F73New modes of capture by freehand three‐dimensional ultrasound in the prenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies

Abstract

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to see the contribution of three different modes of capture of data by the freehand three‐dimensional ultrasound (3D US) in the prenatal diagnosis of fetal anomalies.MethodWe studied a total of 34 pregnant women. In all of them a fetal anomaly was previously assessed by 2D US. Planar US probes and a 3D software (3D‐ViewTM) were used on a digital Gaia 8800 scanner. Three modes of data capture were employed: volume capture (to capture a volume), static capture (to capture motion; a combination of B‐mode and M‐mode), and free style capture (to capture a big region of interest; ROI), then the most suitable screen presentation was used according to the mode of capture.ResultsWe found a total of 41 anomalies on 34 fetuses which are: Heart (17), abdomen (8), central nervous system (6) and miscellaneous (10). We were able to see all anomalies previously detected by 2D US. By using volume capture and rendering image we were able to detect also anomalies of fingers and face, no previously detected by 2D. However volume capture was the most difficult mode to perform. Static capture was the most suitable to study fetal heart malformations (as A‐V canal) and arrhythmias. Free style capture give us a B‐mode digital video of the ROI (hydrocephalus, spina bifida, gastroschisis, omphalocele, adominal cysts, kidney malformations). Good pictures by using the last two modes of capture were easy to obtain. We also benefit of all the advantages of using digital technology, like to have the information as a virtual patient.ConclusionThe appropriate use of different modes of capture of data by free hand 3D US in combination with 2D US gives a new perspective of using this new technology in the diagnosis of fetal anomalies.