Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry can be used to monitor which condition?

Umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry is a valuable tool for assessing blood flow and vascular resistance in the placenta, particularly in cases where fetal growth is a concern. This technique measures the velocity of blood flow in the umbilical artery and helps in evaluating placental function. Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where the fetus is not growing adequately in the uterus, often due to placental insufficiency.

When there is a suspicion of IUGR, Doppler studies can reveal altered blood flow patterns. For instance, a higher resistance in the umbilical artery can indicate that the placenta is not supplying enough blood and nutrients to the fetus, which is critical in assessing the well-being of the child and planning further management. Monitoring the umbilical artery Doppler velocities allows healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding delivery timing and prenatal interventions to optimize fetal outcomes.

The other conditions listed do not have the same direct relationship with umbilical artery flow as IUGR. Maternal hypertension may indirectly affect fetal growth but does not specifically indicate a direct need for Doppler assessment. Fetal anemia might present with different clinical findings and typically requires other monitoring techniques. Gestational age is assessed through different means,