Background In 2010, the UK Fetal Anomaly Screening Programme (FASP)introduced targets varying between 50% and 98% for the antenatal detectionof elevencongenital anomalies*. Auditing these standards is complex, requiring an understanding oftrust size, case mix, the rarity of anomalies, screening uptake and the local obstetric population.

Aim To compare antenatal detection rates achieved by eight trusts within the region covered by the East Midlands and South Yorkshire Congenital Anomaly Register (EMSYCAR) between 2010 and 2011.

Methods Data were obtained for 651 cases, identified by relevant ICD-10 codes,delivered between 1/1/10 and 31/12/11. Bilateral renal agenesis and ‘lethal skeletal dysplasias’ were excluded, as the number of reported cases was too smallto be reliable. The EUROCAT* definition of thirteen ‘serious’ cardiac conditions was adopted. For those cases detected antenatally, gestational age at diagnosis was recorded, and the booking hospital anonymised. Eight trusts of varying size were analysed.

Results Although the vast majority of FASP cases were identified before delivery, only the anencephaly target was met by all eight, while Spina Bifida and Trisomy 18 targets were missed by five. One trust reached only four of nine targets, missing three of the others by a single case.However, none of the FASP targets was achieved by 20 + 6 weeks.

Conclusions Most trusts met expected antenatal detection rates specified by FASP, but not by <20 + 6 weeks. Considerable variability exists both between trusts and anomalies. Data produced here should enable the precise training needs of each trust to be identified more accurately.