King Abdul-Aziz University
Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences
Diagnostic Radiology Department
4D Ultrasound Equipments Diffusion
in Jeddah City
Research conducted by :
Abrar Abdul- Elah Alfattani
4th year medical technology
Diagnostic Radiology
Supervised by :
Dr. Njlaa M. Al-Sayed.
Mr. Nabeel Mishah.
JEDDAH - SAUDI ARABIA
1429/2008
‫بسم هللا الرحمن الرحيم‬
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‫خلقناه نطفة في قرار مكين * ثم خلقنا النطفة‬
‫علقةةة فقلقنةةا ال لقةةة ملةةاة فقلقنةةا الملةةاة‬
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‫آخر فتبارك هللا أحسن القالقين * }}‬
‫صدق هللا العظيم‪...‬‬
‫سورة المؤمنون‪ ..‬آية (‪)۱٤ – ۱۲‬‬
‫‪4D Ultrasound Equipments Diffusion‬‬
‫‪in Jeddah City‬‬
By:
Abrar Abdul –Elah Alfattani
A project submitted in partial
fulfilment of the requirements for
the degree of Bsc. In diagnostic
imaging department.
Faculty of Applied Medical Science
King Abdul Aziz University
Jeddah – Saudi Arabia
1429 A.H / June 2008 A.G
4D Ultrasound Equipments Diffusion
in Jeddah City
By:
Abrar Abdul –Elah Alfattani
We certify that we have read
this project and that in our opinion
is fully adequate in scope and
quality as a project for the degree
of Bsc.
Project supervised:
Dr.Njlaa M. Al-Sayed.
Mr.Nabeel Mishah.
………….
…………
4D Ultrasound Equipments Diffusion
in Jeddah City
By:
Abrar Abdul –Elah Alfattani
This project has been approved
and accepted in partial fulfilment
of the requirements for the degree
of Bsc.
Dr. Bhaa Aldeen => …………… Examiner.
Dr. Seddig Jastanniah => ………….. Head of exam committee.
Dr. Sattam Lingawi => ……… Chairman of diagnostic
imaging.
Dedication
I would like to dedicate this research to my
dear parents who supported me & guided my
thoughts, to my lovely sisters & brothers, to my
teachers for their great help , and to all my
colleagues & friend who truly helped me making
my experience a wonderful one .
Acknowledgment
♠ First of all, I would like to thank" Allah" for
helping me to reach this level of education &
facilitate to me the way to reach to the high degree.
♠ Then I would like to thank my lovely parents who
did a lot for me & gave me full chance to reach to my
demand.
♠ At the end, I would like to thank all doctors &
supervisors who supported me & helped me to finish
my research.
Thanks to all radiology staff & all my colleagues who
give us this opportunity and chance through which we
got a lot of experiences & knowledge , and allow us to
deal & communicate with different levels in the
community .
Thanks a lot for all, and I wish to all my colleagues
nice future.
Content
Titele
Page
Abstract
……………………………………….……........1
Motivation
………………………………….………...….1
Objective
……………………………………….……..…1
Introduction
……………………………………………...2
The definition of 4D Ultrasound
…………………...……3
Equipment
..................................................................…...4
Technique
…………………………………………..……4
Clinical
use………………………………………….……5
3D & 4D clinical advantages
…………………………….6
Benefits of 3D & 4D
Ultrasound…………………………6
Photos of the babies taken before & after
delivery………7
The main factors that affect the quality of the
images…...8
The difference between 2D & 4D Ultrasound
…………..9
References
……………………………………………...12
Methodology
……………………………………………14
Survey
questionnaire……………………………………15
Analysis &
Result…………………………………….....18
Discussion
………………………………………………22
Conclusion & recommendation
…………………...……26
Appendix (1)
……………………………………………27
Appendix (2)
……………………………………………31
Appendix (3)
…………………………………………....34
4D Ultrasound in Arabic
………………………………..39
Abstract
Nowadays the science & technology of medical imaging is highly
advanced in all diagnostic imaging fields all around the word, every day a
new imaging technology & techniques discovered by the scientist in which
will enhance the diagnostic accuracy of diseases.
For this reason, in my research I will study the diffusion of one of the
new technology introduced lately known as 4D ultrasound imaging where
we can use it for many clinical applications such as monitoring fetal
movement and body parts.
This technology is becoming more interesting for pregnant ladies since it
can help them to see there baby's facial expressions as live monitoring
even before delivery.
I think most of us know about 2D & 3D ultrasound, but few of us knows
about 4D Ultrasound, so I focus on this advanced technology in order to
gain the attention of medical professionals involved in pregnant women
healthcare delivery.
The aim of my research is to highlight the benefits & clinical advantages
of this 4D ultrasound technique over conventional 2D & 3D techniques in
Ultrasound.
Motivation
One of the reasons that motivated me to conduct this research is the
introduction of this new technology in the local market lately but it seems
that many hospitals within the kingdom of Saudi Arabia did not take the
initiative to implement it, it is only found in some advanced hospitals &
many medical professionals doesn't know about it.
Objective
My objective of my research is to highlight the necessity of 4D machine
and to measure the diffusion and penetration of this technology among
the hospitals within Jeddah city & to identify the obstacles facing the
introduction of this technology.
Literature review
Introduction:
In obstetrics, the ultrasound is an essential imaging tool used to
clearly visualize the fetus in the uterus.
Recent advances in fetus imaging have resulted in the introduction of
three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) ultrasound. Both used in
conjunction with traditional two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound imaging,
which has been in practice for more than 25 years, 3D/4D ultrasound
provides a higher resolution image in actual or “real” time. Such imaging is
especially useful for obstetricians who suspect structural abnormalities
and need to see specific surface renderings of a fetus. This 3D & 4D
ultrasound ( real time 3D) are becoming a clinical reality only now. (1, 2)
3D/4D ultrasound helps the bonding b/w the parents & their future
offspring, and consultants understand fetal pathology better & can plan
postnatal intervention better.
