DOPPLER ULTRASOUND, AS VITAL AID TO PREDICT FETAL OUTCOME IN HIGHRISK PREGNANCIES

Abstract

Introduction:Pulsed Doppler ultrasound allows a clearer understanding of hemodynamic changes and has thus become one of the most effective clinical methods in highrisk pregnancies for fetomaternal surveillance.Fetuses with abnormal flow velocity waveform exhibit a high rate of perinatal asphyxia and death compared to those with normal flow properties.Doppler velocimetrydetermines not only the frequency of antenatal testing and the optimum delivery time, but also the mode of delivery. Objective: To evaluate fetal outcome in High Risk Pregnancies with Doppler changes. Material and methods: Fetal outcome of 100 high risk pregnancies with doppler changes showing abnormality were analysed over a period of 4 months from May 2020 to August 2020. Ultrasound was done followed by Doppler evaluation. Uterine, umbilical and middle cerebral artery flow velocity waveforms (FVW) were analyzed and the resistance index (RI), pulsatility index (PI) and the systolic/diastolic (S/D) ratios were measured. Fetal outcome was determined by APGAR score after 5minute. Results:Out of 100 cases, 43 patients underwent vaginal delivery, out of which 25 full term and 18 were preterm deliveries. 57 patients underwent caesarean section out of which 33 were full term and 24 were preterm. Out of 88 live births,22 babies had APGAR <6 at 5 minutes and 34 babies required NICU admission because of fetal distress, low birth weight, low APGAR, respiratory distress syndrome and IUGR. Conclusion: Doppler can be used as promising adjunct in management of high risk pregnancies. It helps in guiding early intervention and improving fetal outcome.