P10.01: Professional opinion of nuchal translucency screening in West Midlands

Nuchal translucency (NT) is fluid within the soft tissue at the back of the fetal neck, which can be measured at 11–14 weeks' gestation. Several groups have demonstrated an association between increased NT and aneuploidy, particularly Down syndrome. There is no doubt that first trimester screening can achieve as good if not better results than a second trimester biochemical screening test. NT scanning is a skilled procedure, requiring high-resolution equipment and appropriately trained staff. Resources implication in ultrasound are the major barrier to the widespread introduction of NT screening in many centres. The study explores the views of the professionals undertaking ultrasound examination with regard to NT scanning in the first trimester. A postal questionnaire required 15 responses was sent to all professionals (No 150) undertaking Obstetric scanning in the 20 West Midland's maternity units. The questionnaire addressed the details of their experience in Obstetric scanning, NT measurement, how they feel personally about offering NT, about NHS offering it, how NT fits into NHS priority from their point of view and if they think that some hospital should offer NT screening and other not. 81 professionals returned the questionnaire (54%), 5.8% are currently undertaking NT screening test, 28% are accredited, 51% stated that most of their patients (> 80%) would wish to have this test if it is offered, 78% were personally keen on offering the test. 82% think that NHS should introduce this test soon, in the next 2–3 years. Most of the of them (85%) felt that all hospitals should offer NT to avoid inequality within the NHS. Professionals are very keen on undertaking NT screening. They are willing to undertake this test and need encouragement and facilitation of training.