The volume measurement is better assessed with 3D & we can perform
studies that follow growth in order to decide medical or surgical
treatment. (3)
By this new technology we can observe different expressions and
movements of a fetal face during investigation of fetal behavior in the
second and the third trimester of normal pregnancies, as a probable
manifestation of fetal awareness. (4,5)
For more information see appendix (1)
Some of these facial expressions & movements include :
Yawning
Dancing
Sucking Thump
Boxing
Before I going in detail to the 4D ultrasound technique & what are the
advantages and benefits that we can get from it , first of all we must
know :
The definition of 4D ultrasound:
"4D"
is shorthand for "four-dimensional", a technique that allows
visualization of the unborn baby moving in real-time. 4D Ultrasound is the
latest ultrasound technology.
4D Ultrasound takes multiple 2-dimensional ultrasound images, creates a
3-dimensional image and then does this repeatedly so that, over time, you
can see the movements of the fetus in three dimensions. The fourth
dimension is time. So you can see live movements of
the baby in-utero, like a video. (6, 7, 8)
Equipment:
used equipments are known as real-time scanners,
With which a continues picture of the moving
fetus can be depicted on a monitor screen.
Very high frequency sound waves of between
3.5 to 7.0 megahertz are generally used for
this purpose. (9, 10)
Technique:
In conventional 2D ultrasound for an abdominal scan, ultrasound gel is
applied to the belly then the body is scanned
using a movable probe over the surface of
the abdomen.
This transducer is then used to send sound
waves into the body. The image received is made up of thin views or
“slices” of an image, only one slice may be seen at a time on the screen.
While informative, the image does not always give an adequate view of the
structure being studied. In 3D ultrasound, the technologist sweeps a
probe over the maternal abdomen. A computer takes multiple images and
renders a life-like 3D image.
With 4D ultrasound, the computer takes the images as multiple pictures
while the technician holds the probe still and simultaneously renders a 3D
image in real time on a monitor. The difference between the 3D and 4D is
that 4D is real-time imagery.
In most cases, the standard 2D ultrasound is taken, and then the
3D/4D scan capability is added if an abnormality is detected or
suspected. The 3D/4D is then focused on a specific area, not the whole
body, to provide the details needed to assess and diagnose a suspected
problem.(1,9,11)
There are limitations to adequate visualization of fetal anatomy with
3D/ 4D technologies. If there is inadequate amniotic fluid surrounding
the fetus, or if the fetus has its face in the posterior position in the
uterus, there will be difficulty visualizing structures and the face. (12)
Clinical uses:
The clinical use of this technology is an intense area of research
activity especially in fetal anomaly scanning, but there are also popular
uses that have been shown to improve fetal-maternal bonding. (13, 14, 15,
16, 17, 18)
3D & 4D clinical advantages:
The advantages of 3D/4D ultrasound in obstetrics are outlined including:
1) Improved understanding of normal fetal anatomy and fetal anomalies
by the parents.
2) Improved maternal-fetal bonding.
3) Enhanced diagnosis of fetal anomalies.
4) Precise identification of the nature, size and location of certain fetal
defects.
5) Precise volume measurement of organs with irregular shape.
6) Retrospective analysis, data exchange and education. Some specific
advantages of 3D/4D sonography are listed regarding its application in
the first trimester, for the diagnosis of fetal anomalies and for fetal
growth assessment.(19)
Benefits of 3D/4D Ultrasound:
You will be able to see amazingly realistic images of the baby and this
positive emotional experience will bring love, affection, respect for the
miracle of a new life and a sense of security into your family. The
expectant father becomes more connected to the child and more
emotionally involved in the pregnancy. Seeing the baby will reduce the
stress and anxiety for the mother and the rest of the family. It will bring
reassurance of the baby’s wellbeing. (20)
Photos of the babies taken before & after delivery:
Sleeping.
Tongue out
One mother said:" I really enjoyed my ultrasounds. I can't believe how
much she looks like the pictures. What a wonderful keepsake I have for
my daughter now. The only shocker was all the hair she has. Our first
daughter was blonde and bald. So we still had a big surprise". (21, 22)
To look at more testimonials see appendix (2)
*There are may be some questions coming in our mind & we want to know
the answer of it, so I will offer some of these questions to help us:
1- How safe is 3D/ 4D Ultrasound?
3D and 4D ultrasound use sound waves, just like ordinary 2D ultrasound.
Numerous studies over several decades have shown that there is no
detrimental effect on the baby of antenatal ultrasound. It uses simple,
safe ultrasound waves, which are then processed by high powered
computer technology.
Then, the images are displayed on a large screen for you to appreciate.(6)
(2) How long is the session?
20 minutes is the usual time for the Ultrasound exam.
(3) What is the earliest time that my baby’s gender can be
determined?
The earliest gestational age for gender determination is 16 weeks
(4 months). (20)
For more detail questions that could be asked directly from the patients
please see appendix (3)
The main factors that affect the quality of 3D/4D images
are:
1-Baby's Face Position: The baby should be looking up or to the side. If the baby is in a
difficult position, such as with the spine up or face looking down, it may be difficult to
obtain facial views. If this happens, the lady must changing her position, roll on her side,
or even have her walk to stimulate her baby to move to a favorable position.
2-Fluid In Front Of Baby's Face: The more amniotic fluid in front of the face, the
better the images. If the baby's face is right on the placenta or uterine wall without
fluid between them, then the images will be of less quality. Basically anything adjacent
to the face, such as cords or hands &
Feet can obstruct a clear facial photo. We recommend hydrating yourself by drinking
lots of water before your appointment.
3-Gestational Age: The younger the baby, the more skeletal appearance (18-23 weeks).
