Evaluation of the brain perfusion/circulation, cardiac function and its association with the neurodevelopment after birth.

PI: Gratacós, E
Funding Agency: Thrasher Research Fund, USA
Duration: 2005-2008

This project evaluates the changes in fractional moving blood volume (FMBV) a semi-quantitative technique to evaluate brain perfusion/circulation and the fetal cardiac function measures by echocardiography parameters in hypoxic fetuses.

Both parameters may help to estimate the optimal timing for delivery of these severely affected IUGR fetuses and thus reducing the risk of neural damage due to a delayed decision, and the risk of severe prematurity due to an early interruption of pregnancy.

Results of these prenatal findings are being associated to the long term neurodevelopment.