What is a nuchal scan?

Nuchal scanning is ultrasound or sonographic prenatal screening scanning, performed by a doctor during 11-13. weeks of pregnancy. After 13 weeks and six days it is no longer a possibility. Sometimes it is also called screening of nuchal transparency (NT) or nuchal fold. Nuchal scanning is often a non -invasive first step in finding abnormalities. If nuchal scanning shows a certain cause of concern, a more invasive procedure may be carried out, such as amniocentesis or sampling of chorionic vill (CVS). Amniocentesis will take place after 15 to 18 weeks. As always, it is best to allow enough time to complete any further testing. Highjej-normal fluid accumulation in this space may be a sign that the child is exposed to a higher risk of birth with Down syndrome, also called syndrome. The length of the crown on the rum of the child is measured to be certain with accurate age in weeks. The child's age is then compared with the thickness of the nuchal fold that provides more accurate measurements.

The mother's age is also taken into account because the risk that a child with Down syndrome increases with the age of the mother. At the age of 20, your chances of a child with Down syndrome are approximately 1 in 1,000, but at the age of 35 your risk is approximately 1 of 400. The probability still increases around 35 years.

scan does not determine whether the child has Down syndrome; This means only a higher risk factor that can then be monitored with diagnostic testing. Nuchal scanning is accurate in the detection of potentiabnormality Al 70-80% of the time, but of course there is always the possibility of false positives and false negatives. Any concerns you might have should always be discussed with your doctor.

Because scanning of nuchal transparency is a relatively new procedure that requires new equipment and new training, it may be more difficult to find a doctor who is able to perform ultrasound. Your doctor should be able to direct you to a medical pennyRa that is capable of helping. Another option is to contact your insurance company because they will be able to advise you specifically.