Since the baby is smaller with more amniotic fluid, you will see more of the baby, but
less details. The older the baby (26-34 weeks), the more fat they have which shows
more facial detail.
4-Maternal Body Habitus: The more tissues the ultrasound has to travel, the lower the
sometimes ultrasounds
waves are unable to penetrate through the abdominal tissue what causes
poor image quality. We recommend for heavyset mothers to have 3D/4D
Ultrasound after 28 weeks of pregnancy. (23)
image quality. We recommend 30-32 wks scan for plus size.
The difference between 2D& 4D ultrasound:
Conventional ultrasound, usually offered to mothers at 12 and 20
weeks,
produces
2D
images
of
the
developing
fetus.
These are very useful for helping doctors to measure and assess the
growth of the fetus, but convey very little information about
behavior.(24)
The regular two dimensional scan (2D) is in black and white and is used to
look inside organs, for example we can see the fetus inside the maternal
uterus, as well as see the internal organs of the fetus - It produces a
slice through the body.
The right handed figure is:
3D/4D Ultrasound.
The left handed figure is:
2D Ultrasound.
The three/four dimensional scan (3D/4D) is in color (sepia) and is called a
surface rendering type of scan. This is when only the outer layer of the
image is shown.
We use this for our bonding scan or to look for any soft tissue anomaly
e.g. cleft lip
The right handed figure is:
2D Ultrasound.
.
The left handed figure is:
3D/4D Ultrasound
The movement of the fetus is known as the 4th dimension (4D) and
movement is seen in real time. (26)
Both 2D& 4D methods are required for the assessment of early
fetal motor development & motor behavior. Several movement patterns
such as sideway bending, hiccup, breathing movements, mouth opening and
facial movements could be observed only by 2D USG .(27)
Facial activities and different forms of expression are easily
recognized by 4D USG.
4D USG is superior to 2D USG in the evaluation of complex facial activity
and expression . Among facial activities observed by 4D USG ,
simultaneous eyelid and mouth movements dominate b/w 30 & 33 weeks of
gestation , pure mouth movements such as mouth opening , tongue
expulsion , yawning and pouting are present but at a significantly lower
incidence . facial expressions such as smiling and scowling can be precisely
observed using 4D USG . (28)
4D ultrasound uses the same high frequency sound waves as 2D.
The difference is that instead of the sound wave being sent straight
down and reflected back, the waves are sent into the body at multiple
different angles. The reflected waves are then computer-processed to
reconstitute and produce the life-like image complete with movements. If
it was bread, you will see the whole loaf! It is awesome. The technology
has been there for a number of years now but it is the advent of
affordable sophisticated computing power that has made this possible at
the consumer level.(7)
References :
(1) www.firstbabymall.com/expecting/pregnancy/3dultrasound.htm (2) Less.W .ultrasound imaging in three and four dimensions. 2001
(3) ( Timor-Tritsch IE , Han E , Platt LD .Three- dimensional ultrasound experience
in obstetric).Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol. 2002
(4)http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/sites/entrez?Db=pubmed&Cmd=Search&Term=%22
Carrera%20JM%22%5BAuthor%5D&itool=EntrezSystem2.PEntrez.Pubmed.Pubmed
_ResultsPanel.Pubmed_RVAbstractPlusDrugs1
(5)www.layyous.com
(6) www.sah.org au /SUW/3d4d.html-9k
(7) www.4d-ultrasoundscan.co.uk/articles.htm (8) www.lifeissues.org/ultrasound/4Dindex.htm - 5k
(9) www.ob-ultrasound.net/images/4D.jpg
(10) www.fmgc.com.my/global/img/3d01i.jpg
(11) www.ogh.org/services/ultrasoundwoman1.jp
(12) ( Leung KY , Ngai CSW, Chan BC etal.Three-dimensional extended imaging: a
new display modality for Three-dimensional ultrasound examination . Ultrasound
Obstet Gynecol. 2005 ) .
(13)Benacerraf et al (2005). "Three- and 4-dimensional ultrasound in obstetrics and
gynecology: proceedings of the American institute of ultrasound in medicine
consensus conference"
(14)Benoit B, Chaoui R (2004). "Three-dimensional ultrasound with maximal mode
rendering: a novel technique for the diagnosis of bilateral or unilateral absence or hypoplasia
of nasal bones in second-trimester screening for Down syndrome"
(15)Krakow D, Williams III J, Poehl M, Rimoin DL, Platt LD (2003). "Use of threedimensional ultrasound imaging in the diagnosis of prenatal-onset skeletal dysplasias"
(16)Ji EK et al (473-477). "Effects of ultrasound on maternal-fetal bonding: a comparison of
two- and three-dimensional imaging"
(17) .www.carolinabirth.com/images/baby%20and%20fat
(18) .www.riversideonline.com/services/maternity/im
,Dimitrova V , 3D and 4D ultrasonography in obstetric. Markov DDimitrovR, (19)
Akush Ginekol (sofiia) .2007
(20) www.clearimage 4d ultrasound .com /faq.htm
) 21) www.beforethestork4d.com/before-after-gallery.asp - 9k
(22)www.storksviewultrasound.com/ - 25k
(23) www.accuviewimagingcenter.com/faqs.htm - 39k
(24) www.3d-4d-ultrasounds.com/news/womb.php
(25) www.ob-ultrasound.net
(26)www.babypremier.co.uk/Site-Content/Ultrasound
(27) ( Andonotopo W, Medic M, Salihagic-Kadic A etal.The assessment of fetal
behavior in early pregnancy : comparison between 2D and 4D sonogrphic scanning
.J Perinat Med 2005 ) .
(28) ( Kurjak A, Azumendi G , Vecek N etal. Fetal hand movements and facial
expression in normal pregnancy studied by four dimensional sonography . J Parinat
Med 2003 ).
Methodology
This study was done in the period from ( 20/4/2008) till ( 2/6/2008).
