Fetal Screening
- Nuchal Translucency
- A Nuchal Translucency test is typically done between 11 and 14 weeks to screen for a risk of Downs Syndrome and other chromosome problems. This is done by ultrasound and looks for the skin thickness at the back of the neck of the fetus. Although highly associated with Down Syndrome, there is a false-positive incidence of 5%.
- First Trimester Screen
- This involves doing both blood work on the mother and the nuchal translucency test. Looking at the result of both of these tests together, a risk for Down Syndrome and other chromosome problems can be given. This is similar to the second trimester quadruple screen blood test. Down Syndrome can be detected with a 80-91 % accuracy rate.
- Insurance Information for First Trimester Screening Tests
- Chorionic Villous Sampling (CVS)
- CVS is a definitive test that is an alternative to amniocentesis. It is usually done between 10-14 weeks gestation, allowing more time for parents and physicians to plan for treatment if an abnormality is found. Testing involves taking a small sample of the placenta. This is done by placing a small needle through the mother’s abdomen or a flexible catheter through the cervix and, guided by ultrasound, the physician collects a small sample of cells. Results are usually available in 2 weeks.
- Information regarding insurance coverage and CVS
- Amniocentesis
- An amniocentesis is usually done between 14-18 weeks gestation. It is used to detect chromosomal abnormalities, structural defects and metabolic disorders. Testing involves placing a small needle into the uterus via the mother’s abdomen and obtaining a small amount of amniotic fluid. There is generally only minimal discomfort with this procedure. Results are typically available within 2 weeks.
- Information regarding insurance coverage and amniocentesis
- Percutaneous Umblical Blood Sampling (PUBS)
- PUBS is a test that involves drawing blood from the baby’s umbilical cord if fetal anemia is suspected. Like an amniocentesis, a small needle is placed through the mother’s abdomen, into the uterus. Instead of amniotic fluid, blood is obtained. This test is usually performed at 18 weeks or after. Results are typically available within an hour.