What is 3D ultrasound?
A three-dimensional ultrasound is an image created by
processing multiple 2-dimensional images in order to
get depth to the picture. It uses simple, safe ultrasound
waves, which are then processed by high powered
computer technology. Then, the images are displayed
on a large screen for you to appreciate.
What is 4D ultrasound?
4D Ultrasound takes multiple 2-dimensional ultrasound
images, creates a 3-dimensional image and then does
this repeatedly so that, over time, you can see the
movements of the fetus in three dimensions. The fourth
dimension is time. So you can see live movements of
the baby in-utero, like a video.
What are the benefits of 3D?
Three-dimensional imaging provides several important
benefits over 2D imaging, but it does not replace 2D
ultrasound. Surface rendering with 3D provides beautiful
images of the surface of the face, tummy or spine.
It can show up problems like a cleft lip, an abdominal
hernia or a spina bifida with amazing clarity.
Therefore, the parents can recognise what the doctor
is worried about. The surgeons also appreciate the
better view and find it easier to advise the parents
about the likely outcome for the baby.
Why do 2D first?
While we are happy to do 3D and 4D scanning for you,
we believe that it is also important that we find out if
there are any problems with the baby first. Therefore, all
of our sonographers are fully qualified in ultrasound, with
special skills and training in obstetric ultrasound. We
always do a comprehensive assessment of the baby’s
growth and wellbeing at the same examination.
What are the benefits of 4D?
Four-dimensional imaging enables us to watch fetal
behaviour, and see the movements or lack of movements
at fetal joints. This will have benefits when trying
to classify joint and skeletal problems like club foot. Of
course four-dimensional imaging also allows us to gaze
at the baby’s face and see fetal swallowing, fetal
breathing and different facial expressions.
Is it safe?
Yes. 3D and 4D ultrasound use sound waves, just like
ordinary 2D ultrasound. Numerous studies over several
decades, have shown that there is no detrimental
effect on the baby of antenatal ultrasound.
Will the baby feel it?
Not to our knowledge.
Will I get to see the baby’s face?
We usually manage to get gorgeous baby photos.
However, the picture is affected a lot by the position of
the baby. If it is head down and facing your spine, we
only get to see its back. Sometimes it takes persistence
and patience to see the baby when it is facing up. The
best time to get the baby in a good position is from
about 24 weeks gestation to 34 weeks gestation. Also,
before the third trimester, most babies have little
sub-cutaneous fat. They can look a little bony.
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Dr Philippa Ramsay MBBS FRANZCOG DDU COGU
Dr Linda Atkins MBBS FRANZCOG DDU
Dr Joanne Ludlow MBChB FRANZCOG FRCOG DDU
Dr Karen Mizia MBBS BSc FRANZCOG DDU
Dr Indika Alahakoon MBBS FRANZCOG DDU CMFM
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