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P16Office ultrasonography in obstetrics: an eight year experience
Author(s) -
Assimakopoulos E. A.
Publication year - 2000
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 - 10.1046/j.1469-0705.2000.00004-1-16.x
Subject(s) - medicine , diaphragmatic hernia , obstetrics , cystic hygroma , amniocentesis , trisomy , polyhydramnios , ultrasound , pregnancy , prenatal diagnosis , fetus , gynecology , surgery , radiology , hernia , biology , genetics
Background We present an eighth year experience (1991–98) of ultrasonography in a private office, using a portable ultrasound unit, Aloca SSD‐500. Method Each pregnant woman underwent transvaginal ultrasound examination 7–8w in order to date pregnancy, to confirm fetal viability and the number of fetuses. At 17 weeks, a second trimester screening for Down syndrome was ordered by using BPD, maternal age and maternal serum AFP and free β‐HCG. Later, at 20–22w a detailed scan was performed to all pregnant women in order to exclude fetal anomalies. Results In 1019 consecutive pregnant women, 22 could not recall the date of their LMP and 59 had irregular cycles. By measuring the CRL, the expected date of delivery was accurately calculated. One hundred and seventy‐six women underwent amniocentesis with no complications, and from these, there was only 1 case with trisomy 18. All pregnant women had level II scan. There were 5 cases with abnormalities (1 cystic hygroma, 1 diaphragmatic hernia, 1 with talipes, 1 anencephalic and two with hydrops). We couldn't diagnose prenataly 1 case with coarctation of the aorta, 1 anorectal atresia, 1 microcephaly and 3 with Down Syndrome. All the other women delivered babies with normal anatomy. As far as the cost is concerned, there was no extra charge for ultrasound examinations. Conclusion Office ultrasonography is feasible after long‐term training and experience. Acknowledgements W. R. Lees and J. C. Hobbins.