Clinical considerations on oligohydramnios

BACKGROUND: Oligohydramnios represents a physiopathologic process, associated to a high rate of pregnancy complications and increased fetal morbidity and mortality. The purpose of this study is to determine whether amniotic fluid ultrasound evaluation is a useful parameter to identify pregnancies at risk for fetal distress. METHODS: 91 pregnant women with oligohydramnios were followed, and fetal conditions monitored with cardiotocography and ultrasounds. Delivery way and new-born conditions at birth were considered too. RESULTS: Cardiotocograms appeared abnormal in 61 cases (67%). Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) observed in 36 cases (39.56%). Cesarean section was performed in 60 cases (66%) for fetal distress, identified with cardiotocography. Also significant was the correlation with oligohydramnios, IUGR and cardiotocographic anomalies. From the results, it may be inferred that oligohydramnios is an index of affected fetal good health, because frequently is related with pregnancy anomalies and fetal health involvement. CONCLUSIONS: We can then affirm that the ultrasound evaluation of amniotic fluid represents a useful means to identify pregnancies at risk for fetal distress. In case of oligohydramnios, it is important to increase the surveillance on fetus, with the different means at our disposal (ultrasonography, velocimetry, cardiotocography).