The anatomy scan, often called the Level 2 ultrasound or 20-week scan, is a comprehensive prenatal screening performed during the second trimester. This detailed examination monitors fetal development and identifies potential structural variations early in the pregnancy. Understanding the timeframe for receiving the official report is important for expectant parents and their care team.
Understanding the Anatomy Scan Procedure
The anatomy scan is a non-invasive imaging test that uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the fetus and surrounding structures. It is typically scheduled between 18 and 22 weeks of gestation, when the baby is large enough for a thorough assessment of its organs and limbs. The examination focuses on specific fetal anatomy, including the heart’s four chambers, brain structures, the spine, kidneys, and limbs, to ensure expected development.
The procedure is performed by a specialized healthcare professional known as a sonographer or ultrasound technician. This professional acquires the necessary measurements and images, following a detailed checklist of anatomical structures. Although the sonographer collects the data and may note any observations, they are generally not permitted to provide a formal diagnosis.
The collected images and measurements are then sent to a physician for professional interpretation. This reviewer is usually a radiologist or a Maternal-Fetal Medicine (MFM) specialist, trained in reading complex prenatal imaging. This division of labor separates image acquisition from the final, official diagnostic report.
The Standard Timeline for Receiving Results
The timeline for receiving anatomy scan results involves two distinct phases: immediate feedback and the official report delivery. If the scan is performed at an obstetrician’s office, the referring physician may review the images immediately. This allows the doctor to discuss the initial findings with the patient right after the procedure is complete.
For many patients, however, the official results are not delivered until the images are formally reviewed by a specialist. The radiologist or MFM physician analyzes the comprehensive set of images and dictates a report to the referring physician, which usually takes a few business days. The time from the scan until the referring OB/GYN or midwife receives and reviews the final report typically ranges from one to seven business days.
The specific protocol of the imaging facility and the referring medical practice determines whether the patient is called with the results or if they are discussed at the next scheduled prenatal appointment. In the absence of immediate concerns, patients are often advised that no news is good news, with a full discussion reserved for the next routine visit.
Factors That Can Delay Final Results
Several factors can extend the time it takes to receive the final anatomy scan results. A common reason for delay is image quality, which can be affected by the position of the fetus or the mother’s body habitus. If the baby is not positioned for clear visualization of a certain organ, such as the heart or face, the sonographer may be unable to complete the required measurements.
In cases of incomplete imaging, a follow-up scan, sometimes called a repeat anatomy scan, must be scheduled to obtain the missing views. Systemic issues can also slow the process, including high patient volume at the imaging center or a temporary shortage of radiologists. The sheer level of detail in a Level 2 ultrasound naturally requires more interpretation time than a general screening.
The identification of a finding that requires specialized consultation can also cause a delay in the final report. If the reviewing radiologist notes a specific observation, they may request a second opinion from a Maternal-Fetal Medicine specialist before finalizing the official report. This consultative step ensures the most accurate interpretation but can add days to the overall turnaround time.
What Happens After Receiving Results
Once the referring physician receives the official report, they communicate the findings to the patient and outline the next steps in their care plan. If the results are normal and reassuring, the pregnancy continues with the established routine prenatal care schedule. This outcome is the most frequent experience for expectant parents following the anatomy scan.
If the scan reveals a finding that is unclear or suggests a potential structural variation, the care team will recommend further diagnostic testing. This might include a specialized ultrasound, such as a fetal echocardiogram to examine the baby’s heart in greater detail. Genetic counseling may also be offered to discuss the implications of certain findings and explore options like amniocentesis.
The goal of any follow-up is not to provide an immediate diagnosis but to gather more definitive information to guide the remainder of the pregnancy and delivery plan. Inconclusive results, such as a finding that might resolve on its own, may only require a repeat ultrasound in a few weeks to monitor the situation. The entire process is centered on clarity and ensuring the best possible support for the baby’s development.