Ductus venosus and prenatal diagnosis

• Type: Another Publication in an International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2003

Authors

matias, a (Author) FMUP; Montenegro N (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Ultrasound Review of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Vol. 3

Pages: 19-25

ISSN: 1472-2240

Publisher: Parthenon Publishing Group

Indexing

Scopus - 2 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-007-AMV

Abstract (EN): The aim of the present study was to review the role of ductus venosus Doppler velocimetry in the screening for chromosomal abnormalities at 11-14 weeks of gestation, based on our own experience. Ductus venosus flow velocity waveforms were obtained immediately before fetal karyotyping in 1573 consecutive singleton pregnancies at 11-14 weeks. We found 1483 normal and 90 abnormal karyotypes. Abnormal flow in the ductus venosus was the only significant difference between both groups. Sensitivity of the test was 86.7% (78/90) and the false-positive rate 1%. Normal karyotype but abnormal flow in the ductus venosus was recorded in 48/1483 cases. Increased nuchal translucency seems to be related, in most cases, to early cardiac dysfunction. Chromosomal abnormalities and/or cardiac defects were more prevalent among those fetuses with increased nuchal translucency and abnormal flow in the ductus venosus. We suggest that the evaluation of ductal flow between 11 and 14 weeks of gestation should be adopted as a second-level screening test to increase specificity and to minimize invasive testing derived from the exclusive measurement of nuchal translucency. It could also be used as a preselection criterion for those fetuses who should be screened for cardiac defects.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific