The pregnancy is 18-19. The ultrasound examination carried out during the week of Its aim is to examine as many anatomical structures of the fetus as possible. We examine the heart, lungs, spine, face and skull, brain structures, internal organs, limbs, abdominal wall, etc. as well as many small signs that may indicate the existence of some abnormality or chromosomal error. We can also state the amount of amniotic fluid and the position of the placenta. At this age, the gender of the fetus can also be determined.
During the examination, we also measure the length of the cervix (cervix measurement) in order to predict premature birth and assess any risk factors based on the mother's anamnestic data. The importance of the measurement lies in the fact that 1 out of every 10 newborns in Hungary is born prematurely. The earlier a baby is born, the greater the risk that problems will occur, e.g. vision, hearing, breathing and nervous system, learning, behavior and behavior disorders.
Among the unrecognized developmental disorders, the leading role is played by congenital heart malformations, which affect nearly 1% of newborns. Considering that fetuses with heart defects 90% come from the low-risk pregnant population, it is important to have a fetal echocardiogram screening performed at the appropriate level (FMF audited examiners). The 18-19. 90% of serious developmental abnormalities and heart defects can be screened out during a weekly ultrasound examination by a suitably qualified examiner.
During fetal life, there are also abnormalities that are not yet detectable in the second trimester ultrasound scan, these are the so-called late-appearing abnormalities (become apparent after the 24th week). These can occur for two reasons: