What is 3D and 4D scan?

Article by: Dr. Mohamed Abdel-Aal

3D/4D scanning is an ultrasound technique most commonly used to determine the characteristics of an unborn baby in the womb. The term “baby” is usually used by mothers. However, the correct medical term for the unborn baby is fetus (in general) or foetus (in British English). 3D and 4D scans are actually extensions of a simple 2D scan. A simple 2D ultrasound scan is used to take a 2 dimensional image of the foetus. There can be many uses of 2D scans but the most common usage is related to pregnancy tests and scans. A 3D scan is a reconstruction of 2D scans performed at different angles. A complex computing mechanism then reconstructs a three dimensional image from these 2D images.

A 2D ultrasound scan is the most common type of scan used in the UK by private and public obstetricians to determine the gender, health, size and growth of the baby. A simple 3D scan covers static images of the foetus while a 4D scan takes rapid 3D screenshots of the foetus and run them in a sequence to depict the movement of the foetus. An important point in this regard is that these scans have an adverse effect on the baby.

3D and 4D scanning machines are usually set to shut off mechanically or give a warning beep if the machine exceeds the approved wave intensity limit. If the mother feels discomfort, the obstetrician usually terminates the scan. However, higher intensity of these ultrasound waves is usually used to detect the heartbeat of the fetus.

3D and 4D scans are not only used to visualise the details of the face, limbs, and external surface but they are also used to visualise the skeleton, spine, brain and heart. They can be extremely useful in visualising congenital defect and explaining them better to the parents as they can see the true picture of the defect.

Be sure to consult a qualified private or public obstetrician before having a scan. The image is produced by receiving sent waves on a receptor which gives an image of the baby inside the uterus. It is better if you get your tests and scans conducted by a qualified obstetrician or sonographer in Obstetric scanning because being on the safe side can save you from many complications in the long run.

Feel free to contact us to book an appointment with a qualified private gynaecology consultant in London.