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F37Serial measurements of ductus venosus flow velocity waveforms and nuchal translucency thickness: relationship with fetal outcome
Author(s) -
Bilardo C. M.,
Müller M. A.,
Pajkrt E.,
Bleker O.P.
Publication year - 2000
Publication title -
ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 3.202
H-Index - 141
eISSN - 1469-0705
pISSN - 0960-7692
DOI - 10.1046/j.1469-0705.2000.00015-1-37.x
Subject(s) - ductus venosus , medicine , fetus , nuchal translucency measurement , cardiology , nuchal translucency , blood flow , obstetrics , pregnancy , prenatal diagnosis , genetics , biology
Background In a previous study we have demonstrated that a statistically significant relationship exist between nuchal translucency (NT) thickness and ductus venosus flow measurements. Moreover we have shown that a decrease in NT thickness at a subsequent examinationl reduces the chance of an abnormal outcome. The aim of this study was to investigate the interrelationship between NT thickness and ductus venosus Doppler measurement (a‐wave, pulsatility index PI) at repeated examinations and their relationship with fetal outcome. Method Ductus venosus flow velocity waveforms and NT thickness were measured twice (median 4 days range 2–7) in 36 fetuses with increased nuchal thickness. Results According to the behaviour in the two parameters the fetuses were divided into three categories: unchanged both abnormal (1), unchanged only NT persistently abnormal (2) and changed NT decreased. The fetuses in group 1 had a 20 fold increase chance of an abnormal outcome (chromosomal anomalies, unexplained intrauterine death, congenital anomalies, cardiac defects n .). Conversely fetuses in group 3 had a lower chance of an abnormal outcome than group 1 and 2. Conclusion In fetuses with normal karyotype the finding of persistently increased NT and ductus venosus flow represents a poor prognostic factor, more than when nuchal translucency alone is persistently abnormal.