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Perinatal outcomes in isolated single umbilical artery
Amanda L Horton1, Lisa Barroilhet, Honor M Wolfe
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA. Horton.alm@gmail.com
American Journal of Perinatology
|October 27, 2009
Summary
Pregnancies with isolated single umbilical artery (SUA) show lower birth weight and ponderal index. Serial fetal growth assessments are recommended for these pregnancies.
Area of Science:
- Perinatal Medicine
- Fetal Development
- Neonatal Outcomes
Background:
- Single umbilical artery (SUA) is a common umbilical cord anomaly.
- Isolated SUA, without other fetal anomalies, requires careful evaluation for potential adverse outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare perinatal outcomes in pregnancies with isolated SUA versus a normal three-vessel cord (3VC).
- To identify specific adverse outcomes associated with isolated SUA.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 68 pregnancies with isolated SUA and 68 with 3VC.
- Exclusion of pregnancies with structural or karyotypic anomalies.
- Comparison of gestational age, birth weight, SGA rate, ponderal index, and NICU admission rates.
Main Results:
- Neonates with isolated SUA had significantly lower birth weight (P=0.0168) and ponderal index (P=0.001).
- No significant difference in Small for Gestational Age (SGA) rates (P=0.06).
- Isolated SUA group had longer Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) stays (P<0.023).
Conclusions:
- Isolated SUA is associated with reduced fetal growth, indicated by lower ponderal index.
- Serial fetal growth assessments are crucial for pregnancies diagnosed with isolated SUA.
- Further monitoring may be necessary to manage potential NICU admissions.
