First Trimester Experience

First trimester ultrasound imaging is most commonly limited to the risk determination of Down’s Syndrome. Adding a detailed ultrasound around 12-14 weeks can help validate chromosomal anomalies but can also identify structural malformations including spina bifida, limb defects, congenital diaphragmatic hernia and congenital heart defects. Using Voluson™ ultrasound systems can help improve the detection rates of chromosomal and structural anomalies for earlier detection, providing answers sooner for better decision making .

After discovering a pregnancy, the anticipation of the first images of their baby is an exciting and anxious time for parents. The initial ultrasound examination is normally conducted between 6-10 weeks. The objective of this first scan is to visually confirm the number of embryos present and determine whether the pregnancy is progressing normally. Measurements including yolk sac diameter, heart rate, and crown-rump lengths can offer insights into the health of the early gestation period of pregnancy. Voluson ultrasound systems extraordinary imaging can offer well-defined insights to help provide validation and initial answers for parents.

6W0D embryo seen with HDlive Studio

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The 10^th to 14^th weeks of gestation present a unique opportunity to learn about the health of a pregnancy. Advances in ultrasound technology and maternal blood analysis have allowed for first trimester evaluation for serious fetal anomalies and more accurate screening for chromosomal conditions. The complimentary technology of cell free DNA and Voluson ultrasound systems can help deliver proven, clinically relevant information on Down syndrome, trisomy 18 and trisomy 13 (the “common” trisomies). allowing clinicians and patients to have clear answers sooner.

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12W2D fetus with Nuchal Translucency measurement performed by SonoNT – a Voluson semi-automatic tool to help standardize the measurement of the nuchal translucency

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It is important to understand that a detailed first trimester ultrasound can detect malformations that can either occur in isolation or with maternal or genetic disease.⁴ Anomalies such as congenital heart defects, spina bifida, limb defects, congenital diaphragmatic hernia can be identified. The first trimester assessment presents a unique opportunity to evaluate for potential complications. Using Voluson ultrasound systems can help improve the detection rates structural anomalies for earlier detection, providing answers sooner for better decision making.

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Dilated 4^th ventricle (Vermis hypoplasia ) in a 13 week fetus using the high frequency RIC6-12 probe supports with high quality images for fast and early diagnoses in the first trimester
– Image courtesy of Prof. Bernard Benoit

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Twin pregnancies are now more prevalent due to advancements in Assisted Reproductive Technologies. In twins, the risk for anomalies is even higher as compared to singletons. A detailed first trimester ultrasound is recommended for accurate assessment of gestational age, and chorionicity, which allows for proper triage of pregnancies at risk for pre-term birth and twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome. 1-5 With Voluson ultrasound systems, we aim to help you improve patient care with innovative technologies that allow you to focus on early prevention rather than late diagnosis.

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Nice render of monochorionic twins

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