Telemundo Preview: 4-Dimension Ultrasound Helps Detect Birth Defects and Genetic Syndromes

For pregnant women over 35 and others at high risk for birth defects or disorders such as Down Syndrome, a genetic ultrasound using the latest 4-D sonogram technlogy can provide valuable information about the health of the unborn baby.

This week, First 5 LA and Telemundo Los Angeles will explore this important medical tool, which creates a detailed image of the fetus about halfway through the 40-week pregnancy.

KVEA-Channel 52 anchorwoman Lucia Navarro's own examination by Dr. Gregory DeVore, a Pasadena fetal ultrasound specialist, will shed light on how high-resolution ultrasound scans can provide critical information about the fetus, including pictures of organs, face, and bone structure.

The segment, part of Telemundo's weekly "Primeros Pasos" series on pregnancy and infant development, is scheduled to air this Wednesday, between 6 and 6:30 p.m.

"Typical indications for this type of ultrasound include a family history of a genetic disorder, a previous abnormal child, advanced maternal age, maternal illness, maternal medication or chemical exposure, and abnormal clinical or laboratory findings during the course of the pregnancy," said Dr. DeVore, who heads the Fetal Diagnostic Center.

"Using high-frequency sound, we can build an image of the fetus, and detect chromosomal and structural abnormalities without using an invasive procedure," he added. "This can help put the parents' minds at ease or provide indications for further tests."

Dr. Devore cautions against "recreational ultrasounds," which are provided in storefronts without the oversight of a medical doctor. He noted that non-medical use of ultrasound equipment is illegal and is opposed by the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine.

For information about genetic ultrasounds and other pregnancy-related tests, visit www.fetal.com or www.aium.org.