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Fetal iliac angle measurements by three-dimensional sonography
W Lee1, K Blanckaert, R A Bronsteen
1Division of Fetal Imaging, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, William Beaumont Hospital, 3601 West Thirteen Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48073-6769, USA. wlee@beaumont.edu
Summary
Three-dimensional sonography reliably measures fetal axial iliac angles. This technique aids in identifying fetuses with an increased risk for Down syndrome (trisomy 21).
Area of Science:
- Prenatal diagnosis
- Medical imaging
- Genetics
Background:
- Down syndrome (trisomy 21) is a genetic disorder.
- Prenatal screening for Down syndrome is crucial for early intervention.
- Three-dimensional (3D) sonography offers advanced imaging capabilities for fetal assessment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the technical reliability of fetal iliac angle measurements using 3D sonography.
- To evaluate the potential of the fetal iliac angle as a prenatal marker for Down syndrome.
Main Methods:
- Standardized 3D multiplanar views of the fetal pelvis were used.
- Iliac angle measurements were taken from normal and trisomy 21 fetuses.
- Inter- and intraobserver reliability were analyzed using intraclass correlation.
Main Results:
- Axial iliac angles were significantly larger in fetuses with trisomy 21 (87.7°) compared to normal fetuses (79°).
- Measurements showed high reproducibility and reliability between examiners.
- A threshold of 87° correctly identified 56% of trisomy 21 fetuses with a 5% false-positive rate.
Conclusions:
- Standardized 3D sonographic measurement of the axial iliac angle is technically reliable.
- This measurement can serve as a useful tool in identifying fetuses at increased risk for Down syndrome.