Premium
Craniofacial variability index determined by three‐dimensional ultrasound in isolated vs. syndromal fetal cleft lip/palate
Author(s) -
Roelfsema N. M.,
Hop W. C. J.,
van Adrichem L. N. A.,
Wladimiroff J. W.
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.202
H-Index - 141
eISSN - 1469-0705
pISSN - 0960-7692
DOI - 10.1002/uog.3921
Subject(s) - craniofacial , medicine , fetus , craniofacial abnormality , gestational age , orthodontics , dentistry , pregnancy , gynecology , biology , genetics , psychiatry
Objective This study was undertaken to employ craniofacial pattern profile analysis in fetal facial clefts and to evaluate the craniofacial variability index (CVI) in distinguishing between isolated and syndromal clefts. Methods Three‐dimensional (3D) sonographic assessment of 16 different fetal craniofacial measurements was performed in each of eight pregnancies complicated by an isolated facial cleft and seven pregnancies with a syndromal cleft. The measurements covered various aspects of facial width, depth and height. Measured values were compared to gestational age‐specific normal values for calculation of Z ‐scores and the CVI. The number of abnormal Z ‐scores, i.e. < − 2 or > + 2, found among the measured values and the CVI in the group of isolated facial clefts were compared to those in the group with syndromal clefts. Results The CVI could be calculated in 14 of 15 fetuses (93%). More abnormal Z ‐scores and a higher mean CVI were found in the group with more severe (bilateral) facial clefts. Most abnormal values were found in the facial width measurements. Syndromal cleft lip/palate was associated with significantly more abnormal Z ‐scores and a higher mean CVI than isolated cleft lip/palate ( P < 0.05). Conclusion Craniofacial variability index may be a valuable tool for distinguishing between isolated and syndromal fetal cleft lip/palate. Copyright © 2007 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.