Doppler Sonography in Obstetrics

Abstract

ABSTRACT Doppler sonographic applications in pregnancy are the widely accepted functional methods of evaluating fetal wellbeing. Flow velocity waveforms provide important information from the early stages of pregnancy to term. Doppler ultrasound is a noninvasive technique whereby the movement of blood is studied by detecting the change in frequency of reflected sound. This method became an important tool for qualifying pregnancies in risk. Information obtained with Doppler sonography helps obstetricians managing patients in situations like pregnancies complicated by intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), rhesus alloimmunization, multiple pregnancies and anamnestic risk factors. Examination of the uteroplacental and fetomaternal circulation by Doppler sonography in the early second trimester helps predicting pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, IUGR and perinatal death. This chapter aims to discuss Doppler sonographic examinations in modern obstetrics. To date, randomized controlled trials were able to establish important clinical value of Doppler velocimetry in obstetrics to improve perinatal outcome in highrisk situations. How to cite this article Ertan AK, Taniverdi HA. Doppler Sonography in Obstetrics. Donald School J Ultrasound Obstet Gynecol 2013;7(2):128-148.