Relationship of DV Doppler Parameters to Perinatal Outcomes in IUGR vs Non-IUGR

Evaluation of the Relationship Between Ductus Venosus Doppler Parameters and Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnancies With and Without Intrauterine Growth Restriction

This observational study investigates whether blood flow in the ductus venosus, a small fetal vein measured by Doppler ultrasound, is related to pregnancy outcomes. A total of pregnant women with and without intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) will be examined between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation. Ductus venosus Doppler parameters will be recorded and compared with perinatal outcomes such as Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and perinatal mortality. The aim of this research is to improve the early identification of high-risk pregnancies and to support better monitoring and management strategies for fetal health.

Detailed Description:

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality and has been associated with impaired fetal circulation. The ductus venosus (DV) plays a critical role in fetal hemodynamics by directing oxygenated blood to the heart and brain. Abnormal DV Doppler waveforms have been linked to adverse perinatal outcomes, particularly in growth-restricted fetuses.

This prospective observational case-control study will include approximately 160 singleton pregnancies between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation, of which 80 will be diagnosed with IUGR and 80 will be healthy controls. Doppler parameters of the DV, including pulsatility index, peak velocity, and a-wave characteristics, will be measured. These values will be correlated with perinatal outcomes such as Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and perinatal mortality.

The study is expected to provide further insight into the predictive value of DV Doppler in differentiating high-risk pregnancies and to contribute to improved prenatal surveillance and management strategies.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Singleton pregnancies between 24 and 37 weeks of gestation Singleton pregnancies with abdominal circumference (AC) and/or estimated fetal weight (EFW) below the 10th percentile for gestational age Singleton pregnancies with abdominal circumference (AC) and/or estimated fetal weight (EFW) between the 10th and 90th percentiles for gestational age

Exclusion Criteria:

Multiple pregnancies Pregnancies with major fetal structural anomalies or chromosomal abnormalities Pregnant women with maternal systemic comorbidities (e.g., diabetes mellitus, chronic hypertension, renal disease, autoimmune disorders) Pregnancies in women under 18 years of age Presence of perinatal infection Pregnancies conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF)

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