TIFFA Scan: Key to Safe Pregnancy & Fetal Health

TIFFA Scan, or Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies Scan, is an advanced ultrasound examination performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, typically between the 18th and 22nd weeks. 

This detailed scan provides an in-depth view of the baby’s development and is crucial in ensuring fetal health and a safe pregnancy.

What is TIFFA Scan?

The TIFFA scan helps detect conditions such as Down syndrome, spinal defects, skeletal dysplasias, and heart issues. It’s an important part of prenatal care because it can help early detect potential health issues in the fetus, allowing for appropriate medical planning and care.

How Does the TIFFA Scan Differ from Other Pregnancy Scans?

The TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan differs from other pregnancy scans primarily in its timing, detail, and purpose:

• Timing
• Detail
• Purpose
• Technological Sophistication
• Outcome

In contrast, other pregnancy scans, such as the first-trimester screening, nuchal translucency scan, or growth scan, might focus more broadly on verifying the pregnancy, assessing the risk of chromosomal conditions, or monitoring the fetus’s growth rate and position as the pregnancy progresses.

Importance of TIFFA Scan in Pregnancy

The TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan holds significant importance in pregnancy for several reasons:

Detecting Fetal Anomalies and Conditions

The TIFFA scan is designed to meticulously examine the fetus for a wide range of potential anomalies and conditions. By utilising high-resolution ultrasound technology, it can view detailed structures of the fetus, such as the brain, heart, spine, limbs, and internal organs. This scan checks for:

1. Structural anomalies like cleft lip, spina bifida, or congenital heart defects.
2. Skeletal abnormalities such as limb malformations.
3. Neurological issues that affect brain development.
4. Genetic disorders that might present physical manifestations, though some may require further genetic testing for confirmation.

Planning Medical Interventions

Once a potential anomaly is identified via the TIFFA scan, medical professionals can begin to plan necessary interventions. This planning might include:

1. Pre-birth interventions: In some cases, interventions can be performed while the baby is still in the uterus. For example, certain cardiac anomalies might be treatable with fetal surgery.
2. Birth planning: The information from a TIFFA scan can influence decisions about where and how the birth should be managed. For instance, a baby with a known heart condition might need to be delivered to a hospital with immediate access to paediatric cardiac care.
3. Post-birth care: Identifying conditions early helps prepare for care immediately after birth. This could involve arranging for surgeries, therapies, or specialised care immediately after the child is born.

Reasons to Have TIFFA Scan

There are several compelling reasons for expectant parents to opt for a TIFFA scan:

Comprehensive Health Assessment

The TIFFA scan provides a complete check-up of the fetal anatomy, which helps assess the fetus’s overall health and development.

Peace of Mind

For many parents, having the scan and knowing the results can provide significant peace of mind about their baby’s health.

Early Preparation

Knowing about a health issue in advance gives parents time to prepare emotionally and logistically for a child with special needs. They can research the condition, connect with healthcare providers, and plan for medical care or interventions.

Risk Assessment

For parents at higher risk of fetal anomalies due to factors like family history, previous pregnancies with complications, or maternal health issues, the TIFFA scan is particularly crucial.

Overall, the TIFFA scan is an invaluable tool in modern prenatal care, providing deep insights into fetal health and significantly influencing the planning and management of pregnancy and childbirth.

When and How is TIFFA Scan Performed?

Generally, the majority of the babies are normal. But all women at any age have a chance of having a baby with structural abnormalities which may be physical or mental. 

To rule out these abnormalities in the early stages, a TIFFA Scan is done. Therefore, every woman who is pregnant needs to have a fetal anomaly scan.

So, search for the best diagnostic centre nearby that offers Tiffa scan and inquire about TIFFA scan cost in Delhi or Tiffa scan cost nearby diagnostic centre for quick and safe testing. 

Optimal Timing in Pregnancy

The optimal timing for certain prenatal tests and interventions during pregnancy is crucial for ensuring both the health of the mother and the optimal development of the fetus. Here’s a general guideline on the timing of key scans and tests:

1. First Trimester (1-12 Weeks)

Dating and Viability Scan (6-9 weeks): This early ultrasound confirms the pregnancy, checks if it’s intrauterine (located within the uterus), detects heartbeats, and estimates the gestational age.

Nuchal Translucency Scan (11-13 weeks): This scan measures the clear space in the tissue at the back of the baby’s neck. It’s combined with maternal blood tests to assess the risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities.

2. Second Trimester (13-26 Weeks)

Anatomy Scan (TIFFA Scan) (18-23 weeks): This is the optimal time for the Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies scan, which is crucial for a detailed review of fetal anatomy. It helps detect structural abnormalities and ensures that the fetus is developing normally.

Glucose Tolerance Test (24-28 weeks): Tests for gestational diabetes can develop during pregnancy and affect the health of both mother and baby.

3. Third Trimester (27-40 Weeks)

Growth Scans (28-40 weeks): Performed periodically throughout the third trimester to monitor the baby’s growth, the amount of amniotic fluid, and the placenta’s health.

Group B Strep Test (35-37 weeks): Checks for the presence of Group B streptococcus, a common bacteria that can be harmful to the baby during delivery.

Each of these tests is timed to provide vital information at specific stages of fetal development or to prepare for the upcoming birth.

