uterine artery notching
Doppler ultrasound finding indicating increased vascular resistance in uterine arteries, associated with placental insufficiency risk.
Full Definition
Uterine artery notching refers to a characteristic Doppler ultrasound waveform pattern showing a prominent diastolic notch in the uterine artery flow velocity. This finding indicates increased vascular resistance and incomplete physiological transformation of the spiral arteries during placentation. Bilateral uterine artery notching, particularly when persistent beyond 20-24 weeks gestation, is associated with increased risk of preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and placental abruption. The presence of notching is used in first and second trimester screening algorithms to identify pregnancies at high risk for placental-mediated complications.
Usage
Usage note: Specify whether unilateral or bilateral. Significance varies with gestational age at detection.
In Context
- "Bilateral uterine artery notching at 22 weeks gestation indicated high risk for preeclampsia development." — Doppler ultrasound report
- "Persistent uterine artery notching prompted increased surveillance for fetal growth restriction." — Surveillance plan