Genetic counseling in a case of congenital hemivertebrae.

A case of in utero spondylothoracic dysostoses is diagnosed during a routine third trimester ultrasound scan in a low-risk patient. Ultrasound showed spine deformation, hemivertebrae and crab-like ribs. The newborn had no other associated anomalies except inguinal hernia, and karyotype was normal.

Fetal extremity kinetics quantified with Doppler ultrasonography.

Aims: To assess the responsive fetal extremity movement to vibro-acoustic stimulation test (VAST).

Methods: The moving velocity of fetal femur was assessed after VAST by pulsed Doppler device. The ultrasonic beam was insonated at a right angle to the fetal femur.

Gastroschisis: primary closure using umbilical cord strengthened by a polypropylene mesh.

Aims: We present a new method of repairing gastroschisis, where the disproportion between the size of the eviscerated intestine and the hypoplastic abdominal cavity could dangerously elevate abdominal pressure if primary closure of the abdominal wall is attempted.

Methods: We used umbilical cord graft strengthened by a polypropylene mesh to achieve definitive closure of the abdominal wall in a single operation.

Results: This technique provides a mesothelial surface in contact with the intestines, strengthened by a fibrous reaction that prevents future herniation.

Tele-virtual sonography.

Objectives: 3D-Ultrasound reconstruction, routinely available since 1994, has brought new technical capabilities such as virtual sonography that can be tele-consulted. Our experience is summarized in the present paper.

Methods: During one year, 73 3D-US volumetric images coming from 34 patients were acquired and 68 were consulted at distance.