Cookies on this website

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you click 'Accept all cookies' we'll assume that you are happy to receive all cookies and you won't see this message again. If you click 'Reject all non-essential cookies' only necessary cookies providing core functionality such as security, network management, and accessibility will be enabled. Click 'Find out more' for information on how to change your cookie settings.

OBJECTIVES: When three ultrasonographic characteristics-umbilical artery Doppler recording, growth (abdominal circumference), and biophysical profile score-are used in combination in assessment of fetuses at risk of chronic asphyxia; (1) What are the order and time scale for the development of abnormality with each characteristic? (2) What is the short-term outcome associated with abnormalities of the three characteristics? (3) Should we amend our fetal assessment protocol? STUDY DESIGN: An audit of 103 fetuses (100 mothers) referred to a tertiary center for fetal assessment because of suspected chronic fetal asphyxia was performed with three ultrasonographic characteristics, umbilical artery Doppler recording, measurement of abdominal circumference, and documenting the biophysical profile score. RESULTS: The order of deterioration (which had a very variable time scale) was umbilical artery Doppler recording, followed by abdominal circumference and finally biophysical profile score. Normal characteristics or an abnormal umbilical artery Doppler recording alone or an abnormal abdominal circumference alone was associated with an excellent prognosis. The worst outcome was found in the 28 fetuses with abnormality of all three ultrasonographic features before delivery. CONCLUSIONS: The main suggested implications for management are avoidance of preterm delivery with normal ultrasonographic characteristics, an abnormal umbilical artery Doppler recording alone, or an abnormal abdominal circumference alone; delivery of fetuses at ≥34 weeks with abnormal umbilical artery Doppler recording and abdominal circumference before the biophysical profile score becomes abnormal; and implementation of specific measures to prevent necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns when all three characteristics are abnormal. © 1992.

Original publication

DOI

10.1016/0002-9378(92)91624-J

Type

Journal article

Journal

American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology

Publication Date

01/01/1992

Volume

166

Pages

1486 - 1495