Patient Information
Sunshine Coast Radiology specialises in the following examinations:
Obstetric Ultrasound
Obstetric ultrasound examinations including nuchal translucency are performed at Sunshine Coast Radiology. It is important to note prior preparation is required.
Nuchal Translucency Scans
There are two functions to the Nuchal Translucency scan. The first is a screening test for Down's syndrome, Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18, and the second is to establish who has a high risk pregnancy with regards to Down's syndrome, Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18.
With the use of ultrasound between the gestational ages of 11 weeks 3 days and 13 weeks 6 days, the thickness at the back of your baby's neck is measured. This measurement is very specific and only trained accredited operators are able to do this scan. More than one measurement is usually taken and the thickest measurement is used in conjunction with your blood results to establish a risk specific to your baby having Down's syndrome, Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18. Therefore, the Nuchal Translucency scan does not diagnose your baby as having these genetic abnormalities but establishes a risk.
The Nuchal Translucency measurement in combination with your blood test results gives a 90% accuracy in the detection rate for Down's syndrome, Trisomy 13 and Trisomy 18. The data gathered from the scan, blood test results and personal information is entered into a dedicated computer program. The program then calculates either a low risk or high risk outcome. A low risk outcome usually means that no invasive testing is required and you would return for your routine morphology scan at 18-20 weeks. A high risk outcome suggests that further testing may be required to diagnose the abnormality but these options will be explained to you in depth by your specialist or referring doctor if the need arises.
The results of your scan are sent to your referring doctor and they will discuss the results with you at your next appointment. It is important that you follow up these results with your referring doctor.
How the scan is performed
The scan is performed via ultrasound. In order to take an accurate measurement your baby needs to be in a very specific position to meet all the criteria for an accurate measurement. Sometimes this takes time and on the rare occasion you may be asked to rebook at no further cost due to baby being uncooperative. Every effort is made to take the most accurate measurement possible.
As a licenced and accredited centre for nuchal translucencies our practice is audited on the measurements that are taken from your baby and others. This is a non-identifying procedure to maintain the highest possible benchmark of practise.
The results are generated from the programme software. The radiologist then formally reports these results which are then forwarded to your referring doctor. Your results will be kept on file for future follow-up if the need arises and auditing purposes.