Name of the Procedure:

Doppler Velocimetry, Fetal; Umbilical Artery

Summary

A Doppler velocimetry of the fetal umbilical artery is a non-invasive ultrasound technique used during pregnancy to measure the blood flow in the umbilical artery, which can provide important information about the baby's health and wellbeing.

Purpose

This procedure is used to assess the blood flow between the mother and fetus through the umbilical artery. It helps in identifying and managing potential complications like fetal growth restriction (FGR), pre-eclampsia, and other placental insufficiency-related conditions. The main goal is to ensure that the fetus is receiving an adequate supply of oxygen and nutrients.

Indications

• Suspicion of fetal growth restriction (FGR)
• Abnormal maternal serum screening results
• Pre-eclampsia or other hypertensive disorders of pregnancy
• Diabetes in pregnancy
• Decreased fetal movements
• Multiple gestations with suspected complications
• History of previous pregnancy complications

Preparation

• No special preparation is usually required.
• The patient might be asked to have a full bladder to better visualize the fetus during ultrasound.
• Discuss any medications with the healthcare provider to see if adjustments are necessary.

Procedure Description

1. The patient lies down or semi-reclines on an examination table.
2. Gel is applied to the abdomen to help the ultrasound transducer make secure contact.
3. An ultrasound transducer is moved over the abdomen to locate the umbilical cord and measure the blood flow within the umbilical artery using Doppler ultrasound.
4. The blood flow velocity waveforms are recorded and analyzed by the healthcare provider.
   • The procedure typically does not require anesthesia or sedation.

Duration

The entire process usually takes about 15 to 30 minutes.

Setting

This procedure is generally performed in an outpatient clinic, prenatal care center, or hospital setting.

Personnel

• Obstetrician or Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist
• Sonographer or Ultrasound Technician

Risks and Complications

• Generally considered safe with no known risks to the mother or fetus when used appropriately.
• Rarely, prolonged ultrasound exposure may cause slight heating of tissues, but this is minimal and controlled.

Benefits

• Provides essential information about the baby's health and development.
• Helps in early detection and management of potential complications.
• Non-invasive and painless.

Recovery

• No recovery time is needed post-procedure.
• Patients can resume normal activities immediately.
• Follow-up appointments may be scheduled based on findings.

Alternatives

• Biophysical profile (BPP)
• Non-stress test (NST)
• Growth ultrasound

Pros and cons of alternatives:

• Other tests can provide different but complementary information about fetal health.
• Doppler velocimetry is unique in its ability to assess blood flow specifically.

Patient Experience

• The procedure is typically painless and involves minimal discomfort due to the application of the gel and the movement of the transducer.
• Patients may feel slight pressure on the abdomen as the transducer is moved around.