4D Ultrasound of Fetal Facial Expressions in Low and High-Risk Pregnancies as an Indicator of Fetal Neuro-Behavior in Last Trimester

Background: The advancement of four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound allows for not only greater observation of foetal anatomy but also real-time analysis of foetal behaviour. The goal of this study was to use 4D ultrasonography of foetal facial expressions in the last trimester to assess foetal neuro-behavior in low and high-risk pregnancies.

Methods: This prospective study enrolled 50 pregnant females at their last trimester with high-risk pregnancies and with intrauterine growth restriction. Pregnant females were divided into two equal groups, one was pregnant females with low-risk pregnancy and the other group was pregnant females with high-risk pregnancy. All patients were subjected to full history taking and 2D and 4D ultrasound examination.

Results: Cranial sutures and head circumference, post-partum follow up and total KANET score were significantly different between two groups (P<0.001). Post-partum follow-up and total KANET score of high-risk subgroups were significantly different (P<0.001).

Conclusions: 4D ultrasound is considered now a great tool to evaluate foetal neuro-behaviour in low and high-risk pregnancies and to predict the neurological outcomes through foetal facial expressions in the last trimester.