Role of Colour Doppler Studies in Antenatal Surveillance in Pregnancies with Fetal Growth Restriction in a Rural Tertiary Health Centre: A Prospective Study

Background: Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is often diagnosed late in developing countries like India, especially in rural areas. It leads to perinatal morbidity and mortality and is an additional burden to the already limited resources. Doppler ultrasonography can help to predict a timely delivery and prevent additional morbidity due to prematurity. However, correct interpretation of Doppler is essential for the management of the foetus. This study was conducted to evaluate the role of Doppler in the management of fetal growth restriction and to study the changes in uteroplacental, fetoplacental, fetal circulation and changes in ductusvenous and their effect on the outcome of the baby.Material andMethods: A prospective study was done on 200 patients of clinically suspected FGR. The cases were followed till delivery; the Doppler and grey scale findings were analysed and correlated with the perinatal outcome.Results:In our study 118 fetuses with FGR had at least one adverse perinatal outcome. There were114 neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission and average birth weight was 1.94kg. The umbilical artery had maximum sensitivity of 81.48% and the Cerebro-placental ratio had the highest specificity 44.07%.Conclusions: The Doppler study of various vessels help in antepartum surveillance of fetal growth restriction and also helps in determining the optimum timing of delivery and the perinatal outcome.