Genel Tıp Dergisi (Oct 2023)
The Relationship Between Placenta and Umbilical Cord Characteristics and Fetal Distress
Abstract
Aim: In our study, we investigated the relationship between placental thickness and weight, umbilical cord diameter and length, and placental cord insertion site with fetal distress, and its effects on the baby's APGAR score and cord blood gas. Materials and methods: In our study, the data of the patients who gave birth in our hospital, whose gestational patient was between 37+0- 41+6 weeks, and between the ages of 18-45 were recorded prospectively. 385 patients (196 patients fetal distress and 189 patients elective cesarean section) were included in the study. Demographic characteristics, placental thickness and weight, umbilical cord diameter and length, insertion site of the umbilical cord into the placenta, newborn gender, first- and fifth-minute. Apgar score, and umbilical cord blood gas values were recorded. All parameters were compared between both groups. Results: When both groups are compared, Maternal age (29.13 ± 5.20 vs. 25.67 ± 5.27, p<.001) and body mass index (30.10 ± 4.20 vs. 27.15 ± 3.97, p<.001) were found to be statistically lower in Group I than Group II. Placental weight (515 [IQR, 430 – 582.5] vs. 610 [IQR, 520 – 710], p<.001) and thickness (2.42 ± 0.91 vs. 2.72 ± 0.91, p<.001) were found to be statistically lower in Group I than Group II. In Group I patients, umbilical cord length (24.02 ± 10.02 vs. 57.35 ± 13.95, p=.008) was found to be significantly shorter than Group II. Conclusion: Young maternal age, low body mass index, short umbilical cord, low placental weight and thin placenta were found to be positively correlated with fetal distress. More careful follow-up of pregnant women with these features in terms of fetal distress is important for better perinatal and neonatal outcomes.
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