Fetal cardiac failure is a condition in which the fetal heart cannot pump enough blood to meet the metabolic demands of the tissues and is critically important in terms of perinatal morbidity and mortality. In the diagnostic process, Doppler ultrasonography parameters play a decisive role together with clinical findings.<\/p>\n
In fetal cardiac failure, umbilical artery Doppler findings are important in demonstrating increased placental resistance and circulatory burden. Increased pulsatility index and loss of end-diastolic flow suggest that the fetus is under hemodynamic stress and require close obstetric monitoring.<\/p>\n
Middle cerebral artery Doppler parameters are used to evaluate fetal compensation mechanisms. Cerebral vasodilation, defined as the brain-sparing effect, is observed with a decrease in the pulsatility index and indicates redistribution of the central circulation in progressive cardiac failure.<\/p>\n
Ductus venosus and tricuspid valve Doppler examination provide detailed information about cardiac filling pressures and ventricular functions. Detection of reversed flow in the a-wave of the ductus venosus or tricuspid regurgitation has prognostic value in terms of advanced-stage heart failure and the development of fetal hydrops.<\/p>\n