Colour Doppler Study of Middle Cerebral Artery in Cases of Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension with Suspected Fetal Growth Restriction and Correlation with Mode of Delivery and Fetal Outcome

Abstract

Background: Effective management of fetal growth restriction (FGR) involves accurate diagnosis and monitoring, with Doppler ultrasound being a key diagnostic tool. This study aimed to assess the significance of Doppler ultrasound findings of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) in patients with pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) and suspected intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).
Material and Methods: The study was conducted on 123 pregnant women with PIH and FGR between 28–40 weeks of gestation. Detailed clinical profiles and Doppler indices, including pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and systolic-to-diastolic (S/D) ratio, were assessed and correlated with perinatal outcomes.
Results: Significant correlations were observed between Doppler parameters and adverse outcomes, including low birth weight, poor Apgar scores, and increased NICU admissions. A higher S/D ratio was strongly associated with the need for pregnancy termination.
Conclusion: MCA Doppler assessment is a valuable non-invasive predictor of fetal compromise in PIH and FGR, enabling timely clinical intervention and improved perinatal outcomes.