Nuchal Translucency (NT Scan)

Pregnancy is a special journey filled with excitement and important milestones to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health and well-being. One important step in this journey is the Nuchal Translucency (NT) Scan—a safe and simple prenatal screening test performed early in pregnancy. This scan offers valuable insights into your baby’s development and helps evaluate the risk of certain genetic conditions. At Apollo Cradle, Hyderabad - Jubilee Hills, we’re here to support you with expert care and guidance. Explore everything you need to know about the NT scan, from its procedure and benefits to preparation tips and results.

What is Nuchal Translucency Scan?

A nuchal translucency scan is a simple and safe ultrasound test performed during early pregnancy, usually between 11 and 14 weeks. It measures the thickness of a fluid-filled area at the back of a baby’s neck, known as the nuchal fold. This measurement helps assess the baby’s risk of certain genetic conditions, such as Down syndrome (trisomy 21), Patau syndrome (trisomy 13), and Edwards syndrome (trisomy 18). A higher NT measurement may also indicate a greater chance of congenital heart problems.

In addition to measuring the NT, the scan examines some key features of the baby’s developing anatomy. The NT scan is often combined with a blood test to give a more accurate assessment of the baby’s risk for these conditions.

This non-invasive screening test is a standard part of early prenatal care and helps determine if the baby is likely or unlikely to have genetic or structural conditions. The results help healthcare providers decide the next steps in care or testing if needed.

In Which Week of Pregnancy is the NT Scan Typically Performed?

The best NT scan time is between 11 and 14 weeks of pregnancy. During this time, the fluid behind the baby’s neck can be measured accurately to assess the risk of certain genetic conditions.

If you’re considering an NT scan, talk to your healthcare provider. They can help determine if the test is suitable for you based on your health and risk factors.

Who Should Have an NT Scan?

The following factors may make a healthcare provider recommend an NT scan during pregnancy:

• Women who are 35 or older at the time of delivery may be advised to have an NT scan, as the risk of certain chromosomal conditions increases with age.

• If a woman has previously had a baby with a chromosomal condition, she may be recommended to have an NT pregnancy scan.

• Women with a family history of certain genetic conditions may be advised to have the scan.

• Women with medical conditions like diabetes might also be recommended to have an NT scan USG.

• If a woman has had complications in previous pregnancies, like preeclampsia or pregnancy loss, she might be recommended for a nuchal translucency test.

Why is the NT Scan Important During Pregnancy?

The NT scan during pregnancy is an important prenatal screening test that offers essential information about the baby’s health and development. Here’s why it’s important:

• Early Detection of Potential Health Issues:

The NT pregnancy scan can identify signs of chromosomal conditions, like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome, early in pregnancy, allowing for timely follow-up care.

• Safe and Non-Invasive:

The test uses ultrasound technology, which is completely safe for both the mother and the baby, making it a reliable screening tool without any risk.

• Guides Decision-Making for Further Testing:

If the NT ultrasound scan shows an abnormal result, it can help healthcare providers decide if additional tests, such as Non-Invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT) or amniocentesis, are necessary for further evaluation.

• Provides Reassurance to Parents:

A normal result can give parents peace of mind by confirming that the baby is developing well and has a low risk of certain genetic conditions.

• Helps Track Early Fetal Development:

In addition to measuring the nuchal translucency, the scan also checks for basic signs of the baby’s anatomy, giving an early view of how the baby is growing.

• Part of Routine Prenatal Screening:

The NT scan procedure is a standard and recommended part of prenatal care, helping to ensure the health of both the mother and baby.

Is NT Screening in Pregnancy Associated with Any Risks?

The NT screening is a safe and non-invasive test, with no known risks to the mother or baby. It uses ultrasound technology to measure the fluid behind the baby’s neck, which poses no harm.

NT Scan Procedure: Step-by-Step Guide

The NT scan is a simple ultrasound test usually done at a hospital or maternity clinic.

First, you’ll lie on a table, and a clear gel will be applied to your abdomen. This gel helps the ultrasound probe, called a transducer, move smoothly over your skin to take pictures of your baby.

Next, the healthcare provider will measure the nuchal translucency (the fluid behind your baby’s neck). They will also measure the crown-rump length (CRL) to check how far along the pregnancy is.

The whole NT scan procedure takes about 20-30 minutes. Afterwards, the images and measurements will be reviewed to check your baby’s risk for chromosomal conditions.

It’s important to remember that since the NT scan is a screening test, not a diagnostic test, an abnormal result doesn’t mean your baby has a condition. Further testing may be needed for a clearer diagnosis.

How Can One Prepare for a Nuchal Translucency Scan?

Here are some simple tips to help you prepare for your NT ultrasound scan:

• Drink water before the scan to ensure a full bladder, which helps get clearer images.

• Avoid applying lotion or cream to your abdomen before the scan.

• Wear loose, comfortable clothes that make it easy to access your abdomen.

• Let your doctor know about any family history of genetic conditions.

• If you have any questions or concerns, ask the healthcare provider before the scan.

• Stay calm and relaxed during the procedure, as it’s painless and safe.

• Consider bringing a partner or friend for support.

Possible Results of the Nuchal Translucency Test

The results of a nuchal translucency scan can be either normal or abnormal.

A normal NT measurement is usually between 1.0 and 3.5 millimetres (mm), though this can vary depending on how far along the pregnancy is. A normal result suggests the baby is at low risk for certain chromosomal conditions like Down syndrome, Edwards syndrome, and Patau syndrome.

An abnormal NT measurement is typically greater than 3.5 mm, though this can also vary with the baby's gestational age. An abnormal result doesn’t mean the baby has a chromosomal condition, but it indicates a higher risk.

How Accurate is the Nuchal Translucency Test?

Nuchal translucency scans can find about 70% of Down syndrome cases on their own. However, many healthcare providers combine these NT ultrasounds with blood tests. When both the NT scan and first-trimester blood tests are used together, the accuracy of detecting conditions increases to about 95%.

How Much Does an NT Scan Cost?

The NT scan usually costs between ₹900 and ₹2,500 or more, depending on where you are, the doctor, and if it's included in a bigger screening package. It’s best to check with your healthcare provider for the exact cost of an NT scan.

The Bottom Line

The NT scan is an important test that helps detect chromosomal issues and other abnormalities in a baby early in pregnancy. It is safe, non-invasive, and widely recommended by medical experts. However, it’s essential to understand that the NT scan has its limits and should be used along with other tests to make well-informed decisions about pregnancy care.

To book an appointment at Apollo Cradle’s Maternity Hospital in Hyderabad - Jubilee Hills, call 1860-500-4424. We are here to connect you with the leading obstetricians and best paediatricians in Hyderabad, who are ready to assist you and provide expert care for all your needs.

Request an appointment at Apollo Cradle, Hyderabad - Jubilee Hills. Call 1860-500-4424 to book an appointment.