A questionnaire was designed compromising several questions to measure
the diffusion & availability of this technology.
About 16 hospitals selected for field survey and programmed visits were
arranged where I personally visited all hospitals and performed the
questionnaire by interviewing the radiologist & sonographers, then the
data collected were processed & reviewed.
These selected hospitals include:
1) King Abdul Aziz University Hospital (KAAUH).
2) King Fahad Military Hospital (KFMH).
3) Saudi German Hospital (SGH).
4) Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital (DSFH).
5) King Fahad General Hospital (KFGH).
6) Maternity & Children Hospital (MACH).
7) National Guard Hospital (NGH).
8) Doctor Ghassan N. Pharaon Hospital (DGNPH).
9) Dr.Erfan & Bagedo Hospital (DEABH).
10) International Medical Center (IMC).
11) King Faisal Specialist Hospital (KFSH).
12) Bakhsh Hospital (Bakhsh H).
13) Bugshan Hospital (Bugshan H).
14) United Doctors Hospital (UDH).
15) Mental Health Hospital (MHH).
16) AL-Thagher General hospital (Al- Thagher GH).
Here is a form of my questionnaire.
King Abdul-Aziz University
Faculty of Applied Medical Sciences
Diagnostic Radiology Department
"SURVEY QUESTIONAIR"
4D Ultrasound Equipments Diffusion in Jeddah City
[Section A]
1) Did you hear about 4D Obstetric US technology?
□ Yes
□ No
2) Do you have 4D technology option available in your US machine?
□ Yes
□ No
"if (Yes) please continue section A and /or B"
"If (No) please skip to section C"
3) How many ultrasound machines equipped with 4D technology in your department?
□1
□2
□3
□4
□5
4) From which vendor is your machine?
…………………………………………………………………………
5) Is it in use (or) not?
□Yes
□ No
" if (No) please skip to section [B]"
6) What are the major advantages of 4D technique which makes you prefer it on
clinical use?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
…………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………….
7) From your experience what are the cases that will benefit mostly from the use of
4D ultrasound?
…………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………
8) What is the most recommended stage of pregnancy to do this 4D technique for
better fetus position & enhanced accuracy?
……………………………………………………………………………….
9) What is the percentage of 4D technique among your daily conventional work load?
………………………………………………………………………………
-
If there is any added information that can help me in my project, please write
it down.
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………………………………………
………………………………………………………
Section [B]
For the hospitals that have the machine but not using this 4D technology
1) How many ultrasound machines equipped with 4D technology?
□1
□2
□3
□4
□5
2) What is the reason behind not using 4D technology?
□ Insufficient technicians .
□ There is no places to put the machine & work on it .
□ Lack of knowledge.
□ Lack of patients cases needs this imaging technology .
□ Lack of clinical experience .
□ Others causes ( mention it please ).
……………………………………………………………………………
Section [C]
For the hospitals that don’t have this machine:
1) What is the reason for not having this technology?
□ No funds.
□ No patient flow.
□ No experience.
□ No economical incentive.
□ Others (mention it please)
……………………………………………………….
2) Do you plan to acquire this technology in near future?
□ Yes
□ No
Thank you,
Research Conducted by:
Abrar Abdul-Elah Alfattani,4th year medical technology .
Supervised by:
Mr. Nabeel Mishah .
Analysis & Results
Results:
First:
A) 11 hospitals out of 16 selected hospitals in Jeddah city which were
mentioned above have the 4D obstetric ultrasound machine these
hospitals are:
1) Saudi German Hospital . (SGH)
2) Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital(DSFH)
3)Maternity & Children Hospital .(MACH)
4) National Guard Hospital .(NGH)
5) Doctor Ghassan N. Pharaon Hospital (DGNPH)
6) Dr.Erfan & Bagedo Hospital.(DEABH)
7) International Medical Center (IMC)
8) King Abdul Aziz University Hospital(KAAUH)
9) Bakhsh Hospital .(Bakhsh H)
10) Bugshan Hospital .(Bugshan H)
11) United Doctors Hospital.(UDH)
B) All of these hospitals are using the 4D ultrasound machine except one
hospital which is (KAAUH) it has only one machine but not in clinical use &
one of the private Hospitals which is (SGH) has 2 machines but only one in
clinical use while the other one under repair.
C) The rest five hospitals which do not have 4D ultrasound machine are:
1) King Faisal Specialist Hospital (KFSH)
2) King Fahad Military Hospital (KFMH)
3) King Fahad General Hospital (KFGH)
4) Mental Health Hospital (MHH)
5) AL-Thagher General Hospital.(AL-Thagher GH)
And this is represented by graphic (NO. 1)
N.B. its to be mentioned that the 1st 4D ultrasound done in KSA was at
2001 .
Second:
Statistic data was analyzed to identify the number of 4D ultrasound
machine equipped in each hospital and this is represented on a graph
attached (No. 2)
"Table: Hospitals names, Number of machines and vendors"
Name of the hospitals.
Number of 4D US
machines.
Vendor of the
machines.
SGH
2
GE, Philips
DSFH
4
3 "GE" , 1 "Philips"
MACH
1
GE
NGH
1 and "2" more will be
coming in the way.
Philips
NPH
1
Philips
DEABH
1
GE
IMC
1
KAAUH
1
Philips
Bakhsh H
2
2 "Philips"
Bugshan H
1
Isoate
UDH
1
Philips
Philips iu22
Total number:
Eighteen "18" (4D ultrasound machines) are available in these selected
hospitals.
Graphic ( No.1 ):
Number
Of hospitals
10
9
8
hospitals have 4D
machine & use it
7
6
hospital have it but
not use it
5
4
hospitals don’t have
it
3
2
1
0
The percentage of 4D Ultrasound Diffusion:
hospitals haveing
it and using it
%31
63%
hospitals haveing
it but not using it
6%
hospitals do not
have it
Graphic (No. 2):
Group 1
Represent the number of hospitals that have 1 (4D machine )
Group2
Represent the number of hospitals that have 2 ( 4D machine )
Group 3 
Represent the hospital that have 3 machines .
