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Polyhydramnios and perinatal outcome
J P Phelan1, Y W Park, M O Ahn
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Southern California, School of Medicine, Los Angeles.
Summary
Polyhydramnios, detected in 3.5% of high-risk pregnancies, is linked to increased fetal macrosomia, premature birth, and anomalies. Early detection warrants further fetal surveillance and genetic evaluation.
Area of Science:
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Obstetrics
- Prenatal Diagnostics
Background:
- Polyhydramnios, an excess of amniotic fluid, is a condition that can complicate high-risk pregnancies.
- Antepartum fetal surveillance is crucial for monitoring high-risk pregnancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the incidence and associated adverse outcomes of polyhydramnios in high-risk pregnancies undergoing antepartum fetal surveillance.
- To identify potential underlying causes and recommend further evaluations when polyhydramnios is detected.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 2081 high-risk pregnancy patients.
- Assessment of amniotic fluid volume using the amniotic fluid index (AFI).
- Evaluation of pregnancy outcomes including fetal macrosomia, prematurity, and perinatal morbidity.
Main Results:
- Polyhydramnios was identified in 72 (3.5%) of the high-risk patients.
- Patients with polyhydramnios showed a higher incidence of fetal macrosomia, premature births, non-reactive nonstress tests, perinatal morbidity, and fetal anomalies.
- These adverse outcomes underscore the significance of polyhydramnios as a potential indicator of underlying complications.
Conclusions:
- Polyhydramnios in high-risk pregnancies necessitates consideration of potential underlying conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, fetal macrosomia, or fetal anomalies.
- Enhanced fetal surveillance and genetic evaluation are recommended upon detection of polyhydramnios to optimize perinatal outcomes.