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Gomez LM, Willingham L, Wang J, Nasrallah S, Vandillen MB, Mari G. Duration of biophysical profile in periviable and very preterm low-risk pregnancies. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2024:S0002-9378(24)00449-6. [PMID: 38527604 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2024.03.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2024] [Revised: 03/18/2024] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 03/27/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In recent years, perinatal viability has shifted from 24 to 22 weeks of gestation at many institutions after improvements in survival in neonates delivered at the limit of viability. Monitoring these fetuses is essential because antenatal interventions with resuscitation efforts are available for patients at risk of delivery at the limit of viability. However, fetal monitoring using biophysical profiles has not been extensively studied in very preterm pregnancies, particularly in the periviable period (20 weeks 0 days to 23 weeks 6 days). OBJECTIVE This study aimed to (1) investigate whether the completion of biophysical profiles within 30 minutes is feasible in very preterm pregnancies, and (2) determine the average observation time required to achieve a score of 8 out of 8 in very preterm pregnancies from 20 weeks 0 days to 31 weeks 6 days. STUDY DESIGN This study prospectively evaluated biophysical scores in singleton pregnancies undergoing routine ultrasonography at or near viability from 20 weeks 0 days to 23 weeks 6 days (periviable or group I), 24 weeks 0 days to 27 weeks 6 days (group II), and 28 weeks 0 days to 31 weeks 6 days (group III). The results and duration of biophysical profiles were compared with those of a control group (32 weeks 0 days to 35 weeks 6 days) undergoing indicated fetal surveillance. Biophysical profiles were performed for all studied pregnancies until a score of 8 out of 8 was obtained. When >1 biophysical profile was obtained during pregnancy, each was analyzed individually. Pregnancies with fetal anomalies or obstetrical/medical indications for fetal well-being surveillance were excluded. Analysis of variance and post hoc Tukey tests were used for comparisons. RESULTS Data were collected for 123 participants, yielding 79, 75, and 72 studies for groups I, II, and III, respectively. The control group included 42 patients, yielding 140 studies. At 30 minutes, 80% (63/79) of the studies in the periviable group had a score of 8 out of 8, as opposed to 100% (140/140) in the control group (P<.001). The mean±standard deviation time in minutes to achieve a biophysical score of 8 out of 8 was 23.3±10.1 in the periviable group, as opposed to 9.4±6.5 in controls (P<.001). Extending the study to +2 standard deviations (43.6 minutes) in the periviable group resulted in 97% (77/79) of the scans scoring 8 out of 8 in the absence of adverse outcomes. In the other groups, a biophysical score of 8 out of 8 within 30 minutes was obtained in 97% (73/75) and 100% (72/72) in groups II and III, respectively; the mean±standard deviation times were 17.1±8.4 minutes (group II) and 13.1±7.3 minutes (group III). No adverse outcomes developed during the study participation in groups I to III. CONCLUSION Biophysical scores of 8 out of 8 can be successfully achieved in low-risk periviable pregnancies (20 weeks 0 days to 23 weeks 6 days) within an observation time longer than the standard 30-minute duration. The time required to reach a score of 8 out of 8 decreases as gestation progresses. We suggest adjusting the observation time for biophysical profile completion according to the gestational age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luis M Gomez
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN.
| | - Laura Willingham
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Jenny Wang
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Sebastian Nasrallah
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Michael B Vandillen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
| | - Giancarlo Mari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, TN
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Association between Abnormal Antenatal Doppler Characteristics and Gastrointestinal Outcomes in Preterm Infants. Nutrients 2022; 14:nu14235121. [PMID: 36501150 PMCID: PMC9738995 DOI: 10.3390/nu14235121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/13/2022] [Revised: 11/18/2022] [Accepted: 11/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Antenatal Doppler disturbances are associated with fetal hypoxia and may induce a brain-sparing vascular redistribution at the expense of splanchnic circulation, possibly predisposing to gut complications. We aimed to compare several gastrointestinal outcomes among very-low-birthweight (VLBW) preterm infants with different antenatal Doppler features. VLBW infants born between 2010-2022 were retrospectively included and stratified into the following clusters based on antenatal Doppler characteristics: normal Doppler (controls); absent or reversed end-diastolic flow in the umbilical artery (UA-AREDF) alone or also in the ductus venosus (UA+DV-AREDF); and abnormal Doppler with or without brain-sparing redistribution. The following outcomes were evaluated: time to reach full enteral feeds (FEF), feeding intolerance (FI), necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), and spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP). Overall, 570 infants were included. Infants born following UA+DV-AREDF had significantly higher FI, NEC, and SIP rates and achieved FEF later compared to controls. Increased FI prevalence and a longer time to FEF compared to controls were also observed among UA-AREDF infants and in the presence of brain-sparing redistribution, which also increased NEC rates. Antenatal Doppler abnormalities exacerbate the gastrointestinal risks of preterm infants. Detailed knowledge of Doppler features can aid in identifying those at highest risk of intestinal complications who may benefit from tailored enteral feeding management.
