Anomaly Scan (TIFFA Scan)

Why is an anomaly scan one of the most important pregnancy scans?

1. An Anomaly scan is a detailed scan usually carried out between 19 and 20 weeks or the 5th month of gestation, where most of the body structures of the baby are well developed, and any abnormalities can be easily seen on an ultrasound scan.
2. Anomaly scan picks up defects in the brain, face, heart, spinal cord, kidney, intestine, hands, and legs. However, in most cases, the anomaly scan turns out normal.

3. If the scan shows any abnormality in the baby, you may be offered further genetic tests like amniocentesis to rule out chromosomal abnormalities.
4. Depending on the severity of the defects, one can choose to continue or terminate the pregnancy. Please note termination is allowed up to 24 weeks of gestation in India and a few other countries.
5. You need to Keep in mind there are minor structural defects that the scan may fail to pick up, like tiny holes in the baby’s heart, Cleft palate, finger and toe anomalies, and late-onset anomalies of the brain, intestine, and kidney. Still, most of these minor defects can be corrected after birth.

It is very important to choose an expert doctor and a well-equipped centre for an anomaly scan as it is very crucial.