Routine screening for fetal anomalies: expectations

The use of ultrasound in obstetrics has become ubiquitous. Although not recommended by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology as a routine procedure, it is the rare fetus that escapes having at least one ultrasound. One of the most common indications for performing an ultrasound is to screen for fetal anomalies. Because of this, it is important to know what the expectations should be for both the patient who undergoes this examination and the performing sonographer. This article summarizes the literature that examines the sensitivity and specificity of ultrasound to detect fetal anomalies. In addition, it gives an overview of the routine screening ultrasound examination with emphasis on when a patient should be referred for a targeted ultrasound examination.