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Wibbeke D, Hammer K, Möllers M, Braun J, Köster HA, Falkenberg MK, Oelmeier de Murcia K, Borowski M, Klockenbusch W, Schmitz R. Assessment of the Fetal Cerebral Artery: Importance of Doppler Preset Settings. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2018; 37:621-628. [PMID: 28877357 DOI: 10.1002/jum.14378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Accepted: 06/05/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The Doppler assessment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) has a central role in the monitoring of high-risk pregnancies. The objective of this study was to investigate the importance of Doppler preset settings for measurement of the peak systolic velocity (PSV) and pulsatility index (PI) of the MCA. METHODS The PI and PSV of the MCA were determined prospectively in 350 healthy fetuses between 19 and 42 weeks of pregnancy. The first measurement of the MCA (MCA.S) was performed with the conventional settings and the second (MCA.O) with an optimized setting of the maximum achievable frame rate. For the MCA.O measurement, the width of the B-mode image and the color Doppler window were adjusted as narrowly as possible. In addition, the MCA was shown in optimized high-definition zoom. Resulting values were compared with commonly used reference values. RESULTS The PSV and PI values and frame rates of the MCA.O setting were noticeably greater than those of the MCA.S setting (P < .001 for all). For both settings, the PSV and PI values were increased compared to common reference values. CONCLUSIONS The assessment of the MCA with the optimized Doppler default setting yielded increased PSV and PI values compared to the commonly used measurement technique. Moreover, the resulting median curves differed from the established median reference curves. Therefore, an updated standardization for measuring the MCA should be set out, and current reference values should be adjusted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Denis Wibbeke
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Kerstin Hammer
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Mareike Möllers
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Janina Braun
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Helen Ann Köster
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | | | | | - Matthias Borowski
- Institute of Biostatistics and Clinical Research, University of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Walter Klockenbusch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
| | - Ralf Schmitz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital of Münster, Münster, Germany
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Aditya I, Tat V, Sawana A, Mohamed A, Tuffner R, Mondal T. Use of Doppler velocimetry in diagnosis and prognosis of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR): A Review. J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2017; 9:117-26. [PMID: 27197939 DOI: 10.3233/npm-16915132] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition which has been difficult to assess at an early stage, resulting in the delivery of children who have poor genetic growth potential. Currently, IUGR classification is based upon the system of ultrasound biometry. Doppler velocimetry allows the measurement of hemodynamic flow of major fetal vessels, comparing the flow indices and patterns of normal and IUGR cases. In this review, the effectiveness of Doppler velocimetry in assessing blood flow in major vessels including the umbilical artery, ductus venosus, and middle cerebral artery was studied for both diagnostic and prognostic screening of IUGR. The umbilical artery is the most frequently studied vessel in Doppler velocimetry due to its accessibility and the strength of its associations with fetal outcomes. Abnormalities in the ductus venosus waveform can be indicative of increased resistance in the right atrium due to placental abnormalities. The middle cerebral artery is the most studied fetal cerebral artery and can detect cerebral blood flow and direction, which is why these three vessels were selected to be examined in this context. A potential mathematical model could be developed to incorporate these Doppler measurements which are indicative of IUGR, in order to reduce perinatal mortality. The purpose of the proposed algorithm is to integrate Doppler velocimetry with biophysical profiling in order to determine the optimal timing of delivery, thus reducing the risks of adverse perinatal outcomes.