Group 4
Represent the hospital that have 4 machines.
Number
Of Hospitals
7
6
5
Group 1
4
Group2
3
Group3
Group 4
2
1
0
1
2
3
4
Number of machine
Discussion
Through this study, it was found that all sonographers & radiologists
working in ultrasound field already heard about "4D obstetric Ultrasound
Technology".
In order to be able to discuss the topic we need to discuss it from three
different prospective which are:
The answers that was collected from hospitals that have 4D
ultrasound machine & clinically using it.
 The answers that was collected from the hospitals that the
machine is available but not used clinically.
 The answers that was collected from the hospitals that don’t

have the machine.
For the hospitals that have 4D ultrasound machine& use it:
● The questionnaire started by asking the radiologist and /or ultrasound
operators about if they have the 4D machine or not.
Then I asked if they use it or not, and what are the advantages that
made them to prefer it in clinical use?
Some of them stated that it is more informative for congenital
anomalies in fetus like in the spine or in face, again more informative &
better delineation of gynecological-problems, masses and tumors & its
more amazing for pregnant ladies.
Another radiologist said: it's easy to diagnose, clear & easy to
differentiate veins & arteries and also we can exam the heart in more
details by Doppler & Duplex.
In addition, this new technology gave entertainment to the pregnant
mother, it allowed her to see her baby more clearly better than 2D & she
can see the movement as well as the facial expressions of her baby.
Also we can see the position of the fetus, this will satisfy the patient and
reassure the parents.
During my visits to the hospitals, I asked the radiologists according
to their experience for the cases that will benefit mostly from the use of
the 4D technique, some of them answers it more helpful for the
congenital anomaly survey, e.g.: cleft lip, kidney abnormality, abdominal
hernia, hydrocephalus, limbs abnormality, spine anomalies like (spina
bifida, meningeocele, myelocele) so we can take more accurate
measurements by this advanced technique.
● One of the technicians in private hospital was asked about the cases
that she faced during her work & could require 4D ultrasound, she said:
I didn’t face any abnormality until now for any patient that coming to me
which needed further evaluation by 4D ultrasound and she added that:
In fact the rate of the pregnant ladies that asked for this
technique was very little, and also some of these patients didn’t have any
idea about this new technology.
In addition we don't have good experience in 4D technology, and we didn’t
take enough courses for training.
● Among this research it was found that the most recommended stage of
pregnancy to do this 4D technique for better fetus position rang between
2nd & 3rd trimester ( actually from 6 to 7 month ) for adequate liquid
amnii & with the fetus in sagittal position .
One of the doctors said that we can catch the congenital anomalies & see
it clearly actually at 2nd trimester, and for face surface rendering will be
from (32 to 35 weeks).
● About the frequency of using 4D ultrasound machines it was found that
it is in the low percentage approximately around (5-10 %) for all hospitals
except 2 hospitals it was around 20% but it still in low percentage.
For the hospital that having the machine but not using it:
● Only one hospital from total number of hospitals included in my
research,
The reasons for not using it are: because its time consuming & also the
technician not have well clinical experience and no body learn them, so
they were not trained on it and of course this technology need practice.
For the hospitals that don’t having the machine:
5 out of 16 hospitals included in the research.
One of the hospitals , have only 3D in the machine and again not use it&
when I asked about the reason for that, their answer was the image not
appear clearly with 3D so we concern only on 2D .
Also we are don’t have enough technicians in the department only 2
available & this is small hospital no need for this & I think it is only used
in premier and large hospital.
In one of the famous hospitals, the reason for that the machine is not
available, but they did the training on demo machine.
One of the technicians said:
From my opinion it is important to acquire one machine because it helps in
the detection of some abnormalities.
In one of the semi-private & very well known hospitals, when asked the
radiologist why you are not using this advanced technology in such
advanced hospital?
He said: we are only have 3D machine, and this service is not important
for us & we concerning for diagnostic issue & no need for this imaging
option, and it is not in our future plane to use it, but if we need this
facility to any reason in the future then we will reconsider it , otherwise
no need to have it as of yet.
Other hospitals included in my research stated that they have the future
intention to acquire this 4D ultrasound technology.
I noticed in one of the hospitals in our list, that there is no obstetric
ultrasound department at all. So they are not in need to use 4D obstetric
ultrasound option.
● However, I think that 4D technology needs the technicians to practice
on it & get experience. Unfortunately During my tour to the hospitals, I
found most of technicians don’t have enough experience on this
technology & they were trained by them selves, no body learned them.
One of the doctors told me her opinion about this subject and said
"I think that 4D ultrasound machine is essential and should be available in
any hospital providing care to ante-natal".
Another doctor said about the same subject "We are not using it for
routine cases, we use 2D only. But in case that the parents requested this
service and wanted to see the movement of their baby, facial expression
we do offer this optional service.
Conclusion & recommendation
The 4D obstetric ultrasound is an advanced technology, and it can
be used for detecting abnormality of the fetus but it is still considered
as optional feature in ultrasound machine.
It was noticed that there was a wrong impression, that 4D
ultrasound is available & used in all large and well-equipped hospitals, but
from my research, I found that even in some premier hospitals they don’t
have the technology or the machine to do 4D techniques.
Although this recent technology was applied in most hospitals but
not considered as a promising technique for other hospitals that don’t
have it.
They think that it is not for that necessity to be there in the hospital.
Other hospitals that have the machine think that 2D and 3D USG
may be enough for diagnosis & 4D has only limited role in the diagnosis of
selected cases .
However, always keep in mind that an elective 4D ultrasound should
only be used to complement the diagnostic ultrasounds prescribed by the
physician, so its not separate technique & we can't do it until we do 2D
USG first. Elective 4D ultrasounds should never be used as a replacement
for ante-natal care.
