Early detection of fetal congenital anomalies in first trimester: A dual-phase observational study in a tertiary care center
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: The first trimester (11–13+6 weeks) has evolved from a period primarily for dating and aneuploidy screening to a critical window for early structural anomaly detection. This shift facilitates timely genetic counseling and medical interventions.Objective: To evaluate the efficacy of first-trimester ultrasonography in detecting fetal congenital structural malformations and to analyze associated pregnancy outcomes in a tertiary care setting in South India.Materials and Methods: A dual-phase observational study (retrospective and prospective) was conducted over 18 months involving 200 antenatal women with singleton pregnancies. Participants underwent standardized high-resolution ultrasound screening assessing biometry, nuchal translucency (NT), and detailed fetal anatomy. Risk factors, sonographic findings, and pregnancy outcomes were analyzed using Chi-square and Fisher’s exact tests.Results: The overall prevalence of congenital anomalies was 15.5% (n=31), reflecting a high-risk referral population. Cardiovascular anomalies were the most frequent (35.5%), followed by neural tube defects (25.8%). A significant correlation was found between increased NT (>3.5 mm) and structural defects (OR 105.5, p
Language: English
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W7203673573