Longitudinal Assessment of Ductus Venosus Doppler Parameters and Their Association With Perinatal Outcomes in Pregnancies With Intrauterine Growth Restriction

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a major obstetric complication associated with increased risks of perinatal morbidity and mortality. Accurate assessment of fetal well-being and timely prediction of adverse outcomes are critical in the management of these pregnancies. The ductus venosus, a key component of the fetal circulation, reflects central venous pressure and cardiac function. Alterations in ductus venosus Doppler waveforms have been suggested as early markers of fetal compromise.

This prospective observational cohort study is designed to longitudinally evaluate ductus venosus Doppler parameters in pregnancies diagnosed with IUGR and to explore their association with perinatal outcomes. Pregnant women meeting the inclusion criteria will undergo serial Doppler examinations of the ductus venosus during the third trimester, performed at defined intervals until delivery.

Perinatal outcomes to be assessed include Apgar scores, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, duration of hospitalization, and perinatal mortality. By correlating longitudinal ductus venosus Doppler changes with clinical outcomes, the study aims to determine whether these parameters may serve as reliable predictors of neonatal risk in IUGR pregnancies. Ultimately, this research may provide additional evidence to support the use of ductus venosus Doppler in clinical decision-making and in the timing of delivery for growth-restricted fetuses.