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Can the ophthalmic artery assessment be integrated into our practice?

Research output: Contribution to journalMeeting Abstractpeer-review

Abstract

Objectives:
The ophthalmic artery (OA) is easily accessible for Doppler evaluation. Recent studies highlight its affordability and reliability as a predictive biomarker for PE. While accurate assessment requires specialised expertise, its cost-effectiveness makes it a practical option. The main objective was to evaluate the correlation between OA PSV ratio and maternal parameters (MAP, BMI, 1st trimester PAPP-A, a.uterinae PI). The secondary aim was to evaluate the length of the learning curve.

Methods:
We carried out a prospective pilot study involving pregnant women with singleton pregnancies who were referred for the third trimester ultrasound at Riga Maternity Hospital. A single ultrasound specialist (NV) conducted the assessments, measuring OA flow velocites in 81 pregnant woman. Additionally, a single resident repeated the measurements in 20 patients.
The mother was placed in the supine position, and a linear transducer was gently placed over her closed upper eyelid. Colour flow Doppler was used to identify the OA. The average of 4 measurements was obtained. PSV ratio was calculated. Blood pressure was measured non-invasively using an arm cuff while the participant was seated. PAPP-A values were obtained from maternal antenatal care records.

Results:
The exam was conducted at a gestational age of 36.2 weeks ( ± 0.9). Mean maternal age was 33.4 years, and BMI was 24.2. A significant correlation was found between OA PSV ratio and BMI (p = 0.039), as well as blood pressure groups (p = 0.041). At BP group values closer to >140/90, OA PSV ratio tends to be > 0.66. Blood pressure groups showed significant differences in AUt values (p = 0.003). No significant correlation was found between OA PSV ratio and PAPP-A MoM. After five examinations, the resident was able to identify and measure OA PSV ratio within two minutes.

Conclusions:
This method provides valuable insights into hypertensive complications and is simple to learn. Residents can apply this method during their practice.
Original languageEnglish
Article numberEP16.53
Pages (from-to)276-277
JournalUltrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology
Volume66
Issue numberSuppl. 1
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2025
EventThe 35th World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology - Cancun, Mexico
Duration: 14 Sept 202517 Sept 2025

Field of Science*

  • 3.2 Clinical medicine

Publication Type*

  • 3.4. Other publications in conference proceedings (including local)

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