Working together on quality improvements for NT and CRL measurements

Accurate nuchal translucency (NT) and crown rump length (CRL) ultrasound measurements are essential for high quality risk results for women who choose to participate in antenatal screening for Down syndrome and other conditions.

To support best practice, the NSU provides information to radiology practices, radiologists and NT practitioners on the quality of NT and CRL measurements. This started with measurements performed during the January to December 2014 period. This feedback has been endorsed by the New Zealand branch of the Royal New Zealand and Australian College of Radiologists (RANZCR) and the New Zealand branch of Australasian Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (ASUM).  

Tools and resources

The Guidelines for nuchal translucency (NT) and crown rump length (CRL) measurements are to outline best practice technique, image review and external quality improvement requirements to ensure best practice scanning for this screening.

The Quality improvements for Antenatal screening - What, Why, How presentations explains what the feedback means, why it is important and how it makes a difference to the risk result for antenatal screening for Down syndrome and other conditions that is provided to women.

View the video below for tips and techniques for optimising images for the NT scan.

Invitation to feedback to the NSU

Your thoughts and suggestions on the process and NSU resources are most welcome.

Please do not hesitate to contact Michelle Hooper, Senior Advisor Antenatal and Newborn Screening by email ([email protected]) if you have any questions, concerns or suggestions either on your feedback or to improve the process.