Three-Dimensional Ultrasound of Fetal Orofacial Anomalies

A broad spectrum of orofacial anomalies can be detected by ultrasound. Awareness of their features can assist in diagnosis. Orofacial anomalies may be associated with other malformations, so additional studies may be needed to provide appropriate counseling information. Routine scanning of the fetal face in different planes by two-dimensional ultrasound during the second trimester provides most of the information needed. In addition, recent three-dimensional techniques allow for imaging of the fetal face with particular applicability to the evaluation of orofacial clefts. This article summarizes the features of orofacial anomalies detectable by ultrasound and the imaging techniques useful for early diagnosis.