Procedures, guidelines and reports

The Antenatal screening for Down syndrome and other conditions: Guidelines for health practitioners will assist practitioners to discuss screening options in a nationally consistent and safe way, and provide women with information to make an informed decision about screening.

Hard copies of these guidelines are available from our Publications Centre on (04) 496 2277, Ministry of Health Publications, Sector Operations Contact Centre, Private Bag 3015, Whanganui 4540, or email customerservice@moh.govt.nz Please quote: HP5409

First trimester ultrasound reports

The NSU NT Working Group has developed a best practice format for first trimester ultrasound reports.

The reports aim to ensure consistency of reporting and assist with providing the information that laboratories require to perform first trimester screening for Down syndrome and other conditions.

There are three different reports and two versions of each – a completed sample and a blank template available for downloading on this page.

• Singleton pregnancy – First trimester ultrasound report to Laboratory and Lead Maternity Carer (LMC) use this form if the same report is sent to both parties.
• Singleton pregnancy – First trimester ultrasound report to LMC if different from Laboratory
• Twin pregnancy

Removal of nasal bone measurement

From 26 March 2018, the nasal bone measurement will be removed from the risk algorithm for Down syndrome and other conditions. Nasal bone identification has only ever been an optional part of this screening, and has only been included in the risk algorithm if reported at the same time as the fetal nuchal translucency and crown rump length ultrasound measurements by radiology.

The NSU has decided to remove nasal bone identification from the risk algorithm for Down syndrome and other conditions based on advice from clinical and technical experts. This decision is supported by the DSOC Technical Working Group and radiology sector.