Abstracto

The use of 4D imaging in the behavioral assessment of high-risk fetuses

Asim Kurjak, Maja Predojevic, Milan Stanojevic, Amira Talic, Ulrich Honemeyer and Aida Salihagic Kadic

Fetal behavioral patterns have been considered as indicators of fetal brain development. Numerous studies employing conventional 2D ultrasound have shown that normally developing fetuses and fetuses at risk exhibit different patterns of behavior. With the appearance and development of 4D ultrasound, fetal behavioral movements, and the full range of facial expressions can be observed. After standardization of valid reference ranges of movements appropriate for the gestational age, the Zagreb group published a new scoring system for fetal neurobehavior based on prenatal assessment by 4D sonography, the Kurjak Antenatal Neurological Test. The aims and objectives of this article were to describe the latest 4D sonographic studies on fetal behavior and to present results of behavioral assessment by KANET in high-risk pregnancies.