J Lalor1, D Devane, P McParland. 1. School of Nursing and Midwifery, Trinity College Dublin, 24, D'Olier Street, Dublin 2, Ireland. j.lalor@tcd.ie
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Since 1997, the RCOG have recommended that ultrasound screening for fetal abnormality in pregnancy should be offered to all women. AIM: This study describes the practices and service provision of ultrasound screening for fetal abnormality in Ireland. METHODS: A national survey of all maternity units providing an obstetric ultrasound service (n = 21) was undertaken. RESULTS: All units responded to the survey. First trimester ultrasound for dating was performed routinely in 57% of units. Second trimester ultrasound screening for fetal anomaly was available either routinely or selectively in all units. Wide variations in the management of a pregnancy after an adverse diagnosis were observed. CONCLUSION: This survey indicates a wide variation in the use of ultrasound to screen for fetal abnormality. Recommendations are made to improve the service through the use of a standard protocol to examine fetal structures. A national debate on screening for fetal abnormality is required urgently.
BACKGROUND: Since 1997, the RCOG have recommended that ultrasound screening for fetal abnormality in pregnancy should be offered to all women. AIM: This study describes the practices and service provision of ultrasound screening for fetal abnormality in Ireland. METHODS: A national survey of all maternity units providing an obstetric ultrasound service (n = 21) was undertaken. RESULTS: All units responded to the survey. First trimester ultrasound for dating was performed routinely in 57% of units. Second trimester ultrasound screening for fetal anomaly was available either routinely or selectively in all units. Wide variations in the management of a pregnancy after an adverse diagnosis were observed. CONCLUSION: This survey indicates a wide variation in the use of ultrasound to screen for fetal abnormality. Recommendations are made to improve the service through the use of a standard protocol to examine fetal structures. A national debate on screening for fetal abnormality is required urgently.
Authors: E R Guzman; C Walters; C V Ananth; C O'Reilly-Green; C W Benito; A Palermo; A M Vintzileos Journal: Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol Date: 2001-09 Impact factor: 7.299
Authors: Jo Garcia; Leanne Bricker; Jane Henderson; Marie-Anne Martin; Miranda Mugford; Jim Nielson; Tracy Roberts Journal: Birth Date: 2002-12 Impact factor: 3.689