Basic Versus Detailed Sonography

Objective. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of restrictive versus routine use of “detailed” second‐trimester sonography. Methods. Records of singleton pregnancies undergoing evaluation from 2004 to 2008 were reviewed. A detailed examination ( Current Procedural Terminology [ CPT ] code 76811) was routinely performed on all patients. Major structural abnormalities were categorized on the basis of whether the structure would be included in a “basic” examination ( CPT code 76805). Risk factors for anomalies were identified. The Fisher exact test and Student t test were used for statistical comparison. Results. Major anomalies were identified in 218 patients, 75 of whom elected to undergo abortion. In 88 patients (40.4%), the abnormal structure would not be included in a basic examination. Risk factors were not more prevalent in those with anomalies requiring a detailed examination for diagnosis or in those patients who chose to undergo abortion. Conclusions. Restricting detailed evaluation to those with risk factors would have prevented detection of a substantial proportion of anomalies.