Correlation between fetoplacental Doppler indices and measurements of cardiac function in term fetuses

OBJECTIVE Redistribution of cardiac output (CO) is responsible for the brain-sparing effect seen during periods of fetal stress. Our aim was to investigate prospectively the correlation between fetoplacental Doppler indices and measurements of cardiac function in uncomplicated term singleton pregnancy. METHODS This was a prospective observational study of normotensive women with appropriately grown, non-anomalous singleton pregnancy. Participants underwent fortnightly ultrasound examinations from 36 weeks' gestation until delivery, and intrapartum and neonatal outcomes were recorded. The correlation between fetoplacental Doppler indices and various measurements of cardiac function was evaluated. RESULTS The study cohort comprised 273 singleton pregnancies. The cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) was correlated positively with left ventricular CO (LVCO) (P