Abstract
Background
Despite relative abundant data on SUA, information on UAT is limited. Both conditions, though pathologically different, can result in similar clinical outcomes. Herein, we evaluated the risk factors and their effects on pregnancy outcomes for single umbilical artery (SUA) and umbilical artery thrombosis (UAT), and assess the consistency of these factors with adverse outcomes to explore the applicability of SUA prevention and management strategies to UAT.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study investigated pregnancies diagnosed with SUA and UAT between 2017 and 2021 at a tertiary hospital. Data on medical history, birth details, and diagnoses were collected from medical records. The potential causes of SUA and UAT were explored through comparative analyses with control groups and further regression analysis. Logistic regression models evaluated the adverse pregnancy outcomes potentially caused by SUA and UAT, with a comparative analysis of the adverse outcomes associated with both conditions.
Results
Prior cesarean section and in vitro fertilization were identified as independent risk factors for SUA, while nulliparity, prior cesarean section, and IVF were identified for UAT. SUA was associated with low birth weight, preterm labor, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS), congenital heart defects (CHD) and urinary system malformations (USM). UAT was linked to LBW, fetal growth restriction, preterm labor, fetal distress, NRDS, and CHD. Compared to SUA, fetuses with UAT had significantly lower birth weights and greater incidences of LBW, FGR, preterm labor, and fetal distress.
Conclusions
The UAT encompasses the risk factors and adverse pregnancy outcomes associated with SUA, suggesting that similar prenatal and postnatal care strategies may be applicable. However, due to the heightened risk profile and severity of outcomes in UAT, future research should focus on developing more specialized care protocols to address these challenges.