Significance of velocimetry as a monitor of fetal assessment and management.

Using pulsed Doppler ultrasound velocimetry, we set out to examine (a) the significance of velocimetry as a monitor of fetal management (including fetal therapy), and (b) the correlation between the occurrence of abnormal blood flow values and perinatal morbidity. We compared the incidence of abnormal values between a control group of normal pregnant women (59 cases) and an 'abnormal pregnancy' group (60 cases), composed of patients exhibiting maternal complications, IUGR, and fetal distress. The incidence of abnormal values was 23.7% in the control group and 71.7% in the abnormal group. Our results indicate clearly that velocimetry of the middle cerebral artery is the most reliable way to diagnose fetal distress. Also, when high or multiple abnormal values are detected by velocimetry, the incidence and degree of perinatal morbidity increases.