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Lawin-O'Brien AR, Dall'Asta A, Knight C, Sankaran S, Scala C, Khalil A, Bhide A, Heggarty S, Rakow A, Pasupathy D, Papageorghiou AT, Lees CC. Short-term outcome of periviable small-for-gestational-age babies: is our counseling up to date? ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2016; 48:636-641. [PMID: 27854384 DOI: 10.1002/uog.15973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/04/2016] [Revised: 05/09/2016] [Accepted: 05/18/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE There are limited data for counseling on and management of periviable small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses. We therefore aimed to investigate the short-term outcome of periviable SGA fetuses in relation to the likely underlying cause. METHODS This was a retrospective study of data from three London tertiary fetal medicine centers obtained between 2000 and 2015. We included viable singleton pregnancies with a severely small fetus, defined as those with an abdominal circumference ≤ 3rd percentile, identified between 22 + 0 and 25 + 6 weeks' gestation. Data obtained included fetal biometry, presence of placental anomalies, uterine and fetal Doppler and neonatal outcome. We excluded cases with structural abnormalities, proven or suspected abnormal karyotype or genetic syndromes. Cases were classified according to the suspected underlying cause of the small fetal size into one of the following categories: uteroplacental insufficiency, evidence of placental damage with normal uterine artery Doppler, viral infection, or unclassied. RESULTS There were 245 cases included in the study. Of these, at diagnosis of SGA, 201 (82%) were categorized as uteroplacental cause, 13 (5%) as suspected placental cause, one (0.4%) as suspected viral cause and 30 (12%) could not be assigned to any of these categories. Overall, 101 (41%) cases survived the neonatal period; 89 (36%) underwent in-utero fetal demise, 22 (9%) died neonatally and 33 (14%) pregnancies were terminated. The diagnosis-to-delivery interval was 8.1 weeks in those that survived and 4.5 weeks in those that died neonatally. CONCLUSIONS Almost 90% of periviable SGA cases are associated with uteroplacental insufficiency or intraplacental damage. Survival is related to gestational age at delivery, with outcomes better than might be assumed at diagnosis and some pregnancies reaching term. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
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Affiliation(s)
- A R Lawin-O'Brien
- Centre for Fetal Care, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare, London, UK
| | - A Dall'Asta
- Centre for Fetal Care, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare, London, UK
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Parma, Parma, Italy
| | - C Knight
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - S Sankaran
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - C Scala
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, University of London, London, UK
| | - A Khalil
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, University of London, London, UK
| | - A Bhide
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, University of London, London, UK
| | - S Heggarty
- Department of Neonatology, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare, London, UK
| | - A Rakow
- Department of Neonatology, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare, London, UK
| | - D Pasupathy
- Women's Health Academic Centre, Division of Women's Health, King's Health Partners Biomedical Research Centre, King's College London, London, UK
| | - A T Papageorghiou
- Fetal Medicine Unit, St George's Hospital, University of London, London, UK
| | - C C Lees
- Centre for Fetal Care, Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, Imperial College Healthcare, London, UK
- Department of Surgery and Cancer, Imperial College London, London, UK
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
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Nomura RMY, Niigaki JI, Horigome FT, Francisco RPV, Zugaib M. Doppler velocimetry of the fetal middle cerebral artery and other parameters of fetal well-being in neonatal survival during pregnancies with placental insufficiency. Rev Assoc Med Bras (1992) 2013; 59:392-9. [PMID: 23849713 DOI: 10.1016/j.ramb.2013.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2012] [Revised: 01/02/2013] [Accepted: 02/11/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To study the Doppler velocimetry of the fetal middle cerebral artery in pregnancies complicated by placental insufficiency, and to verify its role in the prognosis of neonatal survival. METHODS This was a prospective study of 93 pregnant women with diagnosis of placental insufficiency detected before the 34(th) week of pregnancy. Placental insufficiency was characterized by abnormal umbilical artery (UA) Doppler (> 95(th) percentile). The following parameters were analyzed: umbilical artery (UA) pulsatility index (PI); middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI; brain-placenta ratio--BPR (MCA-PI/UA-PI); MCA peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV); and PI for veins (PIV) of ductus venosus (DV). The parameters were analyzed in terms of absolute values, z-scores (standard deviations from the mean), or multiples of the median (MoM). The outcome investigated was neonatal death during the hospitalization period after birth. RESULTS Of the 93 pregnancies analyzed, there were 25 (26.9%) neonatal deaths. The group that died, when compared to the survival group, presented a significant association with the diagnosis of absent or reversed end-diastolic flow (88% vs. 23.6%, p<0.001), with a higher median of UA PI (2.9 vs. 1.7, p<0.001) and UA PI z-score (10.4 vs. 4.9, p<0.001); higher MCA-PSV MoM (1.4 vs. 1.1, p=0.012); lower BPR (0.4 vs. 0.7, p<0.001); higher PIV-DV (1.2 vs. 0.8, p<0.001) and DV z-score (3.6 vs. 0.6, p<0.001). In the logistic regression, the independent variables predictive of neonatal death were: gestational age at birth (OR=0.45; 95% CI: 0.3 to 0.7; p<0.001) and UA PI z-score (OR=1.14, 95% CI: 1.0 to 1.3, p=0.046). CONCLUSION Despite the association verified by the univariate analysis between neonatal death and the parameters of fetal cerebral Doppler velocimetry, the multivariate analysis identified prematurity and degree of insufficiency of placental circulation as independent factors related to neonatal death in pregnancies complicated by placental insufficiency.
