Anomaly Scan in Nagpur
(20-Week / Target Scan)
The anomaly scan — also called the 20-week scan or target scan — is the most important structural assessment of your pregnancy. At Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre, this comprehensive examination is performed by Central India's first fetal medicine specialist using India's most advanced AI-enabled ultrasound system.
| Also called | 20-week scan, Target scan, Morphology scan, Level II scan |
| Best timing | 18–22 weeks (ideal: 20–21 weeks) |
| Duration | 45–90 minutes |
| Machine | GE Voluson Signature Expert (AI-enabled) |
| Protocol | ISUOG Level II Fetal Anatomy Survey |
| Who needs it | Every pregnant woman, every pregnancy |
| PCPNDT | Fully compliant — no fetal sex disclosure |
What is the Anomaly Scan?
The anomaly scan — formally known as the ISUOG Level II Detailed Fetal Anatomy Survey — is a comprehensive ultrasound examination performed at 18–22 weeks of pregnancy. It systematically assesses every major organ and structure of the developing fetus from head to toe.
Unlike the NT scan (which screens for chromosomal risk) or a growth scan (which monitors size), the anomaly scan is a structural survey — its purpose is to confirm that your baby's brain, heart, spine, kidneys, limbs, and all other organs are forming normally.
At Mayflower Clinic, the anomaly scan follows the full ISUOG protocol, performed personally by Dr. Kunda Shahane — one of a tiny number of doctors in Central India with the dedicated fetal medicine fellowship (FIFM) and FMF (London) certification to perform and interpret this scan to international standards.
Brain, spine, face, heart, chest, abdomen, kidneys, limbs, placenta, cervix, and amniotic fluid — all evaluated in a single session.
GE Voluson Signature Expert's SonoLyst AI automatically identifies fetal anatomy and verifies ISUOG standard views — reducing scan time by up to 40%.
Dr. Kunda Shahane has personally evaluated over 20,000 fetuses — the deepest anomaly scan experience in Central India.
When Is the Anomaly Scan Done?
The standard window is 18 to 22 weeks of pregnancy. Within this window, the scan can be performed at any point — but not all weeks are equal.
Why 20–21 weeks is ideal: At this gestational age, all major fetal organs are sufficiently developed and large enough to be examined in detail, yet the fetus is still small enough for all structures to be captured in a single scan session without being obscured by fetal position or overlapping anatomy.
If you are past 22 weeks and have not had an anomaly scan, it is still worth having one. Many findings remain detectable beyond this window — please contact Mayflower Clinic and Dr. Kunda Shahane will advise on what can still be meaningfully assessed.
Who Needs the Anomaly Scan?
Every pregnant woman, every pregnancy. The anomaly scan is recommended universally — not just for high-risk pregnancies. Structural abnormalities can occur in any pregnancy, including those with no risk factors and no family history.
The following groups particularly benefit from a specialist-level anomaly scan at Mayflower Clinic:
What Does Dr. Kunda Shahane Evaluate?
The anomaly scan at Mayflower Clinic follows the ISUOG Level II Detailed Fetal Anatomy Survey protocol. Every structure below is systematically assessed, documented, and reported. The table below shows what Dr. Kunda examines in each organ system and what conditions can be identified.
