CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 · Journal of Fetal Medicine 2014; 01(02): 59-73
DOI: 10.1007/s40556-014-0019-6
Practice Guideline

The Second Trimester Obstetric Scan (7 + 3 = 10): A Rational Approach (Including the “Rule of Three”)

Seshadri Suresh
1   Department of Fetal Medicine, Mediscan Systems, 600004, 197, Natesan Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
,
Indrani Suresh
1   Department of Fetal Medicine, Mediscan Systems, 600004, 197, Natesan Road, Mylapore, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India
› Author Affiliations

Abstract

The second trimester targeted scan is done between 18 and 20 weeks. The primary objective of this scan is to do a detailed anatomical evaluation of the fetus and to maximize the detection of anomalies that may be present at this stage. A systematic method of ultrasound scanning of the fetus will ensure that a reasonably complete examination of the fetus is accomplished. A “rule of three” approach helps in ensuring that no major structures are missed out during the scan. It is a simple “checklist” approach which can be easily remembered. It not only helps in standardized training and performance but also helps in a systematic audit when anomalies are missed.



Publication History

Received: 21 October 2014

Accepted: 24 October 2014

Article published online:
08 May 2023

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