10. Fetal and maternal scanning

Question 1

Why is the use of x-ray and CT controversial in pregnancy?

Answer 1

• could lead to birth defects in the foetus - teratogenic.
• they are teratogenic - carcinogenic.
• germ cell mutation risk - genetic risk.

Question 2

Which scanning technique is good for studying the baby’s brain?

Answer 2

MRI.

Question 3

Describe the relationship between amniotic fluid & ultrasounds and amniotic fluid & MRI scans.

Answer 3

• ultrasounds work best with amniotic fluid.

- MRI scans don’t require amniotic fluid.

Question 4

Give one disadvantage of using MRIs for studying the foetus.

Answer 4

• foetus can move around lots affecting the scan.

Question 5

Briefly describe how ultrasounds work. i.e. what energy do they use to produce an image?

Answer 5

• ultrasounds use sound waves.