Nuchal translucency measurement: The effect of 3D/4D ultrasound

Introduction. Nuchal translucency thickness has undoubtedly been proven as an important marker in screening for chromosomal abnormalities. It is measured in the first trimester by ultrasound. This study was aimed at determining the effect of 3D/4D ultrasound on standard error of mean nuchal translucency measurements. Material and Methods. Having satisfied the inclusion criteria, 430 nuchal translucency measurements were analyzed (singleton pregnancies, 11+0-13+6 weeks of gestation, crown rump length 45-84mm, postnatally confirmed absence of anomalies). The data were divided into two groups, depending on the method used (older generation 2D ultrasound or 3D/4D ultrasound). The reported nuchal translucency measurements were converted into multiple of median values of nuchal translucency and 95% confidence interval was calculated for the two sets of data. Results. The standard error of mean values has decreased from 0.027, when nuchal translucency was mea-sured via 2D ultrasound, to 0.016 when 3D/4D ultrasound was used for the measurements. Discussion. The detection rates of prenatal screening tests can be increased and the false positive rates can be decreased by lowering the standard error of mean value. Conclusion. Advanced technology and developed automated measuring of nuchal translucency should result in further enhancements in early detection of fetal abnormalities.