TIFFA Scan: Price, Purpose, Importance, & More
Medically Reviewed By
Prof. Ashok Rattan
Written By Muskan Taneja
on Oct 30, 2024
Last Edit Made By Muskan Taneja
on Oct 30, 2024
TIFFA scan is an important ultrasound scan during pregnancy. During pregnancy, a TIFFA scan, also known as Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies Scan, is performed to examine the development and structure of the fetus. The name fetal anomaly scan or level 2 ultrasound is also popularly used for TIFFA scan.
It is an important scan usually performed during the second trimester, i.e., the 18th and 22nd week of pregnancy. The test also looks at congenital abnormalities. Let’s understand all about the TIFFA scan and its importance during pregnancy.
What is the TIFFA Scan?
The TIFF scan’s full form is Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies. It is a comprehensive ultrasound scan that analyzes your unborn baby’s health, growth, and development in your womb.
The TIFFA scan helps your doctor grab insightful information, which helps make an informed decision during pregnancy. Proper fetus analysis is important in a woman’s pregnancy.
The TIFFA ultrasound scan provides clear images of the fetus in two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D), color or black-and-white images.
What Does A TIFFA Scan Detect in a Fetus?
The TIFFA scan can detect the following stangs in a fetus.
- Facial contours
- Size & structure of the brain
- Baby’s spine and ribcage
- Baby’s heartbeat includes valves, atria, and the ventricles.
- Baby’s limbs
- Kidneys to check urine production.
What’s the Right Time To Perform TIFFA Scan?
The correct baby’s gestational age for a TIFFA scan is between 19 and 20th weeks. During this time, a baby’s brain produces millions of motor neurons.
The right time to perform the TIFFA Scan is between the 18th and 22nd week of pregnancy. The TIFFA ultrasound scan detects any further complications in the mother’s health. Any abnormalities or abnormal scans may detect a serious condition in a child.
How to Prepare for the TIFFA Scan?
The TIFFA scan is conducted in the second trimester of pregnancy, and during this trimester, a baby has developed enough for its abdomen to be scanned.
- Clothes- Since a woman’s tummy is scanned, wear comfortable clothes or a two-piece dress, which makes the ultrasound easy.
- Medications- Not all medications suit you during pregnancy. Take only prescribed medicines or consult with your doctor before taking medications.
- Allergy- The TIFFA scan requires applying gel to your stomach. Check if you have any allergies to latex or an ultrasound gel.
- Hydration- The TIFFA scan needs bladder scanning. Drink a few glasses before the ultrasound to help your sonographer see your baby.
Can TIFFA Scan Harm The Baby?
No, the TIFFA scan poses no harm to the baby. Studies show that a TIFFA scan is safe for the baby, embryo, or pregnant woman.
What Are The Benefits of the TIFFA Scan?
The TIFFA Scan is a pivotal scan that offers a detailed idea of your fetus's health, growth, and development. It is a non-invasive, painless, and seamless ultrasound scan. The scan provides several benefits.
- The TIFFA scan detects abnormalities and helps your doctor make informed medical decisions.
- The TIFFA scan gives a sense of relief to parents and their families regarding their baby.
- The TIFFA scans and detects any structural issues early, allowing your healthcare provider to make appropriate management decisions.
- With this ultrasound, parents can prepare financially, emotionally, and practically to care for their baby.
What Happens If Any Abnormality is Discovered in the TIFFA Scan Report?
In the TIFFA scan, no abnormalities are found in the fetus. Your sonographer will suggest a second scan, even if an abnormality is located. The TIFFA scan result depends on the severity of the abnormality:
Before looking for different scanning processes, mild abnormalities can be cured with time, knowledge, care, and support.
If any severe abnormalities are located, do not panic, consult your doctor. They can provide correct and informed treatment.
In some fetuses, no abnormalities are detected. However, a baby is born with an exception.
Your sonographer or specialist can look for a second option for further testing.
What’s The TIFFA Scan Cost?
The TIFFA scan cost varies from location to location. The ultrasound ranges from INR 1500 to 2500. The scan helps to catch skeletal abnormalities, neurological issues, and hereditary disorders in a fetus.
Key Takeaways
A TIFFA scan is a preventive ultrasound screening. It helps to detect fetal abnormalities during pregnancy. With early diagnosis and preventive measures, you can prevent further complications in pregnancy. The TIFFA scan is the latest medical technology that contributes to a healthy lifestyle. Before taking the TIFFA scan, consult your medical professional for a better understanding.
FAQs
Ques1 When is a TIFFA Scan done in pregnancy?
Ans1 The right time for a TIFFA scan is during the 18th and 22nd week of pregnancy.
Ques2 Can a TIFFA scan help see any abnormality in a baby?
Ans2 Yes, the test can reveal any abnormalities in the baby. Nonetheless, your doctor can suggest further diagnostic examination and consultation to confirm the diagnostic results and effective treatment options.
Ques3 What does the TIFFA scan detect?
Ans3 A TIFFA scan can detect many abnormalities in the baby’s brain, heart, spine, limbs, or other organs.
Ques4: Is it mandatory to have a TIFFA scan?
Ans4 TIFFA scan is a preventive ultrasound scan that should be avoided. Usually, medical professionals suggest the TIFFA scan during the second trimester of pregnancy.
Ques5 How much does the TIFFA scan cost?
Ans5 A TIFFA scan cost differs based on location and lab. Its costs range from INR 1500 and 2500.
