Foetal ultrasound. Three-dimensional (3-D) ultrasound scan of a first trimester foetus. The foetus' head (upper right), torso (centre) and limbs are clearly seen. The image was produced by a third generation 3-D ultrasound scanner called Voluson 730. 3-D scanning enables physiological disorders such as harelip and spina bifida to be diagnosed before birth. Once detected, it may be possible to perform corrective surgery while the foetus is still in the uterus. Ultrasound is a diagnostic technique which sends high-frequency sound waves into the body via a transducer. The returning echoes are recorded and used to build an image of an internal structure. (KEYSTONE/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/GE MEDICAL SYSTEMS)
Our website uses cookies. By using and navigating through the website and its offers, you accept these cookies. Detailed information about the use of cookies and how to delete them can be found in our data privacy statement.
