The ultrasonic demonstration of fetal abnormalities in utero

The demonstration of fetal diseases and anomalies in utero can now be performed with a high degree of accuracy with modern ultrasonic equipment. This paper describes the more common and important fetal anomalies which can be demonstrated by ultrasound and indicates the importance of meticulous attention to technique and the significance of the acquistion of skill in real-time sonography by the physician-sonologist. The thoroughness of all obstetric sonographic examinations is emphasized to enable detection of unsuspected fetal anomalies. Specific methods to demonstrate these anomalies in the high-risk patient are also described. Several pitfalls in the diagnosis of fetal disease in utero are included which show the nonspecificity of some of the ultrasonic signs.