I think this advanced technology is made for commercial use & to
satisfy parents but not of clinical importance other than fetal
abnormalities, it only gives the doctors the re-assurance & makes them
happy when they can demonstrate babies in normal pattern for the
parents, to satisfy their entertainment need.
(A)
The potential of four-dimensional (4D) ultrasonography in
the assessment of fetal awareness:
AIM: The aim of the study was to observe different expressions
and movements of a fetal face during investigation of fetal
behavior in the second and the third trimester of normal
pregnancies, as a probable manifestation of fetal awareness.
SUBJECTS AND METHODS: Over a 6-month period a study was
conducted in three centers in Zagreb, Croatia and in Barcelona and
Malaga, Spain. Women with singleton pregnancies (16-33 weeks)
who were referred for ultrasound check-up for determination of
gestational age, suspicious fetal malformations, polyhydramnios,
and/or the assessment of biophysical profile or other possible
pathology, were assigned to the study.
After regular two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound assessment at an
antenatal clinic, pregnant women were offered the possibility of
undergoing 4D ultrasound examination if the fetus and the mother
were considered "normal", i.e., if ultrasound and clinical assessment
were uneventful. If the newborn delivered at term had 1- and 5min Agar scores of 7 and 10, respectively, and if the newborn was
considered "term and normal" (normal spontaneous activity, normal
posture and tone, and presence of some primitive reflexes) at the
first and subsequent regular check-ups, the inclusion criteria were
deemed to have been met.
Out of 119 patients, 99 fulfilled the inclusion criteria, 40 of whom
were in the second, and 59 in the third trimester of pregnancy. A
Voluson 730 Expert system with a transabdominal 5-MHz
transducer was used for 4D ultrasonography. After regular 2D
scanning, the 4D mode was switched on, and a live 3D image was
reconstructed by selecting ideal 2D mid-sagittal images of the
face (the region of interest).
The volume was automatically scanned every 2 s while the surfacerendered mode was switched on, and 4D images were displayed on
the screen and recorded on videotape during a 30-min observation
period. Movements of the following fetal face structures were
analyzed: forehead, brows, nasal soft tissue and nasolabial folds,
upper lip, oral cavity and tongue, lower lip and chin, eyelids and
eyes, mouth and mouth angles, and facial expression. 4D
ultrasonography allowed in utero observations of fetal facial
expressions such as smiling, yawning, and swallowing.
RESULTS: The quality of 4D depiction of fetal facial expressions
increased with gestational age. The frequency of fetal facial
expressions such as yawning ranged from 1 and 6 with a median of
1.5 per 30-min observation period; smiling ranged from 2 and 8 with
the median of 2; tongue expulsion ranged from 2 to 6, median 3;
mouth and eye squeezing ranged from 5 to 10, median 6; scowling
ranged from 1 to 3, median 0.5; and isolated eye blinking ranged
from 4 to 12 with a median of 5.
CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows the ability of 4D sonography to
depict different facial expressions and movements, which might
represent fetal awareness. Nevertheless, long, precise and
thorough observation of fetal faces by 4D sonography was
hampered as the images were only near real-time. Thus, we were
only able to study the quality and not the quantity of facial
movement patterns.
(2005)Kurjak A, Stanojevic M, Azumendi G By :
Medical School University Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia.
[email protected]
(B)
Four-dimensional sonographic assessment of fetal facial
expression early in the third trimester:
OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the characteristic patterns of facial
expression in fetuses aged from 28 to 34 weeks using 4dimensional (4-D) ultrasonography.
METHODS: The faces of 10 healthy fetuses aged from 28 to 34
weeks were recorded continuously for 15 min with a 4-D
ultrasonographic machine performing up to 25 frames per second.
The occurrence rates of blinking, mouthing, yawning, tongue
expulsion, smiling, scowling, and sucking were evaluated.
RESULTS: Mouthing was the most frequent facial expression
(median, 6.5; range, 2-19) whereas the least frequent were scowling
(median, 1; range, 0-9) and sucking (median, 1; range, 0-2). Mouthing
was evident in all fetuses and significantly more frequent than any
other movement (P<.05). Yawning (median, 3; range, 0-6), smiling
(median, 2; range, 0-9), and blinking (median, 1.5; range, 0-6) were
observed in most cases. Tongue expulsion (median, 1.5; range, 0-5),
scowling, and sucking were each observed in 6 cases.
CONCLUSION: 4-D sonography provides a means of evaluating
fetal facial expression early in the third trimester. It may be a key
to predicting fetal brain function and well-being and an important
modality in future fetal neurophysiologic research.
By :Yan F, Dai SY, Akther N, Kuno A, Yanagihara T, Hata T (2006)
Department of Perinatology and Gynecology, Kagawa University School of
Medicine, Miki, Kagawa, Japan.
3D & 4D Ultrasound Testimonials:
(1) My husband and I enjoyed both visits to Storks view Ultrasound to
see the 3D/4D images of our precious little girl, I felt so much at home.
We are so ecstatic at how much she looks like us, from her cute little
nose, to her chubby cheeks. It's so awesome!
We can't believe the technology of sonograms now, and to have been able
to participate and actually have them done is the greatest experience
ever. To see what our daughter looks like before she is born amazes us.
Thank you for this life changing experience, we will always look back on
this and smile. All of our family and friends are surprised to see what our
baby looks like, and some wish they could have done 3D/4D sonograms
with their children as well. We recommend this to everyone we talk to.
Thank you so much for this experience, and for bringing us that much
closer to our precious baby girl."
David and Alicia Q.
(2) This is clearly something you don't want to miss; it's a once in a life
time experience that you can never get back again. I had the 4-D
ultrasound done twice once at 20 wks & another at 31wks both times
where awesome! & I'm very glad I had both experiences because at 20
wks she was tiny but just right to get her whole body in the picture, you
can clearly she her hands, feet, mouth & so on….Awesome!
