Fetal transabdominal anatomy scanning using standard views at 11 to 14 weeks' gestation

This study was undertaken to investigate fetal anatomy with the use of standard views and a scoring system, to investigate interobserver variability, and to compare ultrasound modes simultaneously with the measurement of nuchal translucency (11-14 weeks' gestation).

Twelve fetal anatomic regions were defined as standard views (n = 60) and assessed with the use of a scoring system (1 = not seen, 2 = seen uncertainly, 3 = seen acceptably, 4 = well seen, and 5 = very well seen). The variation of scores and interobserver variability were analyzed (n = 40), the B-mode was compared with tissue harmonic and compound imaging (n = 60).

The overall average score (11 + 0 to 13 + 6 weeks) with tissue harmonic and compound imaging was 3.56 (well seen) and increased with gestation. The highest score was for the neck and the lowest for the cerebellum. The proportion of identical scores for each given region showed a range of 58% to 83%. Tissue harmonic and compound imaging was significantly better than the plain B-mode, P < .001 (sign test).

Transabdominal fetal anatomy scanning with standard fetal anatomy views at 11 to 14 weeks of gestation is possible with good reproducibility and demonstrability when harmonic and compound imaging are used.