Prediction of Preeclampsia Using Uterine Artery Spectral Doppler

Abstract

Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) remains important causes of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity. Pre-eclampsia complicates between 2 and 8% of all pregnancies and is the second most common cause of maternal death in the developing world The aim of this research was to predict Preeclampsia using uterine artery spectral Doppler. The study was conducted in the Sudan (North Kordofan State) from July to November 2018.51 patients attending the antenatal clinic who were referred to the Ultrasound department for a routine dating scan (between 11-14wks) were recruited to participate in this study. Uterine artery spectral Doppler assessment was performed via transabdominal route in the second and third trimester. The result of this study showed that the Mean right uterine artery resistive index (RI) in second and third trimester were (0.51 and 0.68) respectively in preeclampsia which were significantly different from normal pregnancy. Furthermore, the mean right uterine artery pulsatility index (PI) in third trimester was (1.62) which was significantly different from normal pregnancy. There was no significant difference observed in left uterine artery (PI and RI) in both second and third trimester. Abnormal uterine artery waveforms are a better predictor of pre-eclampsia than of intrauterine growth restriction. A pulsatility index, resistive index or combined with notching, were the most predictive Doppler index. These indices should be used in clinical practice. Future research should also concentrate on combining uterine artery Doppler ultrasonography with other tests.