ductus venosus
Pronunciation: DUCK-tus ve-NO-sus
Fetal blood vessel that shunts oxygenated blood from the umbilical vein directly to the heart, bypassing the liver.
Full Definition
The ductus venosus is a crucial fetal circulatory structure that allows oxygenated blood from the placenta to bypass the fetal liver and flow directly to the right atrium of the heart. Doppler assessment of ductus venosus flow is an important component of fetal cardiovascular evaluation, particularly in cases of suspected heart defects or chromosomal abnormalities. Abnormal flow patterns in the ductus venosus can indicate fetal cardiac compromise or chromosomal conditions like trisomy 21. This vessel normally closes after birth as the fetal circulation transitions to postnatal patterns.
Usage
Usage note: Often abbreviated as DV in Doppler studies. Latin term should not be italicized in medical contexts.
In Context
- "Ductus venosus Doppler showed abnormal flow patterns suggesting fetal cardiac dysfunction." — Ultrasound report
- "The DV pulsatility index was elevated, prompting further cardiovascular assessment." — Fetal echocardiography report