Universal third-trimester obstetrical ultrasonography: a cross-sectional analysis of a national survey

Universal third-trimester obstetrical ultrasonography represents a medical debate. The current survey was conducted to evaluate the actual use of third-trimester scan and understand gynecologists' aptitude.

A survey was mailed to 128 gynecologists between January and February 2020. Data about their demographic's characteristics, hospital ward, and self-assessment questionnaires were recorded. Results were evaluated by using combined analysis.

Overall, 128 (29.8%) gynecologists answered. Their age ranged between 45 and 64 years (70.3% of the total, 90/128). The half part worked in hospitals and university hospitals (39.8%, 51/128 and 10.1%, 13/128, respectively), 26.5% (34/128) worked in private hospitals and 23.4% (30/128) in public ambulatories. The neonatal intensive care unit was present in 37.5% (48/128) of the cases. 96.0% of gynecologists surveyed (123/128) offered the universal third-trimester scan (28-32 weeks) and 78.1% of the physician recommended the universal 35-37 weeks ultrasonographical exam. A subanalysis among third level hospital gynecologists versus gynecologists without neonatal intensive care unit showed no statistical difference.

This survey reveals extensive use of third-trimester scan in low-risk pregnancy. Nevertheless, randomized controlled trials concerning the universal third-trimester scan are required to validate this clinical attitude.