklist

• Brain – ventricles, cerebellum, midline structures
• Spine – neural tube closure
• Heart – four chambers, outflow tracts, septa
• Kidneys – size, echogenicity, pelvis dilation
• Limbs – long bones, digits
• Face – lips, palate profile
• Diaphragm – integrity and movement

Biometric Measurements

Additional Checks

• Placental localization – placenta previa, velamentous cord
• Amniotic fluid index – polyhydramnios / oligohydramnios
• Cervical length – risk of preterm labor
• Umbilical and middle cerebral artery Doppler flows

• Detect structural birth defects early to plan surgery or delivery route.
• Monitor twin growth discordance (>20 % difference raises red flags).
• Rule out soft markers for chromosomal anomalies (e.g., echogenic bowel).

Ideal Gestational Age Window

• 18–22 weeks is the sweet spot: organs are large enough to see, yet amniotic fluid still provides good acoustic windows.

Indications

• All twin pregnancies regardless of risk level.
• Maternal age >30 years.
• Family history of congenital anomalies.
• Obstetrician referral after abnormal first-trimester screening.

• Early intervention planning – transfer to tertiary center if needed.
• Reassurance – 90 % of scans show normal findings.
• Delivery guidance – vaginal vs. cesarean based on placental site and fetal positions.

• Hydration: Drink 500 ml water 30 min prior unless told otherwise; a full bladder lifts the uterus for clearer images.
• Clothing: Wear a loose two-piece outfit for easy access to abdomen.
• Reports: Bring earlier scan printouts and recent blood test results.

• Valid doctor prescription.
• Completed maternal history form.
• Insurance pre-authorization (our front desk can help).

• Schedule between 18–22 weeks.
• Book early in pregnancy; twin scan slots fill fast.
• Follow-up scan at 26–28 weeks if initial views were suboptimal.

• All twin pregnancies automatically qualify.
• Singleton pregnancies with risk factors may also opt for TIFFA.

1. Check-in – ID verification ensures correct patient data.
2. Gel application – warm, hypoallergenic gel is used.
3. Imaging Twin A – systematic sweep from head to toe.
4. Imaging Twin B – same protocol, adjusting probe angle.
5. Real-time discussion – radiologist explains findings on screen.
6. Report – color printouts handed over same day; soft copy emailed within 2 hours.

• Inform staff of latex allergy for probe cover alternatives.
• Report vaginal bleeding or pain immediately.
• Skip caffeine 2 hours prior to reduce excessive fetal movement.

Tip: If one twin is lying face-down, our radiologist may ask you to gently shift position or schedule a short follow-up.