Publication:

Comparison of Doppler studies in normal pregnancy and high risk pregnancy and their perinatal outcome

Background Doppler ultrasound is one of the most valuable techniques available for assessing fetal well-being, especially in high risk pregnancies. It helps to evaluate fetal circulation by measuring blood flow in key vessels. These waveforms are generated based on ultrasound frequency shifts from blood movement and are influenced by factors such as fetal cardiac contraction, blood viscosity, vessel elasticity and vascular resistance.

Methods This is a prospective study.100 pregnant women including normal and high risk pregnancy are selected and they undergo Doppler ultrasonography to assess the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and uterine artery flow parameters. The following indices will be measured: pulsatility index (PI); resistance index (RI) and systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratio. Perinatal outcomes will be recorded and analysed.

Results The PI, RI, and S/D values normal with normal pregnancy group whereas in the high risk group, these values are variable in the uterine and umbilical arteries. In high risk pregnant women shows higher umbilical artery PI and lower middle cerebral artery PI compared to normal pregnant women. Neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admissions in normal pregnancy and high risk pregnancy (5% versus 35%; p<0.01), low APGAR scores in normal pregnancy 3% and high risk pregnancy 25% (p<0.01) and respiratory distress syndrome in normal pregnancy 3% and high risk pregnancy 25% (p<0.01).

Conclusions Evaluating doppler waveforms across different maternal and fetal conditions, we can predict early complications of pregnancy like preeclampsia, IUGR in high risk pregnancy and its management. Abnormal doppler results need frequent antenatal checkups and follow up with doppler waveforms to guiding clinical decision making.