| Body System | What Dr. Kunda Shahane Evaluates | Conditions That Can Be Detected | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brain & Spine | Cerebral hemispheres & lateral ventricles (ventricular width), corpus callosum, cerebellum & vermis, cisterna magna, choroid plexus, posterior fossa, neural tube and full spine (cervical to sacral) | Hydrocephalus Spina bifida Anencephaly Absent corpus callosum Dandy-Walker Holoprosencephaly | |
| Face | Facial profile (mid-face, jaw), upper lip continuity, palate, bilateral eye orbits (size and spacing), nasal bone, ears (position and formation) | Cleft lip / palate Micrognathia Hypotelorism Flat facial profile (T21 marker) Absent nasal bone | |
| Heart | 4-chamber view (ventricular size, wall, septum, AV valves), right & left ventricular outflow tracts (RVOT, LVOT), 3-vessel & trachea view (3VT), cardiac axis and situs, heart size relative to chest, heart rate and rhythm | VSD / ASD Tetralogy of Fallot TGA AVSD HLHS Pulmonary stenosis / atresia Major congenital heart disease | |
| Chest | Both lung fields (size, echogenicity), diaphragm integrity, lung-to-heart ratio, chest wall | Congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) CCAM / CPAM Pleural effusion | |
| Abdomen | Stomach (presence, position), abdominal circumference, abdominal wall (cord insertion site, intactness), liver, bowel echogenicity, umbilical cord vessels | Gastroschisis Omphalocele Absent stomach (oesophageal atresia) Hyperechoic bowel Bowel obstruction | |
| Kidneys & Bladder | Both kidneys — location, size, echogenicity, renal pelvis width (pyelectasis); bladder — presence and size; amniotic fluid volume as indirect kidney function marker | Renal agenesis (absent kidney) Polycystic kidney Hydronephrosis Pelvic kidney Obstructive uropathy | |
| Limbs | All long bones: femur, humerus, radius, ulna, tibia, fibula (bilateral measurements); hands and feet — presence, position, finger/toe count; limb proportionality | Skeletal dysplasia Club foot (talipes) Polydactyly Limb reduction defects Rocker-bottom foot | |
| Placenta | Placental location (anterior / posterior / fundal), lower placental edge (distance from internal os), placental grading and appearance, cord insertion site | Placenta praevia Low-lying placenta Velamentous cord insertion Abnormal placentation | |
| Amniotic Fluid | Amniotic fluid index (AFI) and deepest vertical pool assessment | Polyhydramnios Oligohydramnios | |
| Cervix & Uterus | Cervical length measurement, internal os assessment, uterine structural integrity, fibroids if present | Short cervix (preterm risk) Cervical incompetence Uterine anomalies | |
| Biometric Measurements | BPD (biparietal diameter), HC (head circumference), AC (abdominal circumference), FL (femur length), Estimated Fetal Weight (EFW), growth percentile | Growth restriction (IUGR) Macrosomia Microcephaly Head / body disproportion |
Important: If a cardiac concern is identified on the anomaly scan, Dr. Kunda Shahane will arrange a dedicated fetal echocardiography — a separate, in-depth examination of the fetal heart that goes significantly beyond the cardiac assessment performed in the anomaly scan.
The GE Voluson Signature Expert Advantage
Every anomaly scan at Mayflower Clinic is performed on the GE Voluson Signature Expert — India's most advanced AI-enabled fetal ultrasound system. This is not a standard ultrasound machine; it is the global reference platform for fetal medicine specialists.
GE Voluson Signature Expert
India's most advanced AI-enabled fetal ultrasound system — the same platform used at leading fetal medicine centres worldwide.
The combination of Dr. Kunda Shahane's 20,000+ fetuses of personal experience with the GE Voluson Signature Expert's AI-assisted platform provides a level of anomaly scan accuracy and completeness unavailable anywhere else in Central India.
What Happens if an Abnormality is Found?
A finding on the anomaly scan does not automatically mean a serious outcome. Many findings are minor, resolve with time, or require only careful monitoring. Dr. Kunda Shahane will explain any finding clearly, in language you can understand, and will guide you through the next steps with compassion and clinical precision.
Dr. Kunda explains the finding, its significance, and what it does — and does not — mean. Many soft markers are benign; she will put findings in clinical context.
If a specific structure needs closer review — such as the heart — a dedicated fetal echocardiography or fetal neurosonography may be arranged.
If a chromosomal anomaly is suspected, non-invasive NIPT or invasive testing (amniocentesis) may be discussed and coordinated by Dr. Kunda.
For significant structural findings, Dr. Kunda coordinates with paediatric surgeons, neonatologists, or cardiologists as appropriate so your birth and neonatal care can be planned in advance.