Step-by-Step Procedure of the Scan

Procedure: The TIFFA scan is a detailed ultrasound examination. Here’s how it typically goes:

1. Preparation: Generally, no special preparation is required for a TIFFA scan, but some clinics might ask the mother to come with a full bladder to improve the visibility of the pelvic organs.
2. Process: During the scan, the mother lies on an examination table, and a clear gel is applied to her abdomen. This gel helps transmit the ultrasound waves through the skin.
3. Ultrasound Transducer: A transducer, which is a handheld device, is moved over the abdomen. The transducer sends sound waves into the body, which bounce off the fetus, creating an image on a monitor.
4. Examination: The sonographer (the technician performing the ultrasound) or a fetal medicine specialist will systematically examine different parts of the fetus. They will look at the brain, spine, face (including the lips and nose), heart, stomach, kidneys, limbs, and other structures to check for anomalies and ensure proper development.
5. Duration: The scan usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how easily the required views of the fetus are obtained.

The TIFFA scan is a non-invasive, safe procedure for both the mother and the fetus. It plays a crucial role in prenatal care by providing essential information about the fetal health and development, thereby aiding in proactive medical and psychological preparation for parents-to-be.

What to Expect During and After the Scan?

During and after a TIFFA scan, an important prenatal ultrasound, expectant parents can anticipate a detailed and informative experience. Here’s a breakdown of what typically happens:

During the Scan: What Will You See?

Arrival and Preparation:

1. You’ll likely be asked to arrive with a partially full bladder, which can improve the visibility of the uterus and the fetus.
2. You’ll lie down on an examination table, and a clear gel will be applied to your abdomen. This gel helps to conduct the ultrasound waves.

Ultrasound Process: 

1. The sonographer will use a transducer (a handheld device) to send sound waves through your abdomen into the uterus. These waves bounce back to the device, creating images of the fetus on a monitor.
2. The sonographer will systematically examine the fetus’s body, checking the brain, spine, heart, kidneys, limbs, and other structures. They may take measurements and assess the blood flow in various organs.

Communication:

1. The sonographer might explain what is being viewed and occasionally ask you to shift positions to get better views of the fetus.
2. The environment is generally quiet, allowing the sonographer to concentrate and ensure that all necessary details are captured.

Duration:

The process usually takes about 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how easily all fetus parts can be visualised.

After the Scan

• Discussion of Findings: After the scan, the sonographer or a fetal medicine specialist will review the images and discuss the findings with you. 
• Follow-Up Actions: If any anomalies or issues are identified, the specialist may recommend further diagnostic tests such as a follow-up ultrasound, genetic testing, or consultations with specialists in maternal-fetal medicine.
• Report: You will receive a detailed scan report, which includes descriptions of the fetus’s structure, measurements, and any notable findings. This report is also sent to your healthcare provider.
• Emotional Response: It’s normal to have a range of emotions during and after the scan. Many parents feel anxious before the scan and relieved if it shows that the fetus is healthy.
• Record Keeping: Keep the TIFFA scan report with your pregnancy records as it can be crucial for ongoing prenatal care and future reference.

Overall, the TIFFA scan is a comprehensive examination that provides vital information about the fetus’s health and development. It is a cornerstone of modern prenatal care, helping ensure the best outcomes for both the mother and the baby.

Understanding Your TIFFA Scan Report

A TIFFA (Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies) scan, also known as an anomaly scan, is typically performed during the second trimester of pregnancy, around the 18th to 22nd week. 

This detailed ultrasound assesses the baby’s development and checks for any abnormalities. Here’s how you can understand your TIFFA scan report:

1. Basic Information
2. Fetal Biometry
3. Fetal Anatomy
4. Placenta and Amniotic Fluid
5. Fetal Movements and Position
6. Additional Observations
7. Summary and Recommendations

Handling Abnormal Scan Results

An abnormal Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies (TIFFA) scan can be concerning for expecting parents. Here’s a general guide on how to handle abnormal TIFFA scan results:

Possible Outcomes and Next Steps

• Stay Calm and Seek Clarification:

It’s natural to feel anxious, but try to stay calm.

Discuss the results thoroughly with your obstetrician or the radiologist who conducted the scan. Ask them to explain the findings in detail.

• Request for a Follow-Up Scan:

Sometimes, a follow-up scan is needed to confirm the findings, as certain abnormalities might be temporary or might not be as serious as initially thought.

• Get a Second Opinion:

Consider seeking a second opinion from a specialist in maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) or a perinatologist who has more experience with fetal abnormalities.

Emotional and Psychological Support

• Counselling Services: Seek support from a psychologist or a counsellor who specialises in prenatal and perinatal care.
• Support Groups: Joining support groups for parents facing similar situations can provide emotional support and practical advice.

Navigating Through TIFFA Scans with Cadabams Diagnostics

Cadabams Diagnostics is one of the top diagnostic centres in Bangalore and specialises in diagnostic services for various medical conditions. We offer diagnostic tests, including laboratory investigations, radiology services, and imaging studies in Banashankari, Bangalore. 

Navigating through TIFFA scans with Cadabams Diagnostics involves thorough preparation, clear communication with healthcare providers, and an understanding of the next steps following the scan.

Utilising the resources and specialists available at Cadabams and seeking emotional and psychological support can help manage the process more effectively. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare providers to ensure you receive the best care and support during this critical time.

For more information or to schedule your TIFFA scan, visit our website or reach out to us at +91 9900665696 or info@cadabamsdiagnostics.com. Let us be your trusted partner in prenatal care, delivering the highest standards of medical excellence and compassionate support.