What is USG NT Scan?

The USG NT Scan, or the Ultrasound Nuchal Translucency Scan, is a prenatal test typically performed between the 11th and 14th week of pregnancy. This scan's objective is to determine the baby's likelihood of having Down syndrome or other chromosomal abnormalities. Here's more about it:

• Nuchal Translucency: This term refers to a fluid collection under the skin at the back of a baby's neck. The thickness of this fluid layer can indicate potential genetic disorders.

• Procedure: The USG NT scan is performed using ultrasound technology. The ultrasound probe is placed on the mother's abdomen, and sound waves are sent into the womb. These waves bounce back to create an image of the baby, allowing the technician to measure the nuchal fold.

• Accuracy: While the USG NT scan can provide useful information, it is not 100% accurate. Rather than being a diagnostic test, it is a screening exam, meaning it can only tell if the baby is at high risk or low risk of having a chromosomal abnormality.

• Additional Tests: If the NT scan shows a high risk, doctors may recommend further diagnostic tests like Amniocentesis or Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS).

• Risks: The USG NT scan is a non-invasive process with no known dangers to the unborn child or mother. However, it is crucial to have the scan done by a trained sonographer to ensure accuracy.

The USG NT Scan, also known as the Nuchal Translucency scan, is typically required during the first trimester of pregnancy. This ultrasound examination is usually performed between the 11th and 14th weeks of gestation. The primary purpose of this scan is to detect any chromosomal abnormalities in the fetus, particularly Down syndrome. However, it can also help identify other genetic conditions, such as Patau's syndrome and Edwards' syndrome.

Another significant reason for this scan is to detect any structural defects in the fetus. These defects can include issues with the heart, spinal cord, or other organs. Besides, USG NT Scan is often used to confirm the date of pregnancy. It gives a more accurate due date compared to the last menstrual period date. It's also used in cases of multiple pregnancies to determine the number of embryos and their health condition.

The USG NT Scan is primarily required for pregnant women, particularly those who fall into the high-risk category. The high-risk category includes women who:

• Are aged 35 years or older

• Have a family history or previous child with chromosomal abnormalities.

• Have had a previous pregnancy with a neural tube defect

• Have medical conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure

• Have used assisted reproduction technology to conceive

However, even if a pregnant woman doesn't fall into the high-risk category, she may still opt for the USG NT Scan as part of her routine prenatal care. It can provide reassurance and peace of mind regarding the health of the fetus.

The USG NT Scan measures several elements to assess the health of the fetus. These measurements help in detecting any potential abnormalities. They include:

• Nuchal Translucency: This is the primary measurement taken during this scan. It measures the clear space in the tissue at the back of the baby's neck. An increased thickness can indicate a higher risk of Down syndrome and other genetic conditions.

• Crown-Rump Length (CRL): This measurement is used to determine the age of the fetus. A discrepancy between the CRL and gestational age can indicate a potential problem.

• Nasal Bone: During this scan, the presence or absence of the nasal bone is also examined. One subtle indicator of Down syndrome may be the lack of nasal bone.

• Ductus Venosus Flow: This measures the blood flow in the small vein in the fetal heart. Abnormal flow can indicate heart defects or chromosomal abnormalities.

• Tricuspid Flow: This checks the blood flow through the fetus's heart's tricuspid valve. An abnormal flow can also indicate heart defects or genetic conditions.

• USG NT Scan, also known as Ultrasound Nuchal Translucency Scan, is a prenatal screening used during pregnancy to detect abnormalities in the unborn baby's chromosomes. It is primarily used to detect conditions such as Down, Patau, and Edwards.

• The space in the tissue at the back of the baby's neck that is transparent or translucent is measured during the scan. The back of a baby's neck sometimes seems larger than typical during the first trimester because abnormal babies tend to gather more fluid there.

• Usually, the NT scan is carried out between weeks 11 and 14 of pregnancy. It is combined with a blood test to provide more accurate results. This combination of tests is often called the 'first-trimester screening' or 'combined screening.'

• The scan is performed using ultrasound, which creates images of the unborn child in the womb using sound waves. The scan is non-invasive and poses no harm to the mother or the baby.

• Generally, no special preparation is needed for the NT scan. You may be asked to come with a full bladder as it allows the sonographer to get better images. Drinking a few glasses of water one hour before your appointment can help fill your bladder.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothing for the scan. You may need to expose your tummy; hence it could be wise to wear a two-piece ensemble.

• Before the scan, you may be asked about your medical history, including details about your menstrual cycle and any symptoms you've been experiencing.

• It's advisable to bring along your partner, a friend, or a relative for emotional support, as the scan can be a little stressful for some expecting mothers.

• A sonographer performs the NT Scan. After being instructed to lie down on an examination table, your abdomen will be covered with a clear gel. This gel helps in transmitting ultrasound waves by creating a seal between the skin and the ultrasound probe.

• The sonographer will then move the ultrasound probe over your abdomen to get images of your baby. The ultrasonic device will produce a picture of your baby and measure the fluid at the back of the baby's neck.

• The actual scan will take ten to twenty minutes. However, please note that the baby needs to be in the right position to get accurate measurements. So, the whole process might take longer if the baby is not in an optimal position.

• The gel is going to be removed from your abdomen. The sonographer or your doctor will discuss the results with you. Additionally, the outcomes will be merged with the outcomes of a blood test to calculate the risk of your baby having certain chromosomal abnormalities.

• Ultrasonography Nuchal Translucency (USG NT) Scan is a special type of ultrasound performed during the first trimester of pregnancy to measure the fluid at the back of the baby's neck. This can provide information about the risk of certain genetic disorders.

• The normal range for the Nuchal Translucency is between 1.3mm to 2.5mm. This measurement is taken between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation.

• The average measurement is 2mm, and anything above 2.5mm is considered abnormal and indicative of potential genetic disorders such as Down Syndrome, Turner Syndrome, or cardiac issues.

• A higher NT measurement does not guarantee a genetic problem in the child will have a genetic disorder. However, it can increase the risk.

• Common genetic disorders associated with an increased NT measurement include Down Syndrome, Patau Syndrome, and Edwards Syndrome.

• Sometimes, an increased NT measurement may also indicate a cardiac defect in the baby. It can also be associated with other physical abnormalities in the baby.

• It's also important to note that an increased NT measurement might just be due to a normal variation and not always indicative of a problem.

• Lead a healthy lifestyle both prior to and throughout pregnancy. This includes maintaining a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and abstaining from dangerous drugs like alcohol and tobacco.

• Frequent prenatal visits are necessary to track the mother's and the unborn child's health.

• Pregnant women should take prenatal vitamins, including folic acid, which can help reduce the risk of birth defects.

• Genetic counseling may be beneficial for those who have a family history of genetic disorders or who have had an abnormal NT scan in a previous pregnancy.

• Post-scan, it's normal to feel a little anxious about the results. However, remember that an increased NT measurement is not a conclusive diagnosis, but rather a screening test. Follow-up tests may be recommended if the NT measurement is increased. These can include further ultrasound scans, blood tests, or more invasive procedures such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.

• It is important to discuss the results and any concerns with your healthcare provider. They can provide further information and support.

• Regardless of the scan results, regular prenatal care is necessary for the mother's and the baby's health and wellbeing.

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