ULTRASOUND GROWTH SCAN

Ultrasound Growth Scan Overview

An Ultrasound Growth Scan is a specialised ultrasound examination that focuses on how well a foetus is growing and developing within the womb. 

The procedure utilises a transducer which includes a high frequency sound generating device, which penetrates the body with sonic waves. The internal entities will echos these sound waves back towards the transducer. 

This transducer converts the echoes into electrical pulses, creating screen images. The Ultrasound Growth Scan uses echoes received for foetal size and development measurement. 

What is an Ultrasound Growth Scan? 

An Ultrasound Growth Scan is foetal monitoring and evaluation form within pregnancy period and in non-invasive imaging test. 

In psyche of development of foetus whilst pregnant, the Ultrasound Growth Scan is vital for scrutinising the growth and the health of the unborn child. 

This section will describe the Ultrasound growth Scan in detail - its goals, technology features, preparation, potential risks, and restrictions. Types of scans presented with as reason, benefits, conditions diagnosed and how to prepare for the scan. 

Types of Ultrasound Growth Scans 

• Standard Ultrasound Growth Scan: This is the most basic form of ultrasound scans done to examine growth, measurement, as well as the foetal developmental activities. 
• Doppler Ultrasound: Provides information regarding the function of the placenta and the condition of the foetus by determining the blood flow speed in the umbilical artery, umbilical vein, or other blood vessels. 
• Ultrasound 3D and 4D: These two modern techniques provide more informative three-dimensional pictures and videos of the foetus's movements. 

List of Parameters Considered During the Ultrasound Growth Scan

During the scan, the specialist's cheque on any of the following: 

• The volume and weight of the foetus. 
• How the foetus is moving and the general muscle tone. 
• The amount of amniotic liquid present. 
• How the placenta looked like and its size. 
• Doppler changes of the blood supply into the umbilical artery and vein. 

Reasons for Taking an Ultrasound Growth Scan

The primary reasons for carrying out an Ultrasound Growth Scan are the following: 

• Watching the foetus growth and development. 
• Any abnormality or complication within the foetus. 
• Chances of premature labour or delivery. 
• Any medical disease of the mother and its effect on the foetus. 

When and Who Needs to Take an Ultrasound Growth Scan? 

Generally, an ultrasound growth scan is done if abnormalities are suspected in the foetal development. It is usually done when: 

• There is some sort of suspicion against the growth of the foetus. 
• Previous history of problems during pregnancies. 
• Presence of any medical ailments of the mother like hypertension or diabetes that may hinder the growth of the foetus. 
• X Multis pregnancy (twins, triplets, and so on). 
• People who may have a complicated pregnancy where there is a strong chance of premature labour. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Some of the important advantages of doing an Ultrasound Growth Scan are as follow: 

• Most effective non-invasive and radiation free method. 
• Important information on the condition of the foetus and growth is provided. 
• Complications or abnormalities in the foetus are diagnosed and monitored. 
• The pregnancy can be dated accurately. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with Ultrasound Growth Scan

An Ultrasound Growth Scan can determine or track many conditions such as the following: 

• Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR). 
• Concerns regarding foetal anomalies or developmental issues. 
• Complications of multiple pregnancies. 
• Placental insufficiency or placental abruption. 
• Ultrasound Growth Scan Preparation Steps 

Preparing for an Ultrasound Growth Scan

In preparing for an Ultrasound Growth Scan, patients should generally ensure that they: 

• Arrive at the appointment with a full bladder in order to enhance the images. 
• Do not wear tight clothing which might constrain the ultrasound probe. 
• Prepare to discuss concerns or questions for the healthcare provider. 

Prior Requirements 

Other than general recommendations above, there are no specific prerequisite requirements for an Ultrasound Growth Scan. 

Best Time to Take the Ultrasound Growth Scan 

For monitoring of muscular growth, Ultrasound Growth Scan may be taken after 28 weeks of foetal age depending on level of concern. It can, however, be done at any point during the stages of pregnancy. 

Eligibility 

Eligibility for an Ultrasound Growth Scan is standard for all pregnant females, particularly those that are high risk and those worried about foetal development. 

Procedure for Taking an Ultrasound Growth Scan 

The primary steps an Ultrasound Growth Scan aims to accomplish include the following: 

1. The patient’s abdominal area will be revealed as the patient will lie on the examination table. 
2. An ultrasound gel is applied to the abdomen in order to help with movement of the ultrasound probe. 
3. The probe is placed on the abdomen, and the sonographer attempts to get images of the foetus. 
4. This procedure usually takes between 20 and 30 minutes to complete. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

For the scan, it is imperative to notify the health care personnel of any medical issues, any surgery done on the abdominal region, or if there are any pregnancy issues.