Comparison of foetal growth in singleton and twin pregnancies by B-mode and Doppler ultrasonography in Karya ewes

Authors: GÜNEŞ ERDOĞAN, HAYRETTİN ÇETİN, AHMET CEYLAN, İLKER SERİN, HAKKI BÜLENT BECERİKLİSOY

Abstract: Foetal growth and haemodynamic features were investigated in singleton and twin pregnancies in Karya ewes with B-mode/Doppler ultrasonography. Nineteen healthy singleton (n = 9) and twin (n = 10) pregnant Karya ewes were used. Foetal biometric and haemodynamic measurements were made at 15-day intervals on the 29 foetuses during pregnancy. Biparietal head diameter (BPD), thoracic diameter (TD), umbilical cord diameter (UCD), foetal heart rate (FHR), peak systolic velocity (PSV), end diastolic velocity (EDV), pulsatility index (PI), and resistance index (RI) were recorded. The BPD was higher in twins on days 55 and 130 of pregnancy (P < 0.05), and the TD was higher in singletons on day 115 of pregnancy (P < 0.01). UCD was higher in twins on day 55 of pregnancy (P < 0.01). On day 130 of pregnancy, PSV and EDV were higher in twin foetuses (P < 0.05). PI and RI were lower in twins on day 40 of pregnancy (P < 0.05). Foetal growth and umbilical artery blood flow show some differences depending on the numbers of foetuses and the gestational stage. Additionally, BPD, TD, and FHR were reliable for estimation of gestational age during twin pregnancies.

Keywords: Foetal growth, umbilical artery, Doppler ultrasonography, twin pregnancy, Karya ewe

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