Evaluation of the Caval aortic index in fetal growth restriction: A case–control study in a tertiary center

Abstract

ObjectiveTo examine the inferior vena cava (IVC) diameter, aortic diameter, and caval aortic index in fetuses with growth restriction and to compare the findings with fetuses from uncomplicated pregnancies at similar gestational weeks.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted with a total of 176 pregnant women. According to the diagnostic criteria, 84 pregnancies diagnosed with fetal growth restriction (FGR) were compared with a control group of 92 uncomplicated pregnancies at similar gestational weeks.ResultsThe aortic and IVC diameter values were significantly lower in the FGR group (P < 0.001), whereas the caval aortic index was similar between the two groups. The examination of the ultrasound parameters of the cases with FGR according to the neonatal intensive care requirement revealed similar aortic diameter and caval aortic index values but a significantly smaller IVC diameter in the cases requiring neonatal intensive care (P = 0.022).ConclusionWe determined that the aortic and IVC diameter values were smaller in the fetuses with growth restriction, but the caval aortic index was similar in the two groups. The measurement of the IVC diameter in FGR may be useful in predicting the neonatal intensive care requirements of these fetuses.

Processing Ultrasound Scans of the Inferior Vena Cava: Techniques and Applications

“…In severe cases, FGR can lead to stillbirth or neonatal death [ 65 ]. FGR is a common problem, affecting 10–15% of pregnant women [ 66 ]. The most-common technique for identifying FGR is Doppler US.…”

“…The most-common technique for identifying FGR is Doppler US. However, its poor ability to distinguish between pathological and constitutional conditions has led clinicians to identify new techniques and parameters [ 66 , 67 ]. One study involving 176 pregnant women found that, with an increase in the severity of FGR, the diameter of the IVC and aorta decreased [ 66 ].…”

“…However, its poor ability to distinguish between pathological and constitutional conditions has led clinicians to identify new techniques and parameters [ 66 , 67 ]. One study involving 176 pregnant women found that, with an increase in the severity of FGR, the diameter of the IVC and aorta decreased [ 66 ]. This indicates an interesting application of US scans, which can determine the sizes of those vessels.…”