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Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is commonly defined as an estimated fetal weight of less than the 10th percentile. While 70% of these are small for normal reasons and not at risk, 30% are pathologically small at risk for numerous complications including fetal death. In the late preterm IUGR fetus (>34 weeks), prematurity risks less and the risk of fetal demise becomes the primary concern. Pulsed-wave Doppler interrogation of the umbilical and middle cerebral artery is useful in reducing perinatal mortality, however, Doppler changes in these vessels of the IUGR fetus may not occur after 34 weeks gestation. There are no randomized trials addressing the timing of delivery of the IUGR fetus in the late preterm or early-term period. However, retrospective reports show an increase risk of fetal demise. While timing the delivery of the late preterm/early-term IUGR fetus requires consideration of multiple factors (e.g. degree of growth restriction, etiology, amniotic fluid volume, and biophysical and Doppler testing), available data suggests that delivery should occur by 37 to 38 weeks for singleton IUGR fetuses. In twin pregnancies with a co-twin IUGR fetus, chorionicity also impacts timing of delivery, but delivery should occur by 34-36 weeks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry L Galan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver/Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Gruslin A, Lemyre B. Pre-eclampsia: Fetal assessment and neonatal outcomes. Best Pract Res Clin Obstet Gynaecol 2011; 25:491-507. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2011.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2011] [Accepted: 02/10/2011] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
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Damodaram M, Story L, Eixarch E, Patel A, McGuinness A, Allsop J, Wyatt-Ashmead J, Kumar S, Rutherford M. Placental MRI in intrauterine fetal growth restriction. Placenta 2010; 31:491-8. [PMID: 20347139 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2010.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 51] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2009] [Revised: 02/11/2010] [Accepted: 03/01/2010] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Our objectives were to determine if MR imaging of the placenta could demonstrate a specific placental phenotype in small for gestational age fetuses with increasing severity of fetal growth restriction, and if MRI findings at the time of scan could be used to predict fetal or neonatal mortality. METHOD We included singleton growth restricted fetuses with increasing severity of fetal growth restriction secondary to placental insufficiency. 20 growth restricted fetuses and 28 normal fetuses were scanned once during pregnancy at varying gestations. MRI scans were performed on a 1.5T system using ssFSE sequences through the uterus. Data was collected on the severity of fetal growth restriction and pregnancy outcome, including clinical neonatal details, perinatal mortality, and birthweight and centile. Placental volume, maximal placental thickness, the placental thickness to volume ratio, the placenta to amniotic fluid signal intensity ratio, and the presence of abnormal signal intensity consistent with placental pathology were noted. In a subset of patients, histopathological diagnosis was compared with the MRI appearance of the placenta. RESULTS There was a significant increase in the placental volume affected by pathology in growth restricted fetuses (p < 0.001). The placental appearance was also thickened and globular, with an increase in the placental thickness to volume ratio (p < 0.001). Although placental volume increased with increasing gestation, it remained reduced in the growth restricted fetuses (p = 0.003). There was a significant correlation between the severity of fetal growth restriction and the placental volume affected by pathology, the placental thickness to volume ratio, and the placental volume. ROC analysis showed that fetal or neonatal death was predicted by the percentage of abnormal signal intensity consistent with placental pathology (p = 0.002). The presence of a thickened, globular placenta and a maximal placental thickness to volume ratio above the 95% confidence limit for gestation was significantly associated with an increased incidence of fetal or neonatal mortality (relative risk = 1.615, p = 0.001 and relative risk = 7, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS The MRI appearance of the placenta provides an indication of the severity and underlying disease process in fetal growth restriction. In units where MRI imaging of the growth restricted fetus occurs, we suggest that the assessment of the placenta should also occur as it may contribute to management decisions in cases at the threshold of viability. It may have a role to play in monitoring disease severity, and the effect of future interventions designed to improve placental function.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Damodaram
- Imperial College London, Hammersmith Campus, London, UK.
