Overview

We understand that getting scans during your initial stage of pregnancy might leave you confused, especially when some of them require specific types of examinations. One such vital scan is known as the ‘USG NT NB scan.’ Although these acronyms seem complicated at first glance, we’re here to break down all the details behind it. Whether you want to know the significance, procedure, or cost of the USG NT NB scan

A USG NT NB scan involves two key assessments: one of the nuchal translucency (NT) and another of the nasal bone (NB). These are evaluated during a particular ultrasound scan conducted in the first trimester of your pregnancy. The primary goal of undergoing an ultrasound scan involving both NT & NB assessment is to acquire critical information regarding the growth and development of your child, as well as to determine if there exists an elevated probability of acquiring particular chromosomal disorders. Price Of USG NT NB Scan Ranges Between INR 1500 to 4000 In Various Hospitals Across India.

What is a USG NT NB Scan?

USG stands for Ultrasonography. It’s a safe imaging technique that utilises high-frequency sound waves to capture pictures of your developing baby in the uterus.

A USG NT NB scan is a special kind of first-trimester Ultrasound during which 2 very critical things called as “NT” (nuchal translucency) i.e., the thickness of fluid filled space behind the neck of the growing fetus, and NB(Nasal Bone) The presence and appearance of the baby’s Nasal bone.

What is Nuchal Translucency (NT)?

In early pregnancy, a small amount of fluid may build up under your baby’s skin on the back of their neck. This fluid-filled area can be measured as part of an ultrasound scan. It is called the nuchal translucency (NT).

Your baby’s NT measurement will change naturally over time as they grow. Your healthcare professional must interpret this based on your baby’s gestational age and other factors.

An increase in the NT measurement can sometimes indicate a higher likelihood of certain chromosomal abnormalities or other fetal conditions but doesn’t necessarily mean there is anything wrong with your baby.

In addition to some measurements from healthy pregnancies requiring an extra evaluation, doctors take into consideration the NT together with your maternal age, gestational age and more screenings too.

What is the Nasal Bone (NB)?

The nasal bone is also assessed on first trimester ultrasounds. It involves looking at the baby’s facial profile to see if their nasal bones are visible and well developed for the current stage of their pregnancy.

When taken alongside other measurements like your nuchal translucency (NT) this gives us even more information about our babies’ development, though the absence or poor visualization of the nasal bone has been associated with an increased risk in certain chromosomal abnormalities.

Quality might be influenced by different variables, for instance, the baby’s positioning, its gestational age and the image quality.

Why is a USG NT NB Scan performed?

The main purpose of the scan is to help assess the risk of certain chromosomal abnormalities during early pregnancy.

The examination may provide useful information regarding conditions such as:

• Down syndrome (Trisomy 21)
• Edwards syndrome (Trisomy 18)
• Patau syndrome (Trisomy 13)

When is the NT/NB Scan done?

NT Scan is usually done during the first trimester as this is when the fetus reaches an appropriate size that allows accurate NT measurements.

Many screening protocols suggest performing this scan between 11-13 weeks & 6days into a pregnancy, but they do consider the fetal crown-rump length while determining if the measurements are appropriate or not. Your doctor/sonologist will guide you regarding the best time for you.

It's essential to understand that the NT isn't interpreted in quite the same manner throughout all stages of your pregnancy, so the scan has to take place before it’s too early or after it’s too late for your desired measurement. If the scan occurs too soon or too late for that particular measurement, there won’t be anything accurate enough to help determine NT.

How is the USG NT NB Scan performed?

It’s very similar to other ultrasounds done during a pregnancy. A sonologist will ask you to lie comfortably on your back before applying some gel onto your abdomen. They’ll then gently move around a handheld device (called a transducer) over your abdomen to get images of your uterus and developing baby. They’ll also spend time looking at where your baby is positioned, as they need to get certain views to assess your baby’s NT and nasal bones.

If there are issues with the baby’s placement during this measurement process, you may have to adjust your position, take a short walk, or simply wait until your little one moves around. You might also get a transvaginal ultrasound done when they can’t get a proper image of the baby abdominally, but that will depend on the nature of your pregnancy as well as how things look according to your healthcare professional.

Does the Scan hurt?

A routine abdominal NT/NB ultrasound is painless. You might feel some mild pressure as the transducer moves across your abdomen. This can happen especially if the sonologist needs a specific image. It's usually only for a short time.

Your healthcare professional should explain the process before you have a transvaginal exam. Tell the sonologist if you become uncomfortable during this test.

How should you prepare for the NT NB Scan?

