B-Level ultrasound scan

The B-level Ultrasound scan is performed at 20-23 weeks and includes a series of measurements to control the development and calculation of fetal weight, placental control, assessment of amniotic fluid and detailed inspection of the fetal organs for congenital abnormalities. The cranium, brain, face, spine, thorax, heart, abdomen, kidneys, bladder, arms and legs are examined. About 70% of serious birth defecits can be detected with the help of this detailed ultrasound scan. Unfortunately, no ultrasound scan, no matter how detailed and comprehensive, can eliminate the entirety of abnormalities or guarantee the birth of a normal healthy child.

The B-level Ultrasound scan also includes screening for markers (signs) of chromosomal abnormalities, such as Down’s syndrome. In this way the B-level ultrasound scan complements the ultrasound scan of 11-14 weeks in the final assessment of the likelihood of Down’s syndrome.