Second time was very much awesome because you can see pretty much
exactly what your child will look like when he or she arrives & not just
that but I also saw my child smiling, yawing & my husband & I noticed that
when she was sleeping she slept with her one hand under her head & that
is exactly the way her big sister sleeps also.
Ladies take my advice & don't miss out on this once in a life time
experience!!
Stephaney K.
(3) "Our experience at Storksview Ultrasound was really amazing! We
had no idea that the pictures we would see of our soon-to-be daughter
would be as revealing and eye-opening as they were. During our visit, we
actually got to see our daughter open her eyes, which was totally beyond
belief. Having our ultrasound session on DVD is a lifetime keepsake. All of
our friends and family were shocked at how much you can really see. The
whole experience was awesome! I would definitely recommend Storksview
Ultrasound to anyone who is pregnant and wants a once-in-a lifetime
opportunity at seeing your child in a way I never thought possible."
It was always hard to imagine it was a baby inside of me. I could feel it
kick and move. The only thing I could picture was the "slice" image of the
black and white Ultrasound. I could see its spine and the inside of its
skull and know it was a baby inside of me. When I had my 3D/4D
Ultrasound, my heart skipped a beat. He's not a shadow, he's not a
skeleton. He is my son. He has his sister's nose and chubby cheeks. He's
real. And he's inside of me growing. My son is beautiful. The whole family
loved the pictures and the tape.
Julie R.
1)Do I need to have a diagnostic, 2D ultrasound performed by my prenatal
care provider before coming in for a little sprout imaging session?
Yes, little sprout imaging requires that all clients have a normal diagnostic
medical ultrasound (fetal survey) before coming in for a little sprout scan.
These are typically performed during weeks 18-22 of your pregnancy.
little sprout imaging provides reassuring ultrasound images of your baby.
These are not performed as a diagnostic medical ultrasound of your baby.
Our service should not be considered a substitute for any ultrasounds
that may have been recommended by your doctor.
2)How long is the session?
20 minutes is the usual time for the Ultrasound exam, however we could
exceed this time in case of medical necessity during Diagnostic
Ultrasound tests. Please arrive 10 minutes prior to your appointment time
to fill out the paperwork. Unfortunately, we would have to reschedule
your appointment if you are more than 10 minutes late in order to keep
our schedule running.
3)Is the 3D/4D ultrasound covered by my insurance?
No. 3D/4D Fetal Ultrasound is categorized as an "Elective" service
because it is not medically required. This is the reason why most
insurance do not cover it because it is NOT deemed as a medical
necessity. Most people get these services simply to have an opportunity
to view their unborn baby in its most natural environment, creating a
bonding experience for the families.
4) Does this replace my ultrasound exam with my gynecologist?
Absolutely Not!
5) What if my doctor does not sign the prenatal verification form?
The purpose of getting the prenatal verification form signed is for
your healthcare provider to verify your prenatal care. However, If your
pregnancy is being monitored for a particular medical conditions or if you
have any concerns for the baby depending on the severity of your
condition, we encourage you to engage in a conversation with your
physician. If your physician is concerned for you or the baby's well being
then entertainment should always take a second place to you or your
baby's safety.
Some doctor's may not sign the prenatal verification form simply because
they don't believe in doing Ultrasound for Non-Diagnostic reasons. If this
is the case, please ask your physician if they see any concerns for you or
the child. Again, please use your best judgment. We reserve the right to
deny our services to anybody who may try to misrepresent their
physician's views or fail to provide proper proof of prenatal care. Please
get your physician's input if you are a high risk pregnancy or being
monitored for a certain medical condition.
6)What is a report of limited Medical Ultrasound?
The report of limited Medical Ultrasound, performed during our 3D/4D
session, include very limited diagnosis to confirm heartbeat, the number
of babies in the pregnancy, the position of the baby, and the placenta
location. Please note, at no time is this exam to be used in place of a
complete diagnostic ultrasound ordered by your physician. Any questions
or concerns relating to the well being of the baby needs to be directed to
your obstetrician.
7) Are there any special preparations for a 3D/4D ultrasound?
Please have a meal 90 minutes prior to your exam. Have a bottle of your
favorite juice drink and wear comfortable clothing. Full bladder is not
required for this ultrasound. Please be sure to bring your proof of
prenatal care.
8)Is it better to come in later in the pregnancy to get a 3D/4D
Ultrasound?
No. The best time to come in for a 3D/4D ultrasound is between your
sixth and seventh month (5-6 months for multiple pregnancies!). Once the
mother is well into her third trimester, the amniotic fluids get lesser
because the size of the baby gets larger. The maternal fluids, also known
as the Amniotic fluids, are the most helpful aspect of this Ultrasound,
since the ultrasound waves pass through the fluids to create a picture.
More fluids will allow for clearer picture and better fetal movements.
Lesser fluids are a sign that the size of the baby has become too large
which making it difficult to view the baby with clarity.
Another important factor that affects the picture quality is the
orientation, or positioning, of the baby. Later in the pregnancy, the head
of the baby descends deeper into the pelvic area to prepare for the
birthing process. The fluids around the face will get lesser, making it
difficult to capture better images of the baby's face.
9)When is the best time to have these services done?
Whether you wish to come in for gender determination, a full 3D/4D scan
or expecting twins, following are the recommended times for these
services:
For Gender Determination: 18-34 weeks
For Single Pregnancy: 26-32 weeks.
For Multiple pregnancies (twins or more): 20-26 weeks.
Usually by these times, a mother still has retained enough amniotic fluid
to be able to observe fetal movements.
10)Is 3D/4D ultrasound available to anyone?
3D/4D appointments are recommended after the mother has completed
her second trimester diagnostic ultrasound.
11)Will I always get a clear view of my baby?