Remember: The purpose of detecting an abnormality before birth is to give you — and your medical team — time to prepare. Early knowledge enables better planning, safer delivery, and better outcomes for your baby.
How to Prepare for Your Anomaly Scan
Preparation for the anomaly scan is simple. Please follow these guidelines so we can obtain the best possible views of your baby's anatomy in a single visit.
| Preparation Item | What to Do |
|---|---|
| Fasting | Not required. Eat and drink normally before your scan. A light meal is fine. |
| Bladder preparation | Drink 2–3 glasses of water (about 600 ml) 30–45 minutes before your appointment. A moderately full bladder helps with imaging. Do not over-fill — it can cause discomfort and make the scan harder. |
| Documents to bring | All previous scan reports (NT scan, viability scan, dating scan), doctor's referral note or prescription, your antenatal card / ANC record, and any genetic test results if done. |
| Time to allow | Please set aside 60–90 minutes for the full anomaly scan. A detailed Level II survey cannot be rushed — Dr. Kunda Shahane examines all 11 organ systems systematically. |
| Companion | You are welcome to bring your partner or a family member. This is an important appointment and having support present can be reassuring. |
| Clothing | Wear loose, comfortable clothing with easy access to your abdomen. No need to undress fully. |
| Booking your appointment | Call 0712-669-2706 or WhatsApp +91-8087471244 to book. Ideally book your anomaly scan between 19–20 weeks to give flexibility if a follow-up view is needed within the 18–22 week window. |
Safety and Limitations
Is the Anomaly Scan Safe?
Yes. Diagnostic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves — not radiation, not X-rays. There are no known harmful effects of diagnostic ultrasound when used appropriately by a qualified specialist. The anomaly scan is completely safe for both you and your baby.
- No radiation: Ultrasound uses sound waves, not ionising radiation. It is completely different from X-rays.
- No injection or blood test: The anomaly scan is entirely non-invasive. Nothing enters your body.
- No harm to fetal development: Decades of research and millions of pregnancies worldwide confirm that diagnostic ultrasound does not harm the developing fetus.
- Performed by a specialist: At Mayflower Clinic, every anomaly scan is performed by Dr. Kunda Shahane — a trained fetal medicine specialist, not a general radiologist or obstetrician.
Limitations of the Anomaly Scan
While the anomaly scan is the most powerful prenatal structural assessment available, it has inherent limitations that every parent should understand:
- Not all abnormalities are visible by ultrasound. Some conditions — including many chromosomal abnormalities, metabolic disorders, and mild functional differences — cannot be seen on ultrasound.
- Detection rates vary. Detection of structural anomalies depends on fetal position, amniotic fluid levels, maternal body habitus, gestational age, and the nature of the abnormality. Even in the best hands, no anomaly scan can guarantee a completely normal baby.
- Some abnormalities develop or become visible later in pregnancy. Certain findings only appear after 22 weeks. Follow-up growth and anatomy scans may be recommended.
- A normal anomaly scan is reassuring but not an absolute guarantee. The scan significantly reduces the probability of major structural abnormality — it does not eliminate it entirely.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between anomaly scan and NT scan?
The NT scan (performed at 11–14 weeks) is primarily a chromosomal risk screening test — it measures the nuchal translucency to calculate the statistical risk of Down syndrome and other chromosomal conditions. It provides a limited structural survey at a stage when the fetus is too small for detailed organ examination.
The anomaly scan (18–22 weeks) is a comprehensive structural survey of all fetal organ systems. By this point, the fetal anatomy is fully developed and large enough for detailed assessment. The two scans serve different, complementary purposes — both are recommended.
Is anomaly scan mandatory in India?
The anomaly scan is not legally mandatory, but it is strongly recommended as standard of care for all pregnancies by the Federation of Obstetric and Gynaecological Societies of India (FOGSI) and international bodies including ISUOG. Most obstetricians and gynaecologists in India advise all pregnant women to have an anomaly scan at 18–22 weeks.
