Beyond ultrasound: how 3D imaging enhances pregnancy monitoring

You may be most familiar with an ultrasound as a grainy greyscale wedge, where the 2D suggestion of a baby’s form lounges in a black abyss. While exciting to see, the image leaves much to the imagination. But new innovations in ultrasound technology means that pregnancy sonograms have become more graphic, comprehensive, and in colour! Instead of seeing the baby from the side cross-section, 3D ultrasounds enable expectant parents to see their baby’s face before they’re ever born, making them all the more excited to meet their baby. In this article, leading obstetrician and gynaecologist Dr Deepa Janga explains the advantages of 3d ultrasounds.

What is an ultrasound?

An ultrasound use high-frequency sound waves emitted from a probe which are echoed back from the organs to produce an image. The image, called a sonogram, is created by measuring the length of time it takes for the echo to return to the probe, which then approximates the shape of the space it is examining to create a visual of it. A 3D ultrasounds uses the same techniques of a 2D traditional ultrasound, but the sound waves sweep all over the space, taking many of the 2D images and compiling them together to make a 3D model that can be analysed at different angles.

Ultrasounds are the preferred imaging scan for pregnant people because there is no radiation involved in the process, unlike CT scans and X-rays. It is painless, and is a lot quieter than an MRI, minimising stress to the patient. It provides real-time perspective into the condition of the womb and other organs or anatomy. With advanced techniques, ultrasound is an indispensable diagnostic tool for obstetricians and gynaecologists.

What are the benefits of 3D ultrasounds?

A 3D ultrasound provides doctors a thorough glimpse into the pelvic anatomy with enhanced depth perception and details. This provides them with insight to the baby’s condition that is not possible with a 2D scan, such as:

• Detecting congenital abnormalities, like a cleft palate, central nervous system malformations, or hydrocephalus.
• Estimating the baby’s weight before delivery.
• Showing the baby’s position and location, so that delivery options can be discussed and prepared for, or if the pregnancy is ectopic (meaning that the fertilised egg has implanted and grows outside of the appropriate space in the uterus, like in the fallopian tubes).

This sort of information is vital to ensuring the health of the baby and mother, and planning a safe delivery.

A non-medical benefit to 3D sonograms is that parents are able to “meet” their baby sooner, thanks to the detailed images that can reveal the baby’s facial features and even expressions that the baby is making in the womb. Having these visuals helps tide the time until 40-odd weeks are over and their bundle of joy is out of their belly and in their arms instead.

If you would like to know more about 3D ultrasounds, you can consult with Dr Janga today her Top Doctors profile.