Systematic dopplerflow measurements of the arteria umbilicalis

The analysis of the doppler flow profiles of the arteria umbilicalis enables us togather information on the vascular resistance of the fetoplacental circulation. Many studies have shown the benefit of this non invasive technique especially in the surveillance of risk bearing pregnancies [IUGR, diabetes, hypertension]. Systematic dopplerflow measurements were performed in 172 patient during 10 months following routine ultrasound. No distinction was made between normal and complicated pregnancies. In cases of known complications repeated measurements were performed. Patients were brought back for repeated examination in cases of unexplained abnormal flow profiles and in cases of excessive fetal movements. In analysing 230 results the authors have tried to establish if every pregnant woman ought to have a dopplerflow measurement around week 20 of her pregnancy, and in what selected indications this examination ought to be repeated