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Fetal lip and primary palate: three-dimensional versus two-dimensional US
D D Johnson1, D H Pretorius, N E Budorick
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, Ste 634, PO Box 250619, Charleston, SC 29425, USA. johnsodo@musc.edu
Radiology
|September 30, 2000
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) ultrasonography (US) significantly improves prenatal diagnosis of facial clefting compared to two-dimensional (2D) US. 3D US offers better visualization of cleft lip and palate location and extent, aiding patient understanding.
Area of Science:
- Medical imaging
- Prenatal diagnosis
- Craniofacial abnormalities
Background:
- Facial clefting, including cleft lip and palate, is a common congenital anomaly.
- Accurate prenatal diagnosis is crucial for planning and management.
- Two-dimensional ultrasonography (2D US) has limitations in fully defining the extent and location of facial clefts.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare the efficacy of three-dimensional ultrasonography (3D US) versus 2D US in prenatal assessment of facial clefting.
- To evaluate the improvement in defining the location and extent of facial clefts using 3D US.
Main Methods:
- Prospective examination of 31 fetuses with suspected facial clefts using both 2D and 3D US.
- Follow-up assessment in all examined fetuses.
Main Results:
- 3D US correctly identified the location of cleft lip in all 28 affected fetuses, compared to 26/28 with 2D US.
- 3D US detected 19/22 cleft primary palates, while 2D US identified 9/22.
- 3D US correctly ruled out suspected clefts in three fetuses.
Conclusions:
- Three-dimensional ultrasonography is a valuable tool for prenatal identification of facial clefting location and extent.
- Advantages of 3D US include standardized orientation, systematic defect viewing, and enhanced landmark visualization.
- The recognizable 3D rendered images can positively influence patient understanding and decision-making regarding treatment.