Multigate spectral Doppler velocimetry for fast assessment of intraplacental fetal circulation: A preliminary study

The aim of this preliminary study was to investigate the assessment of the intraplacental fetal circulation with a new multigate Doppler system. Doppler velocimetry of the umbilical artery is widely used for assessment of fetal well-being, but its sensitivity is too low for prediction and early detection of pathologic placental processes. Intraplacental velocimetry is more accurate and detects pathologic conditions of the placenta earlier. Color Doppler imaging of intraplacental circulations is a difficult process, and the multigate system was developed to enhance the assessment of intraplacental circulation. This study shows that the multigate system is accurate and is a successful means of fast evaluation of the intraplacental circulation.