EP06.21: Prenatal ultrasound characteristics and prognosis analysis of biliary atresia

To explore the value of prenatal ultrasound in evaluating the biliary system for diagnosing biliary atresia (BA) and analysing its prognostic implications. Women who had undergone second trimester fetal system ultrasound screening in our hospital from December 2016 to December 2022 were included in this study. Our centre utilised a comprehensive four-step approach to evaluate the fetal biliary system during the second trimester. In cases of abnormalities, neonatal ultrasound examination should be performed within one month after delivery and followed up for a minimum of 6 months postpartum. The final diagnosis was based on surgical procedures, liver biopsy pathology, imaging findings, and clinical follow-up outcomes. The research encompassed a total of 45,020 cases, including 359 cases (0.79%, 359/45,020) suspected to have biliary abnormalities. Postpartum diagnosis confirmed the presence of BA in 14 cases (0.03%, 14/45020), including 10 cases of the suspect biliary abnormality (2 cases of the small GB, 3 cases of the non-visualisation of fetal GBr, 5 cases showed the hepatic hilar cyst) and 4 cases of the normal fetal biliary system. Notably, significant statistical differences were observed in terms of size of cysts, shape of cysts, cystic changes, and gallbladder morphology between BA and biliary dilatation groups (all P < 0.05). While the prognosis for biliary atresia splenic malformation syndrome was generally unfavourable among BA cases; others undergoing surgery typically had favourable outcomes. This study revealed the prenatal ultrasound manifestations, accuracy and prognosis of BA, which is conducive to the clinical informed decision-making of BA. Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.