[Ultrasound screening in pregnancy--a critical analysis of the literature].

This paper--by reviewing the relevant medical literature--investigates whether at all and under which circumstances ultrasonic screening in pregnancy can be an efficient and cost-effective health policy measure. The author looks into the question of long-term side effects, as well as the effectiveness of screening for the assessment of intra-uterine growth retardation, the gestational age and congenital malformations. Cost-effectiveness of routine screening for all pregnant women is also discussed. The author concludes that screening should only be carried out in selected groups of patients, according to strict criteria of indication. On the basis of current knowledge screening for all pregnant women is neither an efficient nor a cost-effective health policy measure.