The comparison of fetal behavior in high risk and normal pregnancies assessed by four dimensional ultrasound

Abstract

Objective. We compared fetal behavior (FB) in high risk and normal pregnancies using four dimensional ultrasound (4DUS).

Methods. For assessment of FB in high risk and normal pregnancies, we used a scoring system of Kurjak's antenatal neurological test (KANET). The newborns were assessed by a postnatal neurological test, Amiel-Tison neurological assessment at term (ATNAT). The scores of KANET in high risk (N = 116) and in normal pregnancies (N = 110) were compared. After delivery, the results of KANET from both groups were compared with ATNAT test.

Results. There was a statistically significant difference between group of high risk and normal pregnancies, for 8 out of 10 parameters in KANET: isolated anteflection of the head, eye blinking, facial expressions, mouth movements, isolated hand movement, hand to face movement, fist and finger movements, general movements. There was no difference for cranial sutures and isolated leg movements. Comparison of KANET and ATNAT showed statistically significant, moderate correlation between the two tests, which means that the neuropediatric exam (ATNAT) confirmed the prenatal 4DUS finding (KANET).

Conclusion. The difference of FB between the high risk and normal pregnancies was evident. These preliminary results are promising but further studies have to be done before the test could be recommended for wider clinical practice.

Keywords:

• Fetal behavior
• fetal movements
• fetal neurological risk
• prenatal neurological test
• four dimensional ultrasound