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Brodszki J, Morsing E, Malcus P, Thuring A, Ley D, Marsál K. Early intervention in management of very preterm growth-restricted fetuses: 2-year outcome of infants delivered on fetal indication before 30 gestational weeks. ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS & GYNECOLOGY : THE OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY OF ULTRASOUND IN OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY 2009; 34:288-296. [PMID: 19705404 DOI: 10.1002/uog.7321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To describe the outcome of growth-restricted fetuses with absent or reversed end-diastolic flow (ARED) in the umbilical artery delivered on fetal indication before 30 gestational weeks. METHODS Between 1998 and 2004, 42 fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and ARED in the umbilical artery were delivered liveborn by Cesarean section on fetal indication before 30 gestational weeks. The median gestational age at delivery was 27 + 1 (range, 24 + 4 to 29 + 5) weeks. An additional four fetuses died in utero at a median gestational age of 24 + 2 (range, 23 + 5 to 25 + 4) weeks. Neonatal morbidity, infant mortality and major neurological morbidity of liveborn infants were compared with those in two control groups: all 371 liveborn infants delivered at < 30 weeks during the corresponding time period (Group A) and a subset of these, 42 matched infants without IUGR (Group B). RESULTS Thirty-two fetuses (76%) [corrected] were delivered within 48 h of the occurrence of ARED (25 absent, seven reversed end-diastolic flow). The remaining 10 fetuses (five absent, five reversed end-diastolic flow) were monitored for a median of 6.5 (range, 3-18) days before delivery. One infant died in the neonatal period and three during the first year of postnatal life (2-year survival 90%). The incidence of chronic lung disease was higher in the ARED Group than in Control Groups A and B (P = 0.001 and P = 0.03, respectively). There were no differences between the groups in the occurrence of necrotizing enterocolitis, cerebral hemorrhage or retinopathy of prematurity. Cerebral palsy was diagnosed in 14% of the index group compared with 11% and 17% of Control Groups A and B (P > 0.05). CONCLUSIONS Very preterm growth-restricted fetuses with umbilical artery ARED delivered on fetal indication, in most cases before the occurrence of severe changes in the ductus venosus velocity waveforms and/or fetal heart rate tracings, showed high 2-year survival and low morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- J Brodszki
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
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Rizzo G, Capponi A, Pietrolucci ME, Boccia C, Arduini D. The significance of visualising coronary blood flow in early onset severe growth restricted fetuses with reverse flow in the ductus venosus. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2009; 22:547-51. [PMID: 19350447 DOI: 10.1080/14767050902801777] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the incidence and significance of coronary blood flow visualisation in early onset severe intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) fetuses and to assess its relationship with the presence of reverse flow in ductus venosus (DV). METHODS The examination of coronary artery was performed at a gestational age <26 weeks in 19 IUGR fetuses from mothers without medical complications and characterised by the presence of reverse flow in DV. Visualisation or non-visualisation of coronary circulation were compared with fetal and neonatal outcome. RESULTS Coronary flow was seen in 7/19 (36.8%) of the IUGR fetuses and these fetuses showed a higher incidence of fetal death (71.4%vs. 16.6%, p = 0.044), delivery or fetal death at an earlier gestational age (23.71 vs. 26.57 weeks, p = 0.011) and a lower birthweight (310 vs. 586 g, p = 0.011). Kaplan-Meier survival analysis demonstrated that visualisation or non-visualisation of coronary flow in such fetuses provides an independent contribution in the prediction of the time interval between Doppler study and delivery or fetal death (chi square = 15.36, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Visualisation of coronary flow in IUGR fetuses with reverse flow in the DV identifies a subgroup of fetuses with a poorer fetal and neonatal outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Rizzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Universita di Roma 'Tor Vergata', Italy.
