What is 4D Ultrasound Scan: Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results

Definition & Overview

A 4D scan is a prenatal ultrasound that incorporates time as the 4th dimension allowing it to capture not just still images but also a video of a baby inside a womb. It can be performed for medical reasons, such as when birth defects that do not show up on a standard 2D and 3D scans are suspected or as an elective procedure. However, experts do not advocate having 4D scans purely for souvenir photos and videos as it can expose the unborn child to more ultrasound that is medically necessary.

Who Should Undergo and Expected Results

All pregnant women can elect to undergo a 4D ultrasound scan. However, it is only typically recommended by doctors if some birth defects, congenital anomalies, or medical conditions that affect the mother are suspected. These include:

• Neural tube defects
• Foetal aneuploidy
• Cleft palate, which is not detected by a standard 2D scan
• Uterine fibroids
• Subchorionic hemorrhage
• Ovarian mass

The standard prenatal imaging scan used nowadays is 2D or two-dimensional, which captures images of a foetus’ internal organs and bones. A 3D scan, on the other hand, is another optional scan that can produce images of the baby from the surface, but cannot capture movements like a 4D scan can. This makes the latter the most advanced ultrasound technology currently available.

Like other ultrasound scans, a 4D scan can be used to:

• Confirm normal foetal development
• Confirm the patient’s due date and the baby’s gestational age
• Detect or confirm multiple pregnancies
• Check for other issues that may affect the pregnancy
• Check the position of the placenta

In order to obtain accurate results, 4D ultrasound should be performed between 26th and 30th weeks of pregnancy. Around this time, the baby will have sufficient subcutaneous fat, so the surface of the skin will be more accurately captured during the scan.

How is the Procedure Performed?

For the procedure, the patient lies down on an exam table and a gel-like substance, which is responsible for carrying the sound waves, is applied to her abdomen. A probe is then placed against the abdomen and moved around to produce images that instantly show up on a computer monitor. The images are then examined to check for anything that may seem unusual. The procedure takes 15-20 minutes and is generally painless and comfortable. It does not require any type of anaesthesia.

Possible Risks and Complications

Due to the use of ultrasound energy, experts advice doctors and expectant parents alike to use 4D scans minimally and with caution. Although there are studies that show that the procedure is as safe as standard 2D scans and that the levels of ultrasound exposure of both scans are the same, some argue that 4D ultrasound exposes the unborn child to more ultrasound that is medically necessary. For this reason, some doctors only allow 4D scans when there is a medical reason to perform them.

References:

• Tomasovic S., Predojevic M. “4D Ultrasound – Medical Devices for Recent Advances on the Etiology of Cerebral Palsy.” Acta Inform Med. 2011 Dec; 19(4):228-234. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3564175/

• Kurjak A., Predojevic M., Kadic A. “Fetal Behavior in 4D Ultrasound in the Progress of Perinatal Medicine.” Journal of Health and Medical Informatics. http://www.omicsonline.org/fetal-behavior-in-4d-ultrasound-in-the-progress-of-perinatal-medicine-2157-7420.S11-006.php?aid=13161

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## What is⁤ a 4D Ultrasound Scan? An Overview, Benefits, and Expected Results



**Introduction**

A 4D ultrasound scan, also known as a 4D sonogram or real-time 3D ultrasound, ⁢is a cutting-edge medical ‍imaging technique that provides expectant mothers with stunning ⁤moving images of their developing baby. This technology offers ​unique insights and benefits throughout the pregnancy‍ journey.



**What is a 4D‍ Ultrasound Scan?**

It⁤ is a ​non-invasive and safe imaging technique that uses sound⁢ waves⁤ to create three-dimensional (3D) and moving ⁢(4th dimension) images ‌of the fetus in the womb. The scan can be ⁢performed at various⁢ stages of pregnancy, providing valuable information about the baby’s growth, development, and well-being.



**Benefits of ⁣a 4D Ultrasound Scan**



* **Emotional Bonding:** The lifelike images enable parents to connect and‌ bond with their unborn⁣ child,⁤ enhancing⁤ the emotional experience of pregnancy.

* **Detailed Fetal⁣ Assessment:** 4D ultrasound allows healthcare providers to thoroughly assess the baby’s facial features, limbs, internal organs, and ‌overall development.

* **Early​ Detection of Abnormalities:** The detailed images can help‍ identify ⁤congenital anomalies or​ developmental⁣ issues at an early stage,‍ aiding in⁢ timely intervention if ⁣necessary.

* **Monitoring Growth ​and Position:** It ⁤helps track the baby’s‍ growth and monitor their position in the womb, ensuring optimal positioning for delivery.

* **Personalized Experience:**⁤ Parents can capture ‍special⁤ moments and share the images‍ with loved ones, making it a cherished keepsake of the pregnancy journey.



**Expected Results**

During a 4D ultrasound scan, expectant mothers can expect to see:



* ⁤**Clear and Moving Images:** Highly detailed real-time videos of ⁣the baby’s movements, facial expressions, and reactions.

* **Anatomical Structures:** Detailed visualization of the baby’s body parts, including limbs, eyes, nose, and‍ mouth.

* **Assessment​ of Development:** Evaluation​ of the baby’s⁤ growth and development in real-time, showcasing physical movements, breathing, and activity levels.

* **Identification of Abnormalities (if present):**⁣ Early detection of any structural abnormalities ⁣or concerns, prompting further investigation if⁤ necessary.



**Conclusion**

A 4D ultrasound scan is an advanced⁤ imaging technique that⁤ provides invaluable insights into the health and well-being⁣ of ‌the developing baby. With detailed and moving images, it enhances emotional bonding, ​aids in medical assessments, and ‌creates ‌cherished memories for expectant parents. By providing a comprehensive view of the fetus’s growth and⁤ development, 4D⁣ ultrasound empowers healthcare providers ⁢to proactively address potential issues and ensure optimal outcomes for both ⁢the mother and baby.