Morphometric Characterization Of Umbilical Cord Vessels And Neonatal Outcome

ABSTRACT

Morphologic and morphometric characterization of the umbilical cord and vessel components could greatlyassist in improving adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. The aim of this study was to evaluate therelationship between morphometry of umbilical cord vessel components and neonatal outcome. A descriptivecross sectional study was conducted on 207 umbilical cords attached to placentae obtained from VictoryMaternity Home and Clinic in Kumasi (Ghana) between November, 2013 and October, 2014. Umbilical cordlength, diameter, and vessels’ diameter were measured with the umbilical cord still attached to the placenta.Neonatal anthropometries were recorded within 24 hours after delivery. The mean ± SD of vein diameter betweenneonates of normotensive 3.36 (±0.88) and hypertensive mothers 3.82 (± 0.50) showed a significant difference.The body length of neonates with short umbilical cord length was significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that of thosewith long cord lengths. Quantitative analysis indicated a positive linear relationship in umbilical cord and itsvessels components with neonatal anthropometry (p<0.05). In conclusion, the morphometry of the umbilicalcord and its vessels could predict maternal and neonatal outcome and therefore would be useful in earlydetection and management of neonatal abnormalities.