Using Doppler ultrasound to manage the small-for-gestational-age fetus

Doppler ultrasound is used to risk assess and monitor high-risk pregnancies to time delivery. Uterine artery (UtA) Doppler is a screening tool for placental dysfunction, as abnormal values represent an increased risk of hypertensive disorders and fetal growth restriction. Routine fetal growth assessment includes measuring the umbilical artery Doppler (UmA), as this reflects placental blood flow and can indicate placental dysfunction. In pregnancies with abnormal UmA Dopplers, assessment of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and ductus venosus (DV) enables timely delivery by detecting developing hypoxia.
Source: Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine - Category: OBGYN Authors: Tags: Case-based learning Source Type: research