A Case-Control Power Doppler Comparative Study in the Prediction of Pre-Eclampsia in First Trimester Pregnancies

Abstract Background: Sonographic examination using power Dop-pler entity of both umbilical and uterine arteries can detect pregnancies impaired both foetal and maternal sides of the placenta respectively. So it is still the first easible and world-wide available facility for pregnant women. Aim of Study: To determine the role of fetal and maternal Doppler in predicting pre-eclampsia in the 1st trimester by comparing the normotensive and hypertensive pregnant women. Patient and Methods: The particpants in this prospective study were 160 females, 80 of whom were hypertensive and 80 of whom had normal blood pressure measurements (control). The gestational age of the babies ranged from 12 to 24 weeks. Results: With p-values of (0.001, 0.0001, and 0.0472), Doppler assessment revealed the RI of the right uterine, left uterine, and umbilical arteries were significantly differed between cases and controls, respectively. A significant positive correlation among case group (p-value=0.001) was noted between right and left uterine arteries RI as well as both uterine and umbilical arteries RI. Furthermore, it was discov-ered that 6% of the study patients have a bilateral persistent diastolic notch and 4% have unilateral persistent diastolic notch. There was also a link between having a diastolic notch and having a high RI value. Conclusion: We can conclude that the Doppler study of both uterine and umbilical arteries in 1st trimester is a simple rapid non-invasive tool. It can be used as a reliable indicator and screening test for patients at high risk to develop pre-eclampsia complicated during or after their pregnancies, and to provide earlier treatment as well a better prognosis for their outcome.