4D Ultrasound – Detecting Congenital Abnormalities. How Modern Prenatal Diagnostics Can Change Lives

The development of advanced ultrasound technologies has transformed prenatal care, offering future parents not only a first glimpse of their baby, but—more importantly—the ability to detect congenital abnormalities early in pregnancy.

At Mediss Medical in Gdańsk, we perform 4D ultrasounds using one of the most advanced diagnostic tools available today – the GE Voluson E10 BT21. This state-of-the-art equipment ensures exceptional image quality, high diagnostic precision, and patient safety.

What Is a 4D Ultrasound?

A 4D ultrasound combines three-dimensional imaging (3D) with the fourth dimension—time, allowing real-time observation of the fetus.

This enables us to not only visualize the baby’s facial features or limbs but also observe movements, facial expressions, and reactions to stimuli in real time.

GE Voluson E10 BT21 – Diagnostic Precision at Its Finest

The GE Voluson E10 BT21 is among the world’s most sophisticated ultrasound systems. Thanks to its Radiance System Architecture, it delivers outstanding image resolution and detail, even in challenging conditions—such as early pregnancy or patients with higher BMI.

Key advantages of this system include:

• Real-time, high-resolution imaging

• Advanced software for fetal anatomical assessment

• High-precision fetal echocardiography capabilities

• Enhanced 3D/4D rendering of fetal structures

• Efficient and accurate volume analysis and measurements

Which Congenital Abnormalities Can Be Detected with 4D Ultrasound?

Modern 4D ultrasound, especially when performed with top-tier systems like the GE Voluson E10, can detect a wide range of structural abnormalities, including:

✅ Central nervous system defects – such as spina bifida, anencephaly, hydrocephalus, microcephaly
✅ Heart and great vessel defects – including septal defects, hypoplastic left heart syndrome, Tetralogy of Fallot
✅ Urinary tract abnormalities – such as kidney agenesis, hydronephrosis, cystic kidneys
✅ Markers of genetic syndromes – e.g., thickened nuchal fold or absent nasal bone in Down syndrome
✅ Limb deformities – including missing fingers/toes, shortened long bones, arthrogryposis
✅ Facial abnormalities – like cleft lip/palate, facial asymmetry
✅ Gastrointestinal malformations – such as omphalocele, bowel obstruction, gastroschisis

Why Early Diagnosis Is Crucial

Early detection of fetal abnormalities enables:

• Planning care in a high-level perinatal center

• In-utero treatment in selected cases (e.g., fetal blood transfusions)

• Timely and safe delivery in a specialized setting

• Immediate postnatal interventions and surgery if needed

• Psychological and emotional preparation for parents

• Access to multidisciplinary medical and psychological support

Some conditions—such as cardiac rhythm disturbances—can even be treated during pregnancy, improving postnatal outcomes significantly.

When to Schedule a 4D Ultrasound

The ideal time for a detailed 4D ultrasound is between 26 and 32 weeks of pregnancy. At this stage, the fetus has well-developed facial features and enough amniotic fluid, which ensures optimal imaging conditions.

Earlier scans—such as the first-trimester genetic ultrasound (11–14 weeks)—also provide vital insights and allow for early risk assessment of chromosomal and structural abnormalities.

4D Ultrasound at Mediss Medical Gdańsk

At Mediss Medical, 4D ultrasounds are performed by experienced physicians specialized in prenatal diagnostics. Our priority is not only early detection of possible health issues but also providing parents with trustworthy information, medical guidance, and peace of mind.

We use the cutting-edge GE Voluson E10 BT21 system to deliver the highest standard of prenatal care and ensure a safe and informed pregnancy journey.

📍 Book Your 4D Ultrasound at Mediss Medical Today

Give your baby the best start by choosing the most advanced diagnostic tools and expert care. Witness the beauty of life in the womb while ensuring a thorough assessment of your child’s health.

📞 Call us or book online – our team is here to guide and support you every step of the way.