It is best to follow the specific instructions provided by City Imaging or your referring doctor. You should also carry:

• Previous ultrasound reports
• Pregnancy-related medical records
• Any blood test or screening reports
• Details of your last menstrual period, if available
• Your doctor's prescription or referral, if applicable

What does the report of USG Lower ABD NT & Nasal Bone tell you?

The report may include several details about the pregnancy, including:

• Gestational age
• Crown-rump length
• NT measurement
• Nasal bone assessment
• Fetal heart activity
• Basic assessment of early fetal anatomy
• Placental location, where appropriate
• Other observations made during the examination

Does an abnormal NT mean the baby has a problem?

The short answer is no, at least not necessarily. This is one of the most important things for parents to know when it comes to NT screening. If your NT reading was above what’s expected, this means there is an increased chance your baby could have a chromosomal or structural issue. It doesn’t mean they definitely do. It just gives you an idea of how much more testing your doctor would want you to pursue.

A reassuring NT/NB assessment does not mean that there are no issues affecting the health of our little one. Depending upon the findings along with the pregnancy history, the doctor might recommend further screening/diagnostic tests including blood based prenatal screening, non invasive prenatal test(NIPT) & diagnostic procedure as required.

In case you have any questions regarding this please do talk to your obstetrician about the full reports. Please don’t try to figure out anything by yourself.

What happens after the USG Lower ABD NT & Nasal Bone Scan?

You can carry on with your usual activities if your doctor doesn’t advise otherwise. Your sonologist prepares a report detailing their findings from the ultrasound scan which your obstetrician explains to you in light of your current stage of pregnancy. If the findings are reassuring, you’ll continue as before with your antenatal care. In some cases you might need further tests but don't panic if this happens.

A finding from your scan requiring more investigation doesn’t necessarily indicate anything serious. For example, your GP might want to carry out another scan or do extra scans as part of routine screening for better understanding.

Which USG NT NB Scan centre is near me?

Delhi-based City Imaging has state-of-the-art medical equipment that enables precise testing. Here, well-trained employees compassionately and carefully respond to your enquiries. All of the tests that City Imaging offers are reasonably priced, and low-income people can take advantage of special price breaks.

Why choose a Specialised Imaging Centre?

The process of ultrasound imaging of pregnancy is a complex one and is very critical to perform correctly. The position of the fetus as well as his or her age and the quality of the image can affect the results of ultrasound.

City Imaging pays special attention to the convenience of the patients in the process of imaging and getting ultrasound images, so it is important to communicate clearly with the patients as many parents get anxious about having pregnancy related exams done.

Preparation such as taking the past medical reports and following the instructions regarding preparation is encouraged.

How to book USG NT NB SCAN Test online at City Imaging?

City Imaging’s website or call can be used by a patient to set an appointment for USG NT NB SCAN Test. Home sample collection is also done by a technician visit after booking collection using their website. The reports will be provided to you via email so you don’t have to go anywhere or visit the lab personally.

What is the price of USG NT NB SCAN Test in Delhi?

The USG NT NB SCAN Test can be performed in Delhi at a price ranging from INR 1500 to INR 4000. The price may vary slightly depending on the machine used, location and type of test.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the NT/NB scan identify Down syndrome?

This scan makes it possible to provide a risk assessment of Down syndrome disease as well as other genetic anomalies, although it cannot diagnose Down syndrome itself. The information obtained through the NT and nasal bone examination is usually considered in conjunction with the information from other screening tests.

What if the baby's nasal bone cannot be seen?

There are cases when the baby's nasal bone cannot be detected, probably due to the position of the baby, the gestational week, or other issues. In this case, your healthcare provider may recommend repeating the study or conducting additional testing.

What is the other name of USG NT NB Scan?

It is also called as USG Lower ABD NT & Nasal Bone, NT NB Scan.

Is it possible to tell the baby’s gender with the scan?

The main purpose of NT/NB scan is to check the development of the pregnancy and screening indicators. This means that the NT/NB scan cannot be used to identify the sex of the fetus. In India, disclosing fetal sex is illegal according to the PCPNDT Act.

What is the average duration of the NT/NB scan?

The duration of the procedure depends. The scan is conducted quickly if the baby lies in the appropriate position; otherwise, the procedure will take longer if the sonologist has to wait for the appropriate position of the baby.

Should I feel anxious if my NT value is higher than expected?

Don’t get worried just on the basis of the NT number. The NT result has to be interpreted together with the gestational age and taking into consideration other indicators. Contact your obstetrician to find out what it means for you.