What is an Ultrasound NT Scan?

Ultrasound Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan is a radiology test done between 11 to 13 weeks (first trimester) of pregnancy. It helps in assessing babys deformities in the mothers womb. This test measures the size of the clear tissue called the Nuchal Translucency. It is the fluid found at the back of your babys head and neck, just beneath the skin. Normally the fluid is thinner but if the fluid is measured thicker then it can be indicating serious health problems present in the fetus. It can be a sign of Down syndrome, genetic disorder, heart problems, mortality, deformed limbs in the developing fetus. The test can also show another chromosome abnormality like Patau syndrome or Edwards syndrome.
NT (Nuchal Translucency) Scan also known as NT Screening or NT NB Scan.

Why is an Ultrasound NT Scan?

A doctor may recommend a Nuchal Translucency scan:

to confirm the exact date of the pregnancy and the due date.

to confirm the number of fetuses in the mother's womb (single or multiple).

to confirm the normal growth and development of the fetus.

strongly recommended for women who are over 35 years-of-age, as there is increased the risk of a deformed baby to be developing in the mother's womb.

if there is a prior history of pregnancy with a fetal abnormality.

if there are genetic conditions in the family.

to check the normal heartbeat of the baby.

to check the basic structure of your baby.

to review mother's uterus and pelvis.

What are the points to remember for an Ultrasound NT Scan?

Talk to your doctor about any concerns you have regarding the test or what the results will mean. There are certain requirements you may need to consider while your scanning.

You will need to have a full bladder for the Nuchal Translucency test. Drink clear liquids just before the test and avoid urinating before the test.

Wear loose and comfortable clothes as you may be asked to lift your shirt or push down the waistband of your skirt or pants. Avoid wearing a dress.

Do not wear any metallic ornament or jewelry during the scan.

Do not apply any cosmetic or ointment around your belly.

If your baby is not in the cooperating position, the radiologist may ask you to return on another day for a second session.

What is the procedure for an Ultrasound NT Scan?

An ultrasound machine makes images so that organs inside the body can be examined. The sonography machine emits out high-frequency sound waves, which reflect off our bodies. A computer receives the waves and uses them to create a picture. Unlike an X-ray or CT scan, this test does not use radiation.

During the test, you will lie down on your back or on your side on an exam table. A special medical gel will be spread on your belly. A small wand-shaped device called a transducer will be pressed against the spread gel on your skin and moved over your belly. Images of the baby are displayed on a monitor. The radiologist will look for and measure the thickness of the fluid buildup at the back of the baby's neck.

When the test is completed, the gel is clean from your skin. You can urinate as soon as the test is done. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes to complete.

During a Nuchal Translucency test, you may have a feeling of pressure in your bladder. The gel may feel sticky and cool when it is applied to your belly. You will feel a light pressure from the transducer as it moves over your belly.

What are the possible interpretations of an Ultrasound NT Scan?

There are established and strict criteria for the accurate measurement of the nuchal translucency. It is important for the measurement to be done properly to ensure an accurate result. Your doctor will interpret the results of the nuchal translucency test to see if the area at the back of the baby's neck is thicker than normal.

Generally, the test results are not handed over test right away. Full results are usually available in 1 or 2 days. The average reference NT measurement is 2.5 mm (millimeters). If the measurement slopes down than 2.5 mm then it shows an abnormal thickness of the fluid. Other tests may be conducted to confirm the found problem.

What are the risk factors that can affect an Ultrasound NT Scan results?

A Nuchal translucency scan results can show inaccuracy by:

Being overweight or obese.

Stool or air bubbles in the intestines or rectum.

An abnormally low amount of amniotic fluid.

Not being able to lie still during the test.

The fetus is in certain positions during the test.

A very active fetus.

If the mother is a smoker or consumes drugs.

If the mother is a diabetic.

It is possible that a screening test will show that the baby has an increased chance of having a problem when he or she doesn't have the problem. This is called a false or fake positive test result.

What are the related tests?

This test can also include blood work to measure your levels of plasma protein and Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (HCG), a maternal hormone. Abnormal levels of either may indicate a chromosome problem. There are few other tests like Double Marker Test and Quadruple Marker Test are done for detection of pre-birth conditions of the fetus and is usually done after 8 weeks of pregnancy up to 14 weeks.

To check the cost of the test, you may click on Price of Beta HCG in Chennai, Price of Quadruple Marker Test in Chennai, Price of Double Marker Test in Chennai