Accuracy of Prenatal Ultrasound Scans for Screening Cleft Lip and Palate: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Medical Imaging
• Pediatric Surgery
• Prenatal Diagnosis

Background:

• Cleft lip and palate conditions present significant postnatal challenges, impacting children and parents psychologically.
• Accurate prenatal screening is crucial for parental preparedness and surgical planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the accuracy of two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) ultrasound scans for screening cleft lip and palate.
• To assess the utility of these imaging techniques in aiding parental psychological preparation and surgical planning.

Main Methods:

• A systematic literature search was conducted across PubMed, Trip database, Cochrane, and Google Scholar.
• The search identified 927 articles, with 10 studies meeting the eligibility criteria for inclusion.
• Data from the selected studies were analyzed to determine the diagnostic accuracy of 2D/3D ultrasound.

Main Results:

• The combination of 2D and 3D ultrasound scans demonstrated increased specificity and sensitivity in detecting orofacial clefts.
• These advanced ultrasound techniques provide improved visualization of the fetal face, aiding in diagnosis.
• Diagnosis of cleft palate remains more prone to error, suggesting a need for improved imaging techniques.

Conclusions:

• Combined 2D and 3D ultrasound imaging is an effective tool for screening cleft lip and palate.
• Further advancements in imaging techniques are needed to enhance the visualization and diagnosis of cleft palate.
• Accurate prenatal diagnosis supports better psychological preparation for parents and facilitates timely surgical interventions.