US PREGNANCY TIFFA SCAN / ANOMALY SCAN (LEVEL2)

Pregnancy TIFFA Anomaly Scan (Level 2) Ultrasound Overview

Pregnancy TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Assessment) or Anomaly Scan also referred to as level 2 ultrasound in anatomy, context is an ultrasound done in pregnancy with particular aim of assessing fetal growth and development. It is usually done between the 18 and 22 weeks of gestation. The primary aim of this scan is to identify the development of normal anatomic structures during the crucial weeks of growth after conception and to monitor the normal growth of the fetus’ crucial organs. 

Pregnant women may be asked to drink more water than usual prior to the examination in order to have clearer photographs taken. Moreover, it is suggested that no lotions or oils are put to the belly on the day of the exam since they may hinder the imaging technique. 

What is the Tiffa/Anomaly Scan? 

By using high frequency sound waves the Tiffa/Anomaly Scan creates images of a fetus located in the uterus. It employs a transducer, which generates ultrasound waves that are reflected from different fetal structures and are returned to the transducer, resulting in images and thus evaluation of the fetal structures. 

• This imaging allows all specialists to visualize the bones, organs, and tissues in more detail than what a standard first trimester ultrasound would allow for. 

Different Types of Anomaly Scans

Before we begin it helps to clarify what the most commonly used fetal scan and anomaly scan imaging technique is a standard 2d ultrasound which renders cross sectional pictures of the fetus eliminating the need for three-dimensions for enhanced understanding. 

• 3D Ultrasound: This type of ultrasound, also known as 3D ultrasound, is used in certain unique cases like visualization of certain defects such as cleft lip. 
• 4D Ultrasound: These images are enhanced by adding a dimension of time, making it possible to see the fetal movements in real time. 

Parameters Considered During the TIFFA/Anomaly Scan

• Inter uterine growth and development of fetal structures like the brain, heart, spine, kidneys and limbs. 
• The umbilicus, belly, and thigh size are among the fetal growth parameters measured. 
• Ensuring the placenta and amniotic fluid level is in appropriate ranges. 

Reasons for Taking a TIFFA/Anomaly Scan

• Evaluation of the fetus for anatomical abnormalities. 
• Determination of number of fetuses in the womb. 
• Assessment of risk factors from previous ultrasounds or gene tests. 
• Providing parents with fetal health assurances. 

When and Which Individual Should Opt for Anomalies Scans? 

• This scan is done daily as a part of a routine check up for pregnant women to assess the growth and development of the fetus and also check for any congenital abnormalities in the early phase of the pregnancy. 
• Some demographic or social segments women who had previous pregnancies with high-risk factors, congenital abnormalities if prevalent in the family or women above 35 years are very likely to benefit out of such a detailed scan. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Early screening of birth defects facilitates preparedness and management. 
• Ducks the worry of the parents while ensuring proper growth of the fetus. 
• Aids clinical choices which may determine the method of delivery, for instance a cesarean section for a few instances. 

Diseases Identified During TIFFA/Anomaly Scan

• Deformities of the heart which are present at birth 
• Defects in the closure of the spine such as spina bifida 
• Deficiency in abdominal wall such as gastroschisis or omphalocele 
• Problems associated with urinary tract 
• Certain deformities of limbers and other Syndromes 

Preparing for the TIFFA/Anomaly Scan

• It is better to drink plenty of fluids prior to the appointment, as this may improve the fetal structural images. 
• In order to make the scan easier wear clothes that can be removed easily. 

Pre-requisites 

• Avoid Consumption of caffeine because fetal movements will be higher than usual, thus making the procedure more difficult. 
• Come with a half full cup of water in the bladder, wait to be guided otherwise by a doctor. The reason is that a half full cup improves the bladders picture quality. 

Best Time to Take the TIFFA/Anomaly Scan 

• Generally between 18 weeks and 22 weeks of gestation, this particular scan is quite amazing as it occurs during the better developed form of the fetal anatomy but still good enough to observe. 

Eligibility 

• It should be emphasized that every pregnant woman should have TIFFA/Anomaly Scan included in the standard prenatal program except in scenarios posing other illnesses in which it was not safe or practical. 

 Procedure for Taking a TIFFA/Anomaly Scan 

• First steps first, a patient is requested to lie back on an examination table. 
• A transabdominal ultrasound will require covering the abdomen with a water-fast ultrasound gel. 
• A transducer will be placed on the patient’s abdomen in order to obtain images of the fetus. This step lasts, on average, between thirty minutes to one hour based on how clear the development and fetal position are. 
• Thereafter, the sonographer images the fetus, this can sometimes be seen by the parents, on a screen. 

Precautions before Performing the Test 

• Notify the technician of any history of abdominal surgery or any condition that may affect it. 
• It is important to stay calm and still during the time the test is being performed in order to procure the best imaging possible.