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Mari G. Doppler ultrasonography in obstetrics: from the diagnosis of fetal anemia to the treatment of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2009; 200:613.e1-9. [PMID: 19200940 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2008.10.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2008] [Revised: 08/11/2008] [Accepted: 10/30/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
After the adoption of the use of umbilical artery and middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity in high-risk pregnancies and in pregnancies that are at risk of having an anemic fetus, the main focus of Doppler ultrasonography in obstetrics today is intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. What is most needed at this time are (1) training of sonographers and sonologists on how to perform a Doppler study, (2) an international classification of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses, and (3) a study of the natural history of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses that might contribute to a better understanding of the intrauterine growth-restriction process and to standard treatment of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. Future investigations, which would include randomized studies, could be designed from the results of such studies.
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Mandruzzato G, Antsaklis A, Botet F, Chervenak FA, Figueras F, Grunebaum A, Puerto B, Skupski D, Stanojevic M. Intrauterine restriction (IUGR). J Perinat Med 2008; 36:277-81. [PMID: 18598115 DOI: 10.1515/jpm.2008.050] [Citation(s) in RCA: 150] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal mortality and morbidity is markedly increased in intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) fetuses. Prenatal identification of IUGR is the first step in clinical management. For that purpose a uniform definition and criteria are required. The etiology of IUGR is multifactorial and whenever possible it should be assessed. When the cause is of placental origin, it is possible to identify the affected fetuses. The major complication is chronic fetal hypoxemia. By monitoring the changes of fetal vital functions it is thus possible to improve both management and outcome. The timing of delivery is crucial but the optimal management scheme has not yet been identified. When IUGR is identified at very early gestational ages, serial assessments of the risk of continuing the in utero fetal life under adverse conditions versus the risks of the prematurity should be performed. Delivery of IUGR fetuses should take place in centers where appropriate neonatal assistance can be provided. Careful monitoring of the IUGR fetus during labor is crucial as the IUGR fetus can quickly decompensate once uterine contractions have started.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giampaolo Mandruzzato
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Istituto per l'Infanzia, Burlo Garofolo, Trieste, Italy.
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Kaur S, Picconi JL, Chadha R, Kruger M, Mari G. Biophysical profile in the treatment of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses who weigh <1000 g. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2008; 199:264.e1-4. [PMID: 18771977 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2008.06.074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/08/2008] [Revised: 05/11/2008] [Accepted: 06/24/2008] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to determine the biophysical profile (BPP) usefulness in the prediction of cord pH, base excess, and guidance regarding the timing of delivery in preterm intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses. STUDY DESIGN A BPP was performed daily in 48 IUGR fetuses and was considered abnormal when it was 2/10 on 1 single occasion or 4/10 on 2 consecutive occasions 2 hours apart. RESULTS The median gestational age and fetal weight for the total population was 27.6 weeks and 632 g, respectively. In 13 fetuses with a BPP of 6, there were 3 deaths, and 7 fetuses were acidemic. In 27 fetuses with a BPP of 8, there were 3 deaths, and 12 fetuses were acidemic. CONCLUSION BPP alone is not a reliable test in the treatment of preterm IUGR fetuses, because of high false-positive and -negative results. The common notion of a good BPP providing reassurance for at least 24 hours is not applicable in severely preterm IUGR fetuses who weigh <1000 g.
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Abstract
One of the most important applications of Doppler ultrasonography in obstetrics is the detection of fetal anemia in pregnancies complicated by either red-cell alloimmunization or by other causes of fetal anemia. Doppler of the umbilical artery also has prognostic value in pregnancies affected by twin-twin transfusion syndrome undergoing in-utero intervention. Another potential major application is the use of Doppler ultrasound in the management of intrauterine-growth-restricted fetuses. At the present time, there is no single test that appears superior to the other available tests for timing the delivery of the growth-restricted fetus. Therefore, the decision to deliver a fetus, especially at <32 weeks, remains mostly based on empirical management. Doppler may provide a more reliable and systematic basis for timing these deliveries. This review emphasizes the three following concepts: (a) normal and abnormal Doppler of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, mitral and tricuspid valves, umbilical vein, and ductus venosus; (b) some clinical applications of Doppler sonography in obstetrics; and (c) potential future research of Doppler in obstetrics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Mari
- Tennessee Maternal Fetal Medicine Institute, Memphis, TN 38103-2807, USA.
