What is a level II obstetric ultrasound examination, and what elements of fetal anatomy are included?
A level II obstetric ultrasound examination is a comprehensive real-time ultrasonography (US) evaluation of fetal anatomy to detect fetal anomalies, whereas a level I obstetric ultrasound is a more general evaluation to detect obstetric problems.
For the elements of fetal anatomy that are included in a level II obstetric ultrasound examination, see the below table
Elements of Fetal Anatomy in a Level II Obstetric Ultrasound Examination (Fetal Anatomic Survey)
| Head, Face, and Neck Cerebral lateral ventriclesChoroid plexusMidline falxCavum septi pellucidiCerebellumCisterna magnaUpper lipNuchal fold ( ≤ 20 weeks) (not included in the basic elements, but advised if the fetus is ≤ 20 weeks) | Chest HeartFour-chamber viewLeft ventricular outflow tractRight ventricular outflow tract |
| Abdomen Stomach (presence, size, situs)KidneysUrinary bladderUmbilical cord insertionUmbilical cord number of vessels | Spine Cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral (in sagittal and transverse planes) |
| Extremities Arms and legs | Gender In multiple gestations and when medically indicated |
