Altered jugular vein and ductus venosus flow velocities in fetuses with increased nuchal translucency and distended jugular lymphatic sacs

Author(s):
Mooij, Y.M. de; Bartelings, M.M.; Twisk, J.W.R.; Lamberts, R.R.; Gittenberger-de Groot, A.C.; Vugt, J.M.G. van; Bekker, M.N.
Published
2010
Publication type
Article / Letter to editor

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: We sought to assess blood flow in relation to jugular lymphatic distension in fetuses with increased and normal nuchal translucency (NT).

STUDY DESIGN: In all, 72 fetuses with normal NT and 71 fetuses with NT >95th percentile were evaluated. NT size, jugular lymphatic sacs (JLS), jugular vein and ductus venosus pulsatility index for veins (PIV), and intracardiac velocities were measured.

RESULTS: JLS were visualized in 22/72 fetuses with normal and in 55/71 fetuses with increased NT. Jugular vein and ductus venosus PIV was higher in fetuses with increased NT compared to normal NT (P < .01). Visibility of JLS was associated with a higher ductus venous PIV (P < .05), but not with a higher jugular vein PIV. Larger NT and larger JLS volumes were associated with higher jugular vein and ductus venosus PIV (P < .05).

CONCLUSION: This study shows a relation among increased NT, jugular lymphatic distension, and altered blood flow in jugular vein and ductus venosus.

blood flow ductus venosus first trimester jugular vein nuchal translucency lateral neck cysts blood-flow tricuspid regurgitation 1st-trimester fetuses clinical-significance chromosomal defects cardiac defects weeks gestation 13+6-week scan 1st trimester
Date issued
2010-06-30
Language
English
Is part of
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology (2010), No. 6
hdl
1887/110608