Study of New Ultrasound Methods to Assess Placenta Health in Pregnancies With and Without Fetal Growth Restriction

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating two advanced ultrasound technologies, quantitative ultrasound QUS and ultrafast power Doppler imaging uPDI, to assess placental health and blood flow in pregnancies with and without fetal growth restriction FGR. This proof-of-concept, case-control clinical trial aims to determine whether these imaging methods can distinguish healthy pregnancies from those affected by FGR, a condition where the fetus weighs below the 10th percentile for its gestational age. Secondary goals include tracking changes in these ultrasound measures over time and their association with pregnancy complications such as severe FGR, abnormal umbilical artery Doppler results, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and stillbirth. Participants diagnosed with either normal fetal growth or FGR through standard ultrasounds will receive research ultrasounds using the Verasonics Vantage 256 system every three weeks from the time of their routine growth ultrasound until delivery. Each ultrasound session includes a standard exam to confirm fetal viability and anatomical survey, followed by detailed imaging of the placenta at multiple locations using QUS and uPDI. The study ultrasound machine displays safety indicators to ensure exposure stays within guidelines. These research ultrasounds are performed in a calm clinical setting by trained sonographers, with results shared with participants and their healthcare providers. During the study, participants will undergo repeated ultrasound assessments every three weeks until delivery, with data collected on fetal growth, placental blood flow, and tissue characteristics. Researchers will analyze the number and velocity of spiral arteries detected, speed of sound through placental tissue, and other imaging measures to identify differences between healthy and FGR pregnancies. Additional outcomes include rates of abnormal umbilical artery Doppler measurements, preeclampsia, and stillbirth. Participants will also provide demographic and medical history information to help interpret imaging results, and their routine clinical care continues independently of the research.

Placental Imaging Techniques