Doppler - The fetal circulation

Intrauterine growth restriction is associated with abnormalities in the fetal circulation. These abnormalities are currently best understood in the umbilical arterial and venous systems. Changes in intracardiac velocities are more variable as well as more difficult to detect. Doppler ultrasound, particularly of the umbilical circulation, has been useful in the fetus at risk for growth restriction, particularly in serial studies of a fetus identified as requiring increased surveillance. Doppler ultrasound also can add to the general understanding of the physiologic changes that occur in growth-restricted fetuses.