Altered jugular vein and ductus venosus flow velocities in fetuses with increased nuchal translucency and distended jugular lymphatic sacs.

Abstract

We sought to assess blood flow in relation to jugular lymphatic distension in fetuses with increased and normal nuchal translucency (NT). In all, 72 fetuses with normal NT and 71 fetuses with NT >95th percentile were evaluated. NT size, jugular lymphatic sacs (JLS), jugular vein and ductus venosus pulsatility index for veins (PIV), and intracardiac velocities were measured. JLS were visualized in 22/72 fetuses with normal and in 55/71 fetuses with increased NT. Jugular vein and ductus venosus PIV was higher in fetuses with increased NT compared to normal NT (P < .01). Visibility of JLS was associated with a higher ductus venous PIV (P < .05), but not with a higher jugular vein PIV. Larger NT and larger JLS volumes were associated with higher jugular vein and ductus venosus PIV (P < .05). This study shows a relation among increased NT, jugular lymphatic distension, and altered blood flow in jugular vein and ductus venosus.