Ultrasound examination of the fetus to detect congenital defects and chromosomal disorders
First trimester – nuchal translucency (NT) scanning by an accredited sonographer (week 13)
Nuchal translucency (NT) measurement and ultrasound examination for the most common fetal morphological defects can be performed at our accredited centre certified by the FMF London at the patient’s own request. Examination at our accredited FMF London centre increases the detection rate of Down syndrome up to 95%, reduces the need for invasive procedures (amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling), and enables earlier detection of congenital defects. It is possible to calculate the risk, for example, of Down syndrome as early as in the first trimester (week 13); in case of high risk, it is possible to perform chorionic villus sampling – CVS (taking a sample of the placenta) and Array CGH analysis. For patients with a moderately increased risk and normal ultrasound finding, it is possible to perform non-invasive testing (NIPT). For all other patients (i.e. for all women who have not undergone sampling of the placenta in the first trimester or NIPT), it is recommended to add the collection for AFP, HCG, uE3 from week 14+0 of pregnancy by their gynaecologist – i.e. perform a complete integrated sequential test!
The nuchal translucency (NT) scanning and the sequential integrated test increase the detection rate of Down syndrome to 95% (sequential integrated test including NT). The biochemical integrated test without NT has a detection rate of 90% (serum integrated test).
The integrated test has a higher detection rate for Down syndrome than the combined test in the first trimester (by 5-10%). In addition, it also includes the AFP, i.e. detects also spina bifida and abdominal wall defects.
Examination at the patient’s own request, including screening for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction (the most common pregnancy complications) – price CZK 2,200.
The examination price includes 2 black-and-white photographs of the fetus.
The nuchal translucency (NT) scanning is covered by health insurance for examination due to medical indication.