Will normal fetuses have malformations?

Patient's question:

I was doing an NT scan when I was three months pregnant, and the result was 1.2. Then, the test was also normal. If I do the structural anomaly scan between 18-24 weeks, I don't know if the fetus will still be abnormal. I have been doing prenatal check-ups since getting pregnant because I am really worried about the baby's health.
What kind of help do I need: Will a normal NT result mean the fetus could still be abnormal?

Doctor's answer:

The hospital conducted an NT value check. This only measures the thickness of the translucent layer in the neck, not major anomaly screening. It is not possible to see if there is spina bifida unless you undergo major anomaly screening. It is essential to have regular prenatal examinations during pregnancy.
The NT check is performed by measuring the thickness of the fetal neck translucency to assess whether the fetus has congenital defects, such as gastrointestinal malformations or short-limb deformities. Spina bifida can be confirmed around the 24th week of pregnancy through 4D ultrasound.
You should ideally have the NT check between weeks 10 and 13 of pregnancy, as this is the best time. After that, you can only check NF. If the neck translucency exceeds 2.5 millimeters, there is a possibility of trisomy 21, but it is not certain. Follow-up testing is sufficient. Your examination shows that the fetus is developing normally. Timely examination and treatment are recommended, and if necessary, prenatal screening for Down syndrome should be performed.

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