PREGNANCY NT SCAN (LEVEL 2 ) ULTRASOUND SCAN

What Makes the Level 2 NT Scan Unique

• Higher detail: Uses advanced transducers and settings for clearer images of tiny fetal structures.
• More parameters: Adds nasal bone, heart valves, and blood-flow studies beyond routine scans.
• Risk calculation: Feeds findings into software that pairs ultrasound data with blood tests for precise risk scores.

How It Differs From Basic Ultrasound

What Is Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan?

Definition and Purpose

A non-invasive, low-risk ultrasound performed between 11 and 14 weeks to:

• Evaluate the risk of Down syndrome (Trisomy 21), Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18), and Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13).
• Screen for early signs of congenital heart defects and skeletal issues.
• Confirm gestational age and viability.

Role of Nuchal Translucency Measurement

• Normal range: <3 mm at 11–14 weeks.
• Increased thickness: May indicate higher chromosomal or cardiac risk, prompting further tests like NIPT or CVS.

Types of Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

Trans-Abdominal Approach

• Most common: Probe moved across the abdomen.
• Prep: Drink 500 ml water 45 min before; full bladder lifts uterus for clearer view.

Trans-Vaginal Approach (If Indicated)

• When needed: Maternal obesity, retroverted uterus, or early gestation.
• Benefits: Higher-resolution images closer to the fetus.

• Nuchal translucency thickness – primary marker for chromosomal risk.
• Nasal bone presence – absence linked to Down syndrome.
• Crown-rump length (CRL) – confirms exact gestational age.
• Ductus venosus flow – abnormal waveforms suggest cardiac stress.
• Tricuspid regurgitation – leaky heart valve may indicate aneuploidy.

• Early detection of Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, Patau syndrome.
• Structural anomaly screening – early hints of heart, brain, or limb defects.
• Multiple pregnancy assessment – confirms chorionicity in twins or triplets.

Ideal Gestational Age

• Window: 11 weeks 0 days – 13 weeks 6 days.
• Crown-rump length (CRL): 45–84 mm for standardized results.

High-Risk Indications & Universal Screening

• All pregnant women—regardless of age—benefit.
• Especially advised for:
• Maternal age ≥ 30 years.
• Family history of chromosomal disorders.
• Previous pregnancy with anomalies.
• Assisted reproductive technology (IVF) pregnancies.

Benefits of Taking the Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

• Non-invasive screening – no needles, no risk of miscarriage.
• Early reassurance – 85 % of women get low-risk results and peace of mind.
• Guides further diagnostic testing – CVS or amniocentesis offered only when necessary.

Illnesses Diagnosed with Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

• Chromosomal abnormalities – Trisomies 21, 18, 13.
• Congenital heart defects – septal defects, valve anomalies.
• Skeletal dysplasia indicators – shortened long bones or abnormal skull shape.

• Hydration: Sip water steadily; stop 30 min before to achieve a comfortably full bladder.
• Clothing: Two-piece outfit for easy abdomen access.
• Fasting: Not required—enjoy your breakfast!

Pre-requisites Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

• Doctor’s requisition or direct self-referral accepted at Cadabams Diagnostics.
• LMP date or printed early dating scan report for accurate scheduling.

Best Time to Take the Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

• Perfect window: 11 weeks 0 days – 13 weeks 6 days.
• Too early: CRL <45 mm, repeat scan needed.
• Too late: Over 14 weeks, nuchal translucency is no longer reliable.

Eligibility

• All pregnant women within the gestational window.
• Special consent: Guardian form required for mothers <18 years.

Procedure for Taking a Pregnancy NT Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan

1. Check-in & history review – verify dates, allergies, previous pregnancies.
2. Scan duration – 15–30 minutes.
3. Image acquisition sequence – standardized planes captured for audit and reporting.
4. Instant preliminary discussion – sonographer explains key findings before you leave.

Caution Before Taking the Test

• Full bladder vs. empty bladder – follow SMS instructions from Cadabams.
• Report symptoms – inform staff of any vaginal bleeding or pelvic pain immediately.