HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologyanomaly scanI was asked to go for a repeat scan after a normal anatomy scan. Why?

What could be the reason to repeat the anatomy scan?

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Answered by

Dr. Neha Rathod

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At January 26, 2024
Reviewed AtJanuary 26, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I went in for my anatomy scan at 18 weeks. The scan lasted about 30 minutes. All seemed to look great and the ultrasound tech seemed to be very positive. She commented some on the baby moving but never commented on it hard getting photos due to the movement. She took about 85 images total for the Radiologist to review.

We were able to see every part of the baby and even were amazed when it came to her heart that you could see all four chambers. We left very positive and excited. Two hours later I received a call from my doctor's office stating the results came back and looked fine however there was suboptimal evaluation of fetal heart, spine, and kidneys. My doctor told me I would need to go back in for an ultrasound in two weeks. I am worried to death that there is something wrong. My doctor made it sound like no big deal but I have been an emotional mess since hearing the news. My questions are as follows...

1. Is this normal and happens frequently, especially with a scan at 18 weeks?

2. What does suboptimal evaluation mean? If the picture was blurry or not of good quality would they not say suboptimal visualization?

3. We have heard the baby's heart many times and her heartbeat is consistently around 142 beats per minute. We even have a fetal monitor and have always heard a strong beat, no murmurs or concerns. What are the signs if something were wrong with her heart?

4. If the problem came down to poor imagery, why did not my doctor just say that? Could they be keeping a larger problem from me?

5. If the radiologist saw something of concern would they say, a problem with the heart needs to come back in for re-evaluation or suggest seeing a specialist?

Any of your suggestions and reassurance would be much appreciated. Thank you so much.

Answered by Dr. Neha Rathod

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have gone through your query and images (attachment removed to protect the patient's identity) and understand your concern. Everything seems to be normal and there is nothing to worry about. Suboptimal evaluation means that they could not measure things accurately because of the baby's position or sleep or some technical issues. So relax and do not worry. Revaluation will also come as normal. They will never hide anything from you, so relax there is definitely nothing major. Do get back to me with reports so that I can guide you further. I hope you find this helpful.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Neha Rathod
Dr. Neha Rathod

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy