4D ultraound pregnancy

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4D scans

Fetal Medicine at the RVI

We can confidently say that, no-one in the North of England has more experience with 4D ultrasound

than we have at the RVI.

In 2003, we were the first to introduce 4D ultrasound to the region.
This has given us years of experience using 4D ultrasound for both straightforward and complicated pregnancies.
We recently published a new technique for using this technology to rule out or confirm whether a baby has cleft lip and palate.

When is the best time?
Experience has shown that the best 4D views are achieved between 26 and 29 weeks. 27 weeks seems to be the best time for most people. At this stage of pregnancy, there an ideal balance between the amount of fluid around the baby, the size of the baby, and the chance that there will be enough room so that we can clearly see the baby's face.

Why do we not recommend an earlier scan?

Although we are quite capable of getting good quality 4D scan images earlier than 26 weeks, the baby will not be as 'chubby' and views are likely to be disappointing.
There is one exception to this rule, twins! Because there is even less space around twins (and they lie in each other's way), we recommend a slightly early time of 24-26 weeks.

What if we cannot see the baby?

Usually after a short wait the baby's position has changed and we can repeat the scan. for about 1 in 5 times it is necessary to return for a further scan (without charge) in a week or so in order to achieve clear views.

What's included with the scan

DVD

DVD recording of the entire scan

We record the whole scan onto a DVD. This is not copy protected so you may make additional copies at home if you have the computer software. DVD+R seem to offer the greatest flexibility and will play on most computers with a DVD drive. They will also play on most recent DVD players. If you would rather the DVD-R format is used please let us know at the start of the scan.

CD

CD of still images

Rather than charge for individual images we will give you a CD of all of the images (usually 15-20) so that you may make as many copies as you wish.

IMAGES

Thermal printout of still images

Typically 15-20 images are printed out in black and white at the time of the scan. All of these images will also be copied onto the CD in the colour format for you to print out at home.

Fetal Sexing

Examination of the likely sex of the baby

If you do not wish to risk seeing the sex of the baby during the 4D scan please let us know at the start of the scan.

Growth Scan

Measurements to estimate the size of the baby

This is important to maximize the benefits of your scan. Without an estimate of the size of the baby especially small or large babies might be missed.

Report

A printed record for your hand-held notes

This provides a record of the scan including the estimated weight of the baby.

Rather than charge for separate items we have included everything under one price. This allows us to concentrate on obtaining the best moving and still images. Because you get every image on a CD and the DVD is not copy protected, you can use these on your own computer and make as many copies as you wish.

The price for the 4D scan package is £200.