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3D evaluation of fetal brain structures: reference values and growth curves
Giulia Babucci1, Karl Rosen2, Benito Cappuccini3
1Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy.
Summary
This study demonstrates the reliability of 3D ultrasound for evaluating fetal brain development, providing crucial growth curves for the thalamus, cerebellum, and cortex throughout gestation.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Fetal Neurology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Fetal central nervous system development is a key area in perinatology.
- 3D ultrasound has been a significant tool in obstetrics and gynecology since the 1980s.
Purpose of the Study:
- To reconstruct fetal brain volumes: thalamus, cerebellum, and cortex.
- To generate gestational age-related growth curves for these brain structures.
Main Methods:
- 344 pregnant women were enrolled.
- 3D ultrasound with Tomographic Ultrasound Imaging (TUI) was used for fetal brain acquisition.
- Virtual Organ Computer-Aided Analysis (VOCAL) or 4D View software was used for volume reconstruction.
Main Results:
- Successfully obtained 314 thalamus, 252 cerebellum, and 261 cortex volumes from 344 fetuses.
- Reference growth curves for these fetal brain structures were constructed.
Conclusions:
- 3D technology is reliable for evaluating fetal cerebral volumes.
- The study provides insights into the growth patterns of key fetal brain structures during gestation.
