Umbilical artery Doppler
Ultrasound technique measuring blood flow in umbilical arteries to assess fetal well-being and placental function.
Full Definition
Umbilical artery Doppler is a specialized ultrasound examination that measures blood flow velocity patterns in the umbilical arteries to assess placental vascular resistance and fetal well-being. The technique evaluates the systolic-to-diastolic ratio, pulsatility index, and resistance index, with abnormal values indicating placental insufficiency or fetal compromise. Absent or reversed end-diastolic flow represents severe placental dysfunction requiring immediate evaluation and potential delivery. This non-invasive test is particularly valuable in monitoring high-risk pregnancies, growth-restricted fetuses, and pregnancies complicated by hypertensive disorders.
Usage
Usage note: Capitalize 'Doppler' as it derives from the physicist's name. Can be abbreviated as 'umbilical Doppler' in context.
In Context
- "Umbilical artery Doppler demonstrated absent end-diastolic flow, indicating severe placental insufficiency." — Maternal-fetal medicine report
- "Weekly umbilical artery Doppler surveillance was initiated due to suspected intrauterine growth restriction." — Management plan