Related Experiment Videos
[Umbilical Doppler velocimetry in prolonged pregnancies]
B de Rochambeau1, N Jabbour, G Mellier
1Clinique Obstétricale, Université Claude Bernard, Pavillon K, Hôpital Edouard-Herriot, Lyon.
Revue Francaise De Gynecologie Et D'Obstetrique
|May 1, 1992
Summary
Monitoring placental resistance index (R = D/S) in post-term pregnancies helps identify fetal distress. An index above 0.54 indicated increased risk, prompting timely intervention for healthier outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Fetal Medicine
- Perinatal Diagnostics
Background:
- Post-term pregnancies require careful monitoring to prevent adverse outcomes.
- Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry is a non-invasive tool for assessing fetoplacental circulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of placental resistance index (R = D/S) in managing post-term pregnancies.
- To determine if Doppler-derived placental resistance index can predict fetal distress and guide delivery decisions.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring 187 normally progressing, full-term pregnancies every 2 days post-term.
- Utilizing conventional methods and umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry (placental resistance index R = D/S) in 132 cases.
- Analyzing fetal heart rate, clinical signs of post-maturity, and neonatal acidosis in relation to the resistance index.
Main Results:
- A normal umbilical index at 280-300 days gestation was R = 0.52 +/- 0.041.
- Fetal distress and post-maturity signs increased beyond term, correlating with an index above RI = 0.54.
- In a randomized group, induction of labor when RI exceeded 0.54 (two consecutive readings) led to fewer post-mature infants without increased Cesarean rates.
Conclusions:
- The placental resistance index (R = D/S) is a valuable indicator in managing post-term pregnancies.
- An elevated resistance index (RI > 0.54) serves as a reliable criterion for timely intervention, such as induction of labor.
- Using Doppler velocimetry to guide delivery decisions in post-term pregnancies can improve neonatal outcomes and reduce post-maturity complications.