Prediction of obstetric outcomes in sickle cell patients based on tricuspid regurgitant velocity

Abstract

Transthoracic echocardiography, a validated tool for risk assessment in non-pregnant population with sickle cell disease (SCD), uses tricuspid regurgitant velocity (TRV) over 2.5 m/s is an independent mortality risk factor. Its applicability in obstetrics lacks sufficient evidence. In this multicenter retrospective cohort study across five tertiary centers, we aimed to validate TRV as a determinant of increased maternal and fetal risk. Data was collected on 93 women and included 21 patients with TRV of at least 2.5 m/s. The maternal primary composite outcome included occurrence of vaso-occlusive crisis, acute chest syndrome, gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, and mortality. The fetal primary composite outcome comprised perinatal mortality, premature delivery, reduced birth weight, and fetal distress. Adverse maternal and fetal events arose in both groups with no statistical difference. This study cannot support TRV of 2.5 m/s or more as an independent predictor of adverse obstetric outcomes among women with SCD.