Mostly but not always! Sometimes if the baby is persistently looking face
down, i.e. towards your spine it may be difficult to see the baby's face.
Every baby scans differently, depending on its gestational age, position,
amount of fluid, and mother's condition. We make no promises that the
images will be similar to those you might have seen elsewhere or even
from our clinic, or that we can always meet everyone's expectations.
12)In case we do not get a clear view of the baby, is it possible to have a
repeat scan?
Please note that no one can ever guarantee a perfect shot of the baby's
face. You pay for a chance to see your baby, not a guarantee! The idea is
to get a glimpse into your child's most natural environment to watch them
do whatever they would: yawn, smile, kick, punch, play or just sleeping
comfortably facing the mother's back!
‫"نبذة مختصرة عن جهاز الموجات الفوق صوتيه رباعي االبعاد"‬
‫ما هي األبعاد الثالثية ؟ وما هو البعد الرابع ؟‬
‫عندما نتحدث عن ابععناا الثيةينة نننح نن علن نعنن الطنو‪ ,‬والعنض‪ ,‬والعمن وو االرتفنا‪,‬‬
‫وعذل يتشكل المجسم وما البعد الضاعع نهو البعد الزمنن والنذي يعطن المجسنم عي ابععناا الثيةنة‬
‫الحينناة‪ .‬نجهننا الموجنناف نننوق الةننوتية الثيةن ابععنناا يحتننا لجهنند الطبيننف المعننال نن تنندويض‬
‫الةورة الملتقطة بخذ البعد الثالث وهذا يستغضق ععض الوقت وما جها الموجاف ننوق الةنوتية‬
‫رعاع ابععاا نيقوم الجها عنفسه عإعطاء البعند الثالنث عالوقنت المحندا لنذل سنم ز عجهنا ةيةن‬
‫ابععاا الح ‪.‬‬
‫جهاز األبعاد الرباعية يكتسب ميزات عظيمة منها‪:‬‬
‫‪ -1‬تمكن الطبيننف المعننال من الحةننو‪ ,‬علن صننورة مجسننمة ينناملة ابمننض الننذي يؤهلننه للتشن ي‬
‫الدقي ‪ ،‬مع إمكانينة متاععنة الحضتناف الحينة ااخنل الجسنم البشنضي ع ععااهنا الثيةينة وهنذا لعنف اورا‬
‫رئيسننننننننننيا ننننننننننن و ننننننننننضا‪ ,‬وخننننننننننذ ال زعنننننننننناف وو إاخننننننننننا‪ ,‬القسننننننننننطضاف ننننننننننن الجسننننننننننم‪.‬‬
‫‪ -2‬إمكانية ت نزي الةنور عن قضين الكمبينوتض واراسنة مقاقعهنا ال قنا اختةنض من الوقنت النذي‬
‫يستغضقه الفح الثان ووسع مجا‪ ,‬الضوي إعا ما ر ف الطبيف المعال من استشنارة وخةنائ آخنض‬
‫وو ر ننننننننننننننف هننننننننننننننو نفسننننننننننننننه عدراسننننننننننننننة المقنننننننننننننناقع عةننننننننننننننورة وتثننننننننننننننض تفةننننننننننننننيي ‪.‬‬
‫‪ -3‬التش ي الدقي الذي تحققنه هنذا ابجهنزة ي تةنض قضين العني ومنا يتكبندا من غنغن نفسن‬
‫وجهنننننننننننند وتلفننننننننننننة ماايننننننننننننة عاختةننننننننننننارا الت بطنننننننننننناف التش يةننننننننننننية واالنتضاغنننننننننننناف‪.‬‬
‫‪ -4‬القياسنننننناف الدقيقننننننة ب جننننننام ابعانننننناء الداخليننننننة وان تانننننننت عاف ويننننننكا‪ ,‬يننننننض منتظمننننننة‪.‬‬
‫تل هذا الميزاف والت خضف عها وواخض التسعيناف ه الت وجبضف العنالم علن اننع عجلنة التطنور‬
‫وإ داث ةوراف علمية عل وجهزة الموجاف نوق الةنوتية ةنائينة ابععناا والتن عنض م منا تحققنه من‬
‫نتائ جيدة ن التش ي إال ونها تانت عحاجة لهذا النو‪ ,‬م التطنويض ععطناء وعظنم النتنائ وتشن‬
‫الستار ع واق التفاصيل‪.‬‬
‫عند نح‬
‫‪-1‬‬
‫‪-2‬‬
‫‪-3‬‬
‫‪-4‬‬
‫الجني عابععاا الضعاعية ‪ 4D‬نان عل يمكننا م ‪:‬‬
‫رؤية الجني عابععاا الثيةية وهو يحضك يفتيه ويديه وقدميه ويفنت نمنه ويمن إصنبعه‬
‫ومبايض)‪.‬‬
‫( تةويض‬
‫الحةو‪ ,‬عل صورا مجسمه وملونه لوجه الجني " ميم واقعيه "‪.‬‬
‫إجضاء الفح ن وي وقت خي‪ ,‬الحمل وابنانل منا عني الشنهض السنااس والسناعع من‬
‫الحمل نهو ليس ع يعة وإنما موجاف نوق صوتيه اعتيااية وال يسف ولما وو غضرا لألم‬
‫وو الجني ‪.‬‬
‫تسجيل تامل الفح عل يضين نيديو ( يضين تبيض ) وو ‪( CD‬قضص ليزر)‪.‬‬
‫ولك يبق ن عي االعتبار ون نح الجني عالموجاف نوق الةوتية رعاعية ابععاا ال يعتبض‬
‫نحةا مستقي عذاته إع انه ال يمك االستغناء ع الفح ابو‪ ,‬عالموجاف نوق الةوتية ةنائ‬
‫ابععاا نهذا الفح الضعاع ابععاا يعتبض نحةا مكمي ‪.‬‬