Effect of Fetal Movements and Fetal Breathing on Fetal Middle Cerebral Artery Pulsatility Index Measurement ()
ABSTRACT
Objective: This study aimed to determine the effect of fetal
movements on the MCA pulsatility index (PI) and quantify the fall of MCA PI
after initiation of fetal movements and/or breathing, and the time taken to
recover from a fall below the 5th percentile. Methods: 16
women with appropriate for gestational age (AGA) fetuses and 16 women with
small for gestational age (SGA) fetuses were recruited. MCA PI during “no
movement” state was compared with MCA PI values during fetal body movements and
breathing movements. Results: MCA PI measurements with body or breathing
movements were significantly (p < 0.005) lower as compared to that observed without
movements. MCA PI started rising immediately after cessation of body movements
and/or breathing movements. Conclusions: MCA PI with fetal body or
breathing movements is significantly lower as compared to that observed in the
quiet state. If MCA PI measurement is below 5th centile, it should
be measured again up to 90 seconds after cessation of fetal body and/or
breathing movements in order to minimize false positive diagnosis of cerebral
sparing effect in SGA as well as AGA fetuses.
Share and Cite:
Badade, A. , Khatal, K. and Bhide, A. (2018) Effect of Fetal Movements and Fetal Breathing on Fetal Middle Cerebral Artery Pulsatility Index Measurement.
Open Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology,
8, 354-361. doi:
10.4236/ojog.2018.84039.