Fetal umbilical arterial and venous Doppler measurements in gestational diabetic and nondiabetic pregnancies near term

Abstract

Objective. To compare Doppler measurements of umbilical arteries (UAs) and veins (UV) in diabetic and nondiabetic pregnancies near term.

Methods. Consecutive patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) were prospectively recruited from a regional obstetric service over an 18-month period. Doppler assessment of the UA and UV done within 10 days from delivery were used for analysis. Similar measurements were performed in a control group of nondiabetic nonhypertensive patients near term.

Results. All of the Doppler waveform patterns were within normal in the cohort of 140 patients (GDM 84, normal 62). The mean PI values for the UA and the mean total umbilical venous flow (TUVF) and TUVF per unit birth weight did not differ significantly between diabetic and nondiabetic pregnancies. Large-for-gestational-age fetuses showed higher TUVF than normal size fetuses, but the TUVF per unit birth weight was higher for small-gestational-age fetuses. These differences were independent of their diabetic status.

Conclusion. Umbilical arterial and venous Doppler measurements near term were unable to distinguish between diabetic and nondiabetic pregnancies. Umbilical venous flow volume was apparently more sensitive to the size of the fetus than to the maternal diabetic state.

Keywords:

• Arterial and venous Doppler
• gestational diabetic pregnancies

Declaration of interest: The authors report no conflicts of interest. The authors alone are responsible for the content and writing of the paper.