The role of 3D/4D ultrasound in the diagnosis of fetal facial abnormalities

C. Ionescu, D. Călin, H. Haradja, C. Coroleucă, I. Pacu

Abstract: Fetal facial anomalies are quite frequent and constute grounds for major stress for parents because they are very visible and have a high emotional impact. Examining fetal face and facial abnormalities recognition is very important because allows to suspect the presence of possible chromosomal anomalies or genetic syndromes. Chromosomal anomalies are present in a proportion of 32-77% of the fetuses with facial congenital malformations, depending on the type of the malformation. Therefore, over 250 genetic syndromes are associated with facial anomalies. Ultrasonography 3-dimensional (D) or 4D provides improved viewing of fetal anatomy in relation to facial examination in 2D mode. The 3D ultrasound examination either multiplanar or surface rendering reconstruction mode is one of the ways to obtain an excellent initially target volume of organ investigated. The view in 3D or 4D make it easier understanding anatomical location and the consequences of fault being studied.
DOI:10.18643/gieu.2014.98

Keywords: facial malformations, 3D/4D ultrasound, fetal face, cleft lip and palate, prenatal diagnosis.