What percentage of fetal anomalies can be detected via ultrasound?

The ability of ultrasound to detect fetal anomalies has been well established in prenatal care. More than 50% of fetal anomalies, particularly structural abnormalities, can be identified during routine ultrasound examinations. This detection rate can vary by the type and stage of pregnancy as well as the skill of the ultrasonographer, but generally, the majority of significant congenital anomalies are visible in a comprehensive evaluation, especially during the second trimester anatomy scan.

Structural anomalies like spina bifida, congenital heart defects, and certain chromosomal abnormalities can be seen with high accuracy, leading to the conclusion that more than half of all fetal anomalies can be detected via ultrasound. Additionally, advanced techniques and higher-resolution imaging have improved detection rates, supporting the statistic that more than 50% of these anomalies are identifiable.

While the other percentages reflect limitations in detection based on various factors, they do not capture the broader scope of ultrasound's capabilities in revealing significant fetal conditions that can benefit from early intervention or planning for care at delivery.