Doppler sonography of the ductus venosus in high risk pregnancies at 23 and 26 weeks

Ductus venosus blood flow was assessed in 3 high-risk pregnancies, which were terminated at 23 to 26 weeks' gestation because of HELLP-syndrome. The fetuses were extremely growth-retarded and showed diastolic reverse flow in the umbilical artery. In all cases the ductus venosus flow pattern was abnormal and finally showed loss of blood flow during atrial contraction. This finding suggests that the fetal central venous pressure is pathologically increased and may be interpreted as a sign of threatening cardiovascular decompensation.