Prenatal diagnosis of an isolated incomplete V-shaped cleft palate using a new three-dimensional ultrasound technique investigation

Abstract

Objective: The objective of this case report is to evaluate the faculty of a recently described original three-dimensional ultrasound technique to detect pathological processes of the fetal palate.

Method: The palate of the fetus of a patient with a personal history of isolated incomplete cleft palate is evaluated by three-dimensional ultrasound at 34 weeks of gestation. The postnatal findings are compared to the prenatal investigation.

Result: The used three-dimensional ultrasound technique provides selective visualization of the total hard palate which permits the prenatal diagnosis and multidisciplinary approach of an incomplete cleft palate.

Conclusion: These prenatal findings might encourage further studies to confirm the value of this recently described innovative technique in the diagnosis and surgical prenatal counselling of fetal cleft palate.