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Severi FM, Boni C, Bruni L, Bocchi C, Aguiar RA, Reis FM, Petraglia F. The Increase of Blood Flow in the Fetal Middle Cerebral Artery Correlates With the Onset of Labor at Term. Reprod Sci 2008; 15:584-90. [DOI: 10.1177/1933719107314066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Filiberto M. Severi
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy,
| | - Carlotta Boni
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Luca Bruni
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Caterina Bocchi
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Regina A. Aguiar
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
| | - Fernando M. Reis
- Department of Pediatrics, Obstetrics and Reproductive Medicine, Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Siena, Siena, Italy
| | - Felice Petraglia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, UFMG, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Fetal growth restriction is a complicated perinatal condition, with multiple causes. It shares common pathophysiologies with other important disorders, such as preeclampsia and abruption. As a group, these conditions associated with ischemic placental disease are responsible for a large percentage of indicated preterm births. The ability to accurately predict, diagnose and manage these pregnancies has significant and far-reaching implications, including potential effects on long-term adult health. RECENT FINDINGS Placental ischemia is the most common cause of fetal growth restriction. Alterations in placental development are being linked to various angiogenic mediators, which may be of future use in early risk-determination. Until then, the use of ultrasound to accurately diagnose fetal growth restriction and time delivery is the mainstay of management. Research in this area has revealed some commonalities in the deterioration of the growth restricted fetus, but has also indicated that not every affected fetus will follow the same progression in Doppler and other wellbeing parameters. Most importantly, gestational age at delivery is consistently being documented as a critical factor in perinatal morbidity and mortality. SUMMARY Fetal growth restriction is a late manifestation of early abnormal placental development. Once abnormal Doppler velocimetry is present, surveillance and timing of delivery should be based on the antepartum test results and on the gestational age.
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Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) secondary to placental insufficiency is a major cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality in the United States. Historically, Doppler changes occurring in IUGR fetuses play an important role in the diagnosis and management of these fetuses, and now, based on these changes, we have proposed a staging system for IUGR fetuses that demonstrates prognostic value. This manuscript also summarizes a practical classification for IUGR fetuses. We believe that future studies should differentiate among the different types of IUGR fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Mari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, 3990 John R. Box 163, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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Mari G, Hanif F, Kruger M. Sequence of cardiovascular changes in IUGR in pregnancies with and without preeclampsia. Prenat Diagn 2008; 28:377-83. [DOI: 10.1002/pd.1990] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
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Mari G, Hanif F, Drennan K, Kruger M. Staging of intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses. JOURNAL OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF ULTRASOUND IN MEDICINE 2007; 26:1469-1479. [PMID: 17957041 DOI: 10.7863/jum.2007.26.11.1469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The purpose of this study was to evaluate the value of cardiovascular, ultrasonographic, and clinical parameters for developing a staging classification of intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetuses delivered at 32 weeks or earlier. METHODS Intrauterine growth restriction was defined as the presence of an estimated fetal weight below the 10th percentile. Intrauterine growth-restricted fetuses were staged according to the following parameters, with the presence of any 1 parameter in a stage placing the fetus in that stage: stage I, an abnormal umbilical artery or middle cerebral artery pulsatility index; stage II, an abnormal middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity, umbilical artery absent/reversed diastolic flow, umbilical vein pulsation and an abnormal ductus venosus pulsatility index; and stage III, reversed flow at the ductus venosus or reversed flow at the umbilical vein, an abnormal tricuspid E wave (early ventricular filling)/A wave (late ventricular filling) ratio, and tricuspid regurgitation. Each stage was divided into A (amniotic fluid index [AFI] <5 cm) and B (AFI >5 cm). The presence of maternal abnormalities was also reported. RESULTS Seventy-four IUGR fetuses delivered at 32 weeks or earlier were included. Gestational age at delivery was greater in stage I fetuses compared with the other stages. Birth weight decreased with advancing stages. Stage III fetuses had the lowest AFI. There was a direct correlation between the severity of staging and both perinatal mortality and mortality occurring between 20 weeks' gestation and before the neonates were discharged from the hospital (P < .05). CONCLUSIONS The staging system proposed here may allow comparison of outcome data for IUGR fetuses and may be valuable in determining more timely delivery for these high-risk fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giancarlo Mari
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Wayne State University, Detroit, MI 48201, USA.
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