Publications [#329681] of Amy H Herring

Papers Published

1. Swartz, AE; Ruma, MS; Kim, E; Herring, AH; Menard, MK; Moise, KJ, The effect of fetal heart rate on the peak systolic velocity of the fetal middle cerebral artery., Obstetrics and gynecology, vol. 113 no. 6 (June, 2009), pp. 1225-1229 [doi]
   (last updated on 2025/07/04)

   Abstract:
   

   Objective

   To estimate the effect of an increase in the basal heart rate of the fetus on the middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity (MCA-PSV).

   Methods

   This was a prospective longitudinal cohort. Patients between 14 and 36 weeks of gestation were enrolled (N=66). Ultrasound examinations were performed monthly. MCA-PSV measurements were assessed at 0-degree angle of insonation at basal fetal heart rate and after application of vibroacoustic stimulation.

   Results

   A total of 514 MCA-PSV measurements were obtained in 66 fetuses. No difference in fetal heart rate before and after vibroacoustic stimulation was noted before 27 weeks of gestation. A significant increase in fetal heart rate after vibroacoustic stimulation was detected from a mean+/-standard deviation gestational age of 27.1+/-1.3 weeks onward. A significant decrease in the MCA-PSV was noted between before vibroacoustic stimulation and after vibroacoustic stimulation measurements for examinations 3,4, and 5 (P<.001 for all).

   Conclusion

   Acceleration of the fetal heart rate in the third trimester is associated with a decrease in the middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity. Assessment of the MCA-PSV for the