Doppler and B-mode ultrasonography in biophysical profile scoring.
OBJECTIVE
Biophysical profile scoring (BPS) is a valuable antepartum test for establishing fetal well-being, although the time constraint in some clinics limits its extensive use. In this study we attempted to shorten the total test time without excluding any of the test components.


METHODS
The non-stress test (NST) part of the BPS was performed using simultaneous pulsed wave Doppler and B-mode ultrasonography (duplex NST). It was possible to observe all the components of the BPS during the same period (duplex BPS).


RESULTS
Fifty-four tests were performed on 40 pregnant patients. The mean test time was 14.3 min. A discrepancy was shown between the ultrasonographic observation and the women's perception of the fetal movements in 46% of the tests.


CONCLUSIONS
Duplex NST is considered a more reliable test than the classical cardiotocographic NST. Duplex BPS is proposed as an easy-to-perform, compact and time-saving modification to the classical BPS.
Sener
T
T
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Osmangazi University, Eskisehir, Turkey.
Ozalp
S
S
Hassa
H
H
Yildirim
A
A
D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development / Q000502:physiology*; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005323:Fetal Monitoring / Q000379:methods*; D005324:Fetal Movement / Q000502:physiology; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D018566:Pregnancy, High-Risk; D013997:Time Factors; D018617:Ultrasonography, Doppler, Pulsed; D016216:Ultrasonography, Prenatal