Does anomaly scan tell the sex of the baby?
No. Mayflower Fetal Medicine Centre strictly complies with the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (PCPNDT) Act, 1994. Disclosure of fetal sex is a criminal offence under Indian law. The anomaly scan report does not contain any information about fetal sex. We perform this scan exclusively for medical assessment of fetal anatomy and wellbeing.
What happens if the baby is not in a good position for the scan?
Fetal position can sometimes limit the views obtained during the scan. Dr. Kunda Shahane will ask you to take a short walk, change position, or have a light snack to encourage fetal movement. If adequate views of all structures cannot be obtained in a single session, a follow-up appointment within the recommended gestational age window will be arranged. This is not uncommon and is simply a function of how the fetus is lying at the time of the scan.
Can I see my baby in 3D during the anomaly scan?
The GE Voluson Signature Expert at Mayflower Clinic does have 4D/3D imaging capability. During the medical anomaly scan, Dr. Kunda Shahane focuses on systematic structural assessment. If the position is suitable and time permits, a brief 3D/4D view of the face or limbs may be shared — however, the clinical examination always takes priority. A dedicated 3D/4D ultrasound can be arranged separately if desired.
My anomaly scan was done elsewhere and was "normal" — why am I being referred to Mayflower?
A referral to a dedicated fetal medicine specialist for review does not mean the original scan was wrong. Some findings are subtle and require specialist expertise or high-end equipment for confident assessment. Others may have been noted as needing a specialist review. Dr. Kunda Shahane performs detailed fetal medicine-level review using the GE Voluson Signature Expert and her extensive clinical experience — this adds a further layer of expert assessment for peace of mind or for complex findings.
Is an anomaly scan the same as a growth scan?
No. The anomaly scan is a one-time comprehensive structural survey performed at 18–22 weeks to assess fetal anatomy. A growth scan is a focused measurement of fetal size and growth trajectory, typically done in the second and third trimester to monitor growth and detect IUGR. Both are important but serve different clinical purposes.
What should I do if I am past 22 weeks and have not had an anomaly scan?
Contact Mayflower Clinic immediately on 0712-669-2706 or WhatsApp +91-8087471244. While the ideal window is 18–22 weeks, a detailed fetal anatomy assessment can still be valuable beyond this point — many structures remain assessable, and clinically important findings can still be identified. Dr. Kunda Shahane will advise on what can be meaningfully evaluated at your gestational age.
"The anomaly scan is the most important scan in your entire pregnancy. I say this not to create anxiety — I say it because knowing what is happening inside the womb gives us the greatest possible power to act, to plan, and to prepare. When we detect a finding early, we gain time. Time to investigate further. Time to coordinate with the right specialists. Time for the family to understand and come to terms with what lies ahead. In my experience of evaluating over 20,000 fetuses, the families who are best prepared — because they had a thorough anomaly scan — almost always have better outcomes and less shock at the time of delivery. That preparation begins here."
Book Your Anomaly Scan in Nagpur
Comprehensive Level II fetal anatomy survey by Dr. Kunda Shahane — Central India's first fetal medicine specialist — on the GE Voluson Signature Expert. Available for all pregnancies at 18–22 weeks.
Mayflower Fetal Medicine & High-Risk Pregnancy Centre strictly complies with the Pre-Conception and Pre-Natal Diagnostic Techniques (Prohibition of Sex Selection) Act, 1994. Sex determination and sex-selective practices are strictly prohibited and punishable by law. All ultrasound and prenatal diagnostic services at this centre are performed exclusively for lawful medical indications — fetal anatomy assessment, fetal wellbeing, and diagnosis of maternal-fetal conditions. Disclosure of fetal sex is illegal and is not performed at this centre under any circumstances.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general patient education only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Every pregnancy is unique. Please consult Dr. Kunda Shahane or your treating obstetrician for advice specific to your clinical situation. Do not use this website for emergency medical decisions — in an emergency, contact your nearest hospital immediately.
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