Anomaly Scan 

Overview of the Anomaly Scan

The anomaly scan, also known as the 20-week ultrasound or foetal anomaly scan, is a crucial part of prenatal care performed between 18 and 22 weeks of pregnancy. This comprehensive USG anomaly scan serves to evaluate the development of the foetal anatomy, including the brain, spine, heart, face, abdomen, and limbs. The scan also assesses the placenta's position and the amniotic fluid volume. The primary purpose of the anomaly scan during pregnancy is to detect any structural abnormalities or congenital disorders, allowing for early intervention and informed decision-making. By providing detailed images of the foetus, the early anomaly scan helps doctors monitor the pregnancy's progress and ensure the best possible care for both the mother and the baby.

Cost of Anomaly Scan

The anomaly scan cost in India varies depending on factors such as the healthcare facility, location, and the expertise of the medical professionals involved. In public hospitals or government-run facilities, the anomaly scan price may be significantly lower or even subsidised. However, in private hospitals or clinics, the anomaly scan cost can range from ₹2,000 to ₹10,000 or more, depending on the specific services offered and the doctor's fees.

Use of Anomaly Scan

The foetal anomaly scan is a vital tool for diagnosing various foetal and maternal conditions. Some of the key conditions it can help identify include:

• Congenital Heart Defects: The anomaly scan during pregnancy examines the foetal heart structure, allowing for the detection of serious cardiac abnormalities.
• Spinal Abnormalities: The USG anomaly scan visualises the foetal spine, enabling the detection of open spina bifida in about 9 out of 10 cases.
• Cleft Lip and Palate: The early anomaly scan examines the foetal face, allowing for the detection of these facial abnormalities.
• Renal Abnormalities: The scan assesses the foetal kidneys, enabling the detection of the absence of both kidneys.
• Diaphragmatic Hernia: The scan evaluates the foetal diaphragm and abdominal contents, helping to detect hernias.
• Abdominal Wall Defects: The scan examines the foetal abdomen, enabling the detection of intestinal or organ protrusion.
• Lethal Skeletal Dysplasias: The anomaly scan during pregnancy assesses the foetal skeleton, helping to identify severe bone disorders.
• Chromosomal Abnormalities: The scan looks for soft markers and structural abnormalities that may indicate these conditions (such as Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome), although further testing may be required.

What is the Procedure for Anomaly Scan?

The procedure for the USG anomaly scan involves several steps to ensure a thorough evaluation of the foetal anatomy and maternal pelvic organs:

• Preparation: The patient lies on a couch and exposes their abdomen. A special gel is applied to ensure good contact between the skin and the ultrasound probe.
• Scan Process: A transducer is moved across the abdomen to emit high-frequency sound waves that create images of the foetus on a monitor. The scan typically takes 30 to 40 minutes, depending on factors like the baby's position and movement.
• Evaluation: The sonographer examines various aspects of foetal development, including the brain, spinal cord, face, heart, abdomen, kidneys, bladder, arms, and legs. The anomaly scan during pregnancy also assesses the placenta, amniotic fluid volume, and maternal pelvic organs.
• Results: The sonographer provides immediate feedback on the anomaly scan report results. If any anomalies are detected, further tests or a second opinion may be recommended.

How to Prepare for Anomaly Scan

To ensure the best possible results from your early anomaly scan, follow these simple preparation steps:

• Drink plenty of water before the scan to ensure a full bladder, which helps to improve the clarity of the images.
  Wear loose, comfortable clothing that allows easy access to your abdomen.
• Inform your doctor about any relevant medical history or concerns you may have.
• Consider bringing a family member or friend for support during the scan, if allowed by the healthcare facility.

Who Can Opt for Anomaly Scan

The foetal anomaly scan is a routine part of prenatal care and is recommended for all pregnant women between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation. However, certain factors may indicate a higher need for this scan:

• Advanced maternal age (35 years or older)
• Family history of congenital disorders or genetic conditions
• Previous pregnancy with structural abnormalities or chromosomal disorders
• Maternal medical conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, or autoimmune disorders
• Abnormal results from previous prenatal screening tests, such as the first-trimester combined screening or the quad screen

Book an Anomaly Scan Online at Apollo 24|7

Booking an anomaly scan gender prediction test online at Apollo 24|7 is a simple and convenient process. Follow these steps to schedule your scan:

• Visit the Apollo 24|7 website or download the mobile app.
• Select the 'Diagnostic Tests' option and choose 'foetal anomaly scan' or 'USG anomaly scan' from the list of available tests.
• Enter your location to find the nearest Apollo 24|7 diagnostic centre or partner clinic.
• Choose a convenient date and time slot for your anomaly scan gender prediction.
• Provide the necessary personal and medical details, and complete the payment process securely online.
• You will receive a confirmation of your successful booking via your registered email ID and phone number.