NT స్కాన్ (నూకల్ ట్రాన్స్‌లూసెన్సీ)

What happens if the NT measurement is increased?

An increased NT does not mean your baby definitely has a chromosomal condition — it raises the probability. Your doctor will discuss the combined risk result with you and offer further testing options: NIPT (a highly accurate blood test from 10 weeks) or invasive testing (CVS or amniocentesis) which give definitive chromosomal answers. Increased NT can also indicate heart defects, even with normal chromosomes, so a fetal echocardiogram may be recommended.

Can the NT scan be repeated if the window is missed?

No. Once the baby is beyond 13 weeks 6 days (CRL > 84mm), the NT scan cannot be performed — the nuchal fluid is absorbed by the baby's lymphatic system. If you miss the window, second trimester screening (Triple or Quad Marker blood test, or NIPT) is the next option.

What is the difference between the NT scan and the TIFFA scan?

The NT scan is a first trimester screen (11–14 weeks) focused on chromosomal risk assessment using the nuchal translucency measurement. The TIFFA (anomaly) scan is a detailed second trimester scan (18–22 weeks) that checks all the baby's organs and structures for physical abnormalities. Both are important, but they serve different purposes.

Is the Double Marker blood test included with the NT scan?

The Double Marker (PAPP-A + free beta-hCG) is a separate blood test drawn on the same day or within a few days of the NT scan. Both results are entered into a risk calculation software along with your age, weight, and scan measurements to generate your combined risk score. Ask your doctor or the scanning centre whether it is included in the package.

Does a 'low risk' result mean my baby is 100% healthy?

A 'low risk' result means the statistical probability of a chromosomal condition is very low, but it is not a 100% guarantee. No screening test can rule out all conditions, but the NT scan combined with blood work is the most reliable first-trimester screening tool available.