Impact of maternal obesity on procedure of mid-trimester anomaly scan

Abstract

A maternal body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m² increases the risk of giving birth to a baby with an anatomical congenital anomaly. Such anomalies can be detected prior to birth using ultrasound as a screening modality. This study documents the impact of maternal obesity on image quality and service provision of the mid-trimester fetal anomaly scan. A prospective observational study of 327 pregnant women demonstrated 21% of women were obese. In this group, sub-optimal views of fetal anatomy and consequent requirement for re-appointment were all significantly greater. We conclude that obese women require information regarding reduced sensitivity of the 20-week anomaly scan. The increasing prevalence of obesity will have a significant effect on resources for maternity ultrasound departments.

Keywords:

• Anomaly scan
• fetal anomalies
• maternal obesity
• prenatal ultrasound
• visualisation

Acknowledgements

We would like to thank Margaret Mills (Superintendent radiographer) and her staff for their contribution to our study by collecting data. We also thank Mr Mario Hair for statistical analysis.

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.