Doppler ultrasound fetal velocimetry and its role in obstetrics

Abnormal waveforms are seen in association with intrauterine growth restriction, but so far, using the Doppler technique as a screening test to identify unrecognized cases has been disappointing. The waveform changes appear to be associated with a reduced number of small fetal arterioles in the fetal placenta. The interpretation of waveforms is still uncertain and should not be used as a basis for management but rather to increase fetal surveillance by conventional means.