The Value of Prenatal Ultrasonographic Diagnosis of Diastematomyelia.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the value of prenatal ultrasonographic diagnosis of diastematomyelia, and to provide a basis for the diagnosis and differential diagnosis of fetal diastematomyelia.

METHODS: Four fetuses with suspected diastematomyelia based on prenatal ultrasonography are presented. Detailed prenatal ultrasonography was performed to examine spinal cord abnormalities. The region of interest-based spine sagittal plane was defined and 3D volumetric scans were performed, as needed. Images were stored and compared with MRI or ultrasonographic images after abortion.

RESULTS: In the four cases of diastematomyelia diagnosed by prenatal ultrasonography, two were confirmed by MRI after birth, and the other two were confirmed by autopsy and pathologic examination after abortion. Varying degrees of spine or spinal cord deformities were noted. Two pregnancies were terminated, and two newborns underwent surgery.

CONCLUSIONS: Prenatal ultrasonography contributes to the diagnosis of diastematomyelia and provides a basis for prenatal counseling and prognosis.