Journal of ultrasound in medicine
Audio Summaries

Multimodal Nomogram for the Prenatal Risk Assessment of Hypoplastic Left Heart Syndrome Using Self-Supervised Learning

May 9, 2026

The authors aim to develop and validate a multimodal nomogram for the prenatal risk assessment of hypoplastic left heart syndrome (HLHS) by identifying significant risk factors through a retrospective study of pregnancies. They utilized a self-supervised learning approach to extract features from cardiac ultrasound images, resulting in a nomogram that demonstrated high accuracy and outperformed traditional models and less experienced sonographers. The study highlights key risk factors, such as the area ratios of the heart chambers, which warrant further clinical investigation.

Non-invasive Reduction of Accessory Breast Fat Using Multilayer High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound: A Quantitative Ultrasound-Based Study

May 9, 2026

The study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) in reducing subcutaneous fat thickness in axillary accessory breast tissue. Results showed a significant mean reduction of 3.4 mm (17.7%) in fat thickness after 8 weeks, along with high satisfaction rates and no serious adverse events, indicating that HIFU is a promising alternative to surgical excision for this condition.

Feasibility and Reproducibility of a Structure-Guided Deep Learning Model for Automatic Detection of the Standard Sagittal Plane in First-Trimester Nuchal Translucency Assessment Using 3D Ultrasound

May 9, 2026

This study aimed to develop and validate a deep learning model, "3D MSP-net," for the automated extraction of the mid-sagittal plane (MSP) in first-trimester nuchal translucency assessments using 3D ultrasound, addressing the challenges of anatomical variability and operator dependence in conventional methods. The results demonstrated that 3D MSP-net achieved a high extraction success rate of 91.6% and provided comparable nuchal translucency measurements to traditional methods, indicating its feasibility and reproducibility in improving prenatal diagnostics.

Assessment of Fetal Cardiac Function and Pregnancy Outcomes in Well-Controlled Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Using Novel Ultrasound Technology: A Prospective Case-Control Study

May 8, 2026

The authors aimed to investigate how well-controlled gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects fetal cardiac function and to evaluate the predictive ability of cardiac function parameters for adverse pregnancy outcomes using a novel ultrasound technology, HOLO-PW. They found that fetal cardiac function was significantly altered in GDM pregnancies, with specific parameters showing strong predictive capabilities for adverse outcomes, leading to the development of a nomogram for clinical use. However, the authors note that further external validation is necessary before implementing their findings in clinical practice.

Point-of-Care Ultrasound for the Diagnosis of Hip Effusion in Children Presenting to the Emergency Department With Atraumatic Limp or Hip Pain: A Scoping Review

May 8, 2026

This scoping review investigates the diagnostic accuracy of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) for detecting hip effusion in children with atraumatic limp or hip pain presenting to the emergency department. The authors found that POCUS demonstrated high sensitivity (80%-98%) and specificity (91%-98%), particularly when performed by emergency medicine physicians with varying levels of training. They conclude that while POCUS is a promising tool for pediatric evaluation, further large-scale studies are needed to validate its integration into clinical practice.

Sonography-Assisted Management of Suspected Retained Products of Conception upon Completion of the Puerperium: A Prospective Single-Center Study

May 7, 2026

This study aimed to determine the effectiveness of transvaginal sonography performed 6 weeks postpartum in stratifying the risk of retained products of conception (RPOC) in women with suspected cases. The findings indicated that this timing improved diagnostic accuracy, particularly for moderate probability cases, allowing for a more conservative management approach while reducing unnecessary interventions. Ultimately, the study supports the use of sonographic assessment to guide follow-up care in hemodynamically stable women without significant symptoms.

Fetal Renal Artery Doppler Changes in Monochorionic Diamniotic Twins Treated by Fetoscopic Lazer Coagulation

May 6, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the changes in fetal renal artery Doppler (RAD) indices before and after fetoscopic laser coagulation (FLC) in monochorionic diamniotic twins with twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) and to assess their potential role in predicting procedural success and diagnosing TTTS. The study found significant reductions in RAD pulsatility index and increases in peak systolic velocity in donor fetuses post-FLC, suggesting that these parameters may reflect the restoration of systemic circulation and could be useful in TTTS assessment and prognostication.

Comparison of Cardiac Function between Uncomplicated Monozygotic Twins and Singleton Fetuses in the Second Trimester by Fetal HQ: A Pilot Study

Apr 30, 2026

The authors aimed to compare cardiac morphology and function between uncomplicated monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twin fetuses and singleton fetuses during the second trimester using the fetal heart quantification (Fetal HQ) technique. The study found that MCDA twins exhibited distinct cardiac geometry and reduced systolic function compared to singletons, indicating potential differences in their developmental trajectories. These findings suggest the need for twin-specific reference ranges to better assess normal cardiac development and early dysfunction.

Non-invasive Vascular Laboratory Evaluation of the Upper Extremity

Apr 30, 2026

The authors aim to evaluate the effectiveness of non-invasive vascular laboratory testing in diagnosing and monitoring upper extremity ischemia caused by various vascular pathologies. They review techniques such as the wrist brachial index and segmental pressure measurements, providing clinical case examples that correlate these methods with Doppler ultrasound and imaging studies. The article highlights the importance of these non-invasive assessments in understanding disease progression and treatment response.

Predictive Value of Uterine Artery Pulsatility Index in Placental Insufficiency across Gestational Stages in a Single Population

Apr 28, 2026

The authors aimed to evaluate the predictive value of the uterine artery pulsatility index (UTPI) for placental insufficiency (PI) at various gestational stages in a high-risk population. They found that while UTPI decreased with advancing gestation in both normal and PI groups, its predictive performance was highest between 24-27 weeks, suggesting a phased monitoring strategy could be beneficial for managing high-risk pregnancies. The study highlights the dynamic nature of UTPI and its potential role in early detection of PI.