Evaluation of Foetal Neural Axis in Antenatal Scan and Its Correlation With Foetal Outcome

Central nervous system malformations are among the most frequent anomalies detected at antenatal sonography, with studies suggesting a prevalence as high as 1 in 1000. Ultrasound has become an increasingly valuable tool in identifying even the most subtle anomalies to a great extent. Most central nervous system malformations are discovered in the second trimester around 20 weeks of gestation, when the morphology is better recognized and targeted anomaly scans are performed as a routine practice. Even in early pregnancy, with effort and good equipment, it is now possible to move vital structures such as the spine, skull, interhemispheric ssure, choroid plexus, thalamus, and posterior cranial fossa. Sequential antenatal ultrasound starting early in rst trimester has played a pivotal role in diagnosing these anomalies early.