Pregnancy is one of the most exciting yet delicate phases of a woman’s life. Every expectant parent hopes for a healthy, smooth pregnancy and reassurance that their baby is developing well. One important milestone in this journey is the TIFFA scan, a key diagnostic ultrasound recommended during the second trimester. If you’ve heard this term for the first time, you may wonder what it means, why it is done, and what it can detect. This blog breaks it down clearly, so you understand its purpose and importance.
At Avis Ultrasound Scanning Centre, Nallagandla, we regularly perform TIFFA scans for expecting mothers, helping them receive clarity, reassurance, and timely medical guidance when needed.
What Is a TIFFA Scan?
TIFFA stands for Targeted Imaging for Fetal Anomalies. It is a detailed ultrasound scan performed between 18–22 weeks of pregnancy. Compared to a regular obstetric ultrasound, the TIFFA scan is much more comprehensive — it takes a close look at each part of the baby’s body to detect abnormalities in growth, structure, and organ development.
This scan is also called:
- Level-II ultrasound
- Anomaly scan
- Mid-pregnancy structural scan
A TIFFA scan is recommended for all pregnant women, regardless of whether risk factors exist. For mothers with diabetes, hypertension, previous pregnancy complications, or high-risk pregnancies, the scan becomes even more important.
Why Is the TIFFA Scan Performed?
The primary purpose of this scan is early detection of fetal anomalies. It provides crucial information about:
- Whether the baby is growing normally
- How organs and bones have formed
- Presence of any physical abnormalities
- Placental position and amniotic fluid levels
Detecting issues early helps doctors plan treatment, interventions, or delivery care, ensuring the best possible outcome for mother and baby.
What Abnormalities Can Be Detected?
TIFFA scan examines almost every part of the baby’s anatomy, which means it can detect a wide range of structural and developmental issues. Below are the major categories evaluated:
1. Brain and Central Nervous System Abnormalities
The sonographer evaluates fetal brain structure, skull shape, ventricles, and neural tube closure. Possible abnormalities detected include:
- Hydrocephalus (excess fluid in the brain)
- Spina bifida
- Anencephaly
- Encephalocele
- Brain cysts or abnormal brain development
Early identification enables planning for specialist neonatal care.
2. Heart and Major Blood Vessel Defects
The fetal heart is checked for four chambers, valves, and major vessels. This scan may detect:
- Congenital heart defects
- Ventricular or atrial septal defects (holes in the heart)
- Tetralogy of Fallot
- Abnormal heart positioning
- Major vascular abnormalities
Heart defects can often be managed when detected early, sometimes requiring delivery in a specialized cardiac care centre.
3. Facial and Structural Abnormalities
TIFFA scan also looks at facial features to detect visible anomalies like:
- Cleft lip and cleft palate
- Facial bone abnormalities
- Underdeveloped jaw
- Eye spacing or nasal issues
These conditions may require early counselling and surgical planning after birth.
4. Spine, Limbs, and Skeletal Development
Detailed assessment of bones can detect conditions such as:
- Clubfoot
- Missing or shortened limbs
- Fractures or abnormal bone mineralization
- Curved spine
- Skeletal dysplasia
This helps prepare healthcare teams for orthopedic evaluation at birth.
5. Abdominal and Organ Abnormalities
The scan also checks fetal organs such as stomach, kidneys, liver, bladder, and intestines. It can detect:
- Gastroschisis / omphalocele (organs outside the body)
- Renal cysts or absence of one/both kidneys
- Enlarged kidneys or urinary tract blockage
- Diaphragmatic hernia (opening in diaphragm causing organs to shift)
These findings help doctors plan monitoring and, when possible, treatment before or after delivery.
6. Placental and Umbilical Cord Issues
The TIFFA scan also evaluates:
- Placenta previa
- Placental insufficiency
- Abnormal cord insertion
- Single umbilical artery
- Amniotic fluid abnormalities
Some of these conditions may change delivery timing or require frequent monitoring.
Benefits of Having a TIFFA Scan
- Gives reassurance about your baby’s growth and development
- Detects abnormalities early
- Helps doctors manage high-risk pregnancies
- Allows parents to emotionally and medically prepare
- Helps plan delivery at a suitable centre if complications exist
In most pregnancies, TIFFA scan results are normal, giving parents peace of mind.
How the TIFFA Scan Is Done – What to Expect
The procedure is similar to a routine pregnancy ultrasound:
- You lie comfortably on the examination table
- Gel is applied on the abdomen
- The sonographer slowly scans using the probe
- Images are viewed in real time
- The report follows after evaluation
The scan usually takes 20–45 minutes depending on baby position and required measurements. It is painless, safe, and uses no radiation.
Why Choose Avis Ultrasound Scanning Centre, Nallagandla?
Accuracy is everything in a TIFFA scan. Because this test requires precise measurement and anatomical assessment, the expertise of the radiologist matters.
At Avis Ultrasound Scanning Centre, Nallagandla, expecting mothers receive:
- Advanced ultrasound technology
- Experienced radiologists skilled in fetal anomaly scanning
- A calm, comfortable, and private environment
- Ethical reporting and clear explanation of results
- Guidance on further care if required
Our goal is to make every mother feel supported medically and emotionally.
Book Your TIFFA Scan Today
If you are between 18–22 weeks of pregnancy, this is the right time to schedule your TIFFA scan.
Call +91 88774 69999 to book your appointment at Avis Ultrasound Scanning Centre, Nallagandla.
Your peace of mind begins with clarity, we’re here to support you every step of the way.