PREGNANCY TIFFA/ANOMALY (LEVEL 2) ULTRASOUND SCAN
Also Known As
SENIOR
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FAMILY
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Certified Labs
NABH Accredited
Reports in
3hrs
Measures
No description available
Identifies
No identification information available
About The Test
Why this scan is a crucial milestone in pregnancy
- Detects up to 80 % of major structural birth defects.
- Offers the clearest view of your baby’s brain, heart, spine, and limbs.
- Helps your obstetrician plan any special care you or your baby may need.
Quick facts and key takeaways
- When: 18–22 weeks (best at 20 weeks).
- Duration: 30–45 minutes.
- Safety: No radiation; no known risks.
- Results: Same-day digital report and images.
What is Pregnancy TIFFA/Anomaly (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan?
TIFFA acronym explained: Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies
TIFFA isn’t just another scan—it’s a targeted, head-to-toe survey of every organ system to rule out or confirm anomalies.
Difference between level 1 and level 2 ultrasound
Level 1 (Basic) | Level 2 (TIFFA) |
---|---|
Growth, heartbeat, position | Detailed anatomy of brain, heart, limbs, spine |
15–20 minutes | 30–45 minutes |
Routine screening | In-depth anomaly detection |
How 2D, 3D and color Doppler enhance the scan
- 2D: Gold-standard diagnostic images.
- 3D/4D: Surface rendering for clearer facial views and parental bonding.
- Color Doppler: Evaluates blood flow in umbilical cord, heart, and brain.
Types of Pregnancy TIFFA/Anomaly (Level 2) Ultrasound Scan
Transabdominal standard TIFFA
Most common approach; gel on the belly, painless probe movements.
Transvaginal TIFFA (if better resolution required)
Occasionally used for very detailed brain or cervical assessment—always with consent.
3D/4D add-on enhancements
Optional yet popular; ideal for family keepsake images without compromising diagnostic accuracy.
List of Parameters
- Brain: ventricles, posterior fossa, corpus callosum
- Face: lips, palate, nasal bone
- Heart: 4-chamber view, outflow tracts, septa
- Spine: integrity and curvature
- Abdomen: stomach, kidneys, bladder, cord insertion
- Limbs: long bones, digits
- Placenta: position, maturity, Doppler flows
- Amniotic fluid volume assessment
Why This Test
- Identify structural birth defects early.
- Check fetal growth against gestational age.
- Guide further invasive or non-invasive testing decisions.
When to Take Test
Ideal gestational age: 18–22 weeks (optimal 20 weeks)
At this stage, your baby is large enough for detail but still surrounded by enough fluid for clear views.
High-risk maternal or family history indications
- Advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years).
- Family history of congenital anomalies.
- Pre-existing diabetes or hypertension.
Multiple pregnancy considerations
Twins or triplets require extra time and expertise; Cadabams’ sonographers are specially trained for multi-fetal scans.
Benefits
Benefits of Taking the Scan
- Early reassurance or timely intervention if needed.
- Birth planning for specialized delivery or neonatal care.
- Parental psychological preparedness—knowing what to expect.
Illnesses Diagnosed with the Scan
- Neural tube defects (spina bifida, anencephaly)
- Congenital heart disease
- Cleft lip/palate
- Renal agenesis or obstruction
- Skeletal dysplasias
Preparing for test
- Hydration: Drink 500 ml water 30 minutes prior (full bladder may be required).
- Clothing: Wear a loose 2-piece outfit for easy abdomen access.
- Carry: Previous scan reports and obstetric notes.
Prerequisites
- Referral from obstetrician.
- Confirmed gestational age via earlier dating scan.
Best Time to Take the Scan
- Window 18–22 weeks for highest diagnostic accuracy.
- Avoid after 24 weeks—structures become less visible due to ossification.
Eligibility
- All pregnant women as routine antenatal care.
- Higher priority for AMA (>35 yrs), diabetes, previous anomaly.
Procedure at Cadabams Diagnostics
- Check-in & verification of identity.
- Lie on scan couch, gel applied to abdomen.
- Duration: 30–45 minutes depending on fetal cooperation.
- Real-time discussion of findings with radiologist.
Caution Before Taking the Test
- Inform sonographer of any implanted devices or scars.
- Report vaginal bleeding or pain immediately.
Test Results
Results and Interpretation
Finding / Observation | Description | General Interpretation / Significance |
---|---|---|
Normal 4-chamber heart | All chambers equal size, valves opening | Rules out major congenital heart defects |
Choroid plexus cyst | Small fluid-filled spaces in brain | Usually resolves; follow-up advised |
Low-lying placenta | Placenta edge < 2 cm from cervix | Often migrates upward; repeat scan at 32 weeks |
Short femur length | Below 5th percentile for gestation | May indicate growth restriction or skeletal dysplasia |
Risks & Limitations
No known harm: ultrasound safety profile
Extensive research shows no harmful effects to mother or baby.
Limitations
- Maternal obesity can reduce image clarity.
- Fetal position may hide certain structures.
- Equipment quality matters—Cadabams uses high-resolution machines to minimise these issues.
When additional genetic tests may still be needed
Soft markers or inconclusive findings may prompt NIPT, amniocentesis, or repeat imaging.
FAQs
Is the TIFFA scan painful?
No, it’s non-invasive and painless.
Do I need to fast?
Fasting is not required; feel free to have a light meal.
Can the scan detect all birth defects?
It detects most major structural anomalies; subtle issues may need additional tests.
What if my baby is in a bad position?
The sonographer may ask you to walk, sip juice, or return another day.
Is 3D/4D better than 2D for anomalies?
2D remains the gold standard; 3D/4D improves parental bonding views.
Cost range and insurance coverage?
Cadabams offers competitive pricing; many insurers cover the scan—check with our front desk for cashless approval.