Fetal and Maternal Imaging

Question 1

What is the primary imaging modality used to image the FRT and why?

Answer 1

Ultrasound scan 
\:) Non-invasive
\:) Non-toxic
\:) Non-radiating
\:( Real time imaging

Question 2

What is a sonohysterography and what is it used for?

Answer 2

Ultrasound technique that involves adding fluid into the uterine cavity so the uterine cavity and endometrium can be seen more clearly.

Used to detect:

• Uterine anomalies
• Uterine scars
• Endometrial polyps
• Fibroids
• Cancer
• Infertility

Question 3

What is a Doppler ultrasound?

Answer 3

Measures direction and speed of blood cells as they move through vessels

Question 4

What is a hysterosalpinography used for?

Answer 4

A hysterosalpinography is one of the 1st investigations that an infertile couple will get. Checks if the uterus has a normal cavity and if the fallopian tubes are patent.
X Ray image is obtained.

Question 5

Which congenital abnormality of the uterus is least commonly associated with reproductive failure?

Answer 5

Arcuate uterus

Question 6

How is a tubal occlusion seen on a hysterosalpinography?

Answer 6

• No spill seen at the end of the fallopian tubes

* Widened tubes

Question 7

What is nuchal thickness and when is it measured?

Answer 7

Distance between skin and muscle at the back of the neck
Measured at 12 weeks
Raised nuchal thickness is an indicator of Down’s syndrome

Question 8

What are the main imaging scans that are performed?

Answer 8

• 12 week dating scan - check gestational age, estimated date of delivery, size of the baby, number of foetuses, heart beat to assess viability, nuchal translucency
• 20 week anomaly scan

Question 9

What is measured during the 20 week scan to assess fetal growth?

Answer 9

• Femur length
• Abdominal circumference
• Head circumference

Question 10

If anything is picked up on the 20 week anomaly scan, what needs to be done?

Answer 10

• 2nd detailed ultrasound scan
• blood test to look at infections, rhesus status etc.
• amniocentesis to look at genetic makeup of the baby
  mother has to be monitored using further ultrasound examinations

Question 11

At the time of delivery, where should the placenta be located to allow a vaginal birth?

Answer 11

Leading edge of the placenta has to be at least 2cm away from the internal os to allow the cervix to dilate up

Question 12

What is MRI used for in fetal imaging?

Answer 12

Imaging of the brain and soft tissues

Question 13

What is an encephalocele

Answer 13

Brain hanging out the back of the brain through a gap in the skull

Question 14

What is exencephaly?

Answer 14

Brain exposed at the top