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01-05-2011 | Materno-fetal Medicine

Evaluation of ductus venosus and inferior vena cava by using multiple Doppler ultrasound parameters in healthy fetuses

Authors: Francisco M. P. Gallarreta, Wellington P. Martins, Carolina O. Nastri, Francisco Mauad Filho, Luis Guilherme C. Nicolau, Daniela A. Barra, Edson N. Morais, Gerson C. Crott

Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics | Issue 5/2011

Abstract

Purpose

The objective of this study was to describe multiple Doppler ultrasound parameters of ductus venosus and inferior vena cava in fetuses at gestational ages ranging from 22 to 38 weeks.

Study design

In this prospective observational study, Doppler ultrasound exams were performed in 45 healthy fetuses at 22, 26, 34, and 38 weeks. Maximum venous velocity, minimum venous velocity, venous pulsatility index, and venous acceleration time (VAT) (defined as the time between minimum and maximum venous velocity) were evaluated at those gestational periods.

Results

Increase in the velocities and decrease in the pulsatility index were observed in these vessels throughout gestational age. The VAT increased with gestational age.

Conclusions

The VAT, a Doppler parameter still not described elsewhere, increased during pregnancy could be related to a longer period of time needed to fill the atrium in bigger hearts. In this study, we provide reference values for VAT in healthy fetuses.

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Title: Evaluation of ductus venosus and inferior vena cava by using multiple Doppler ultrasound parameters in healthy fetuses
Authors: Francisco M. P. Gallarreta
Wellington P. Martins
Carolina O. Nastri
Francisco Mauad Filho
Luis Guilherme C. Nicolau
Daniela A. Barra
Edson N. Morais
Gerson C. Crott
Publication date: 01-05-2011
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Archives of Gynecology and Obstetrics / Issue 5/2011
Print ISSN: 0932-0067
Electronic ISSN: 1432-0711
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00404-010-1492-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Evaluation of ductus venosus and inferior vena cava by using multiple Doppler ultrasound parameters in healthy fetuses

Abstract

Purpose

Study design

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Purpose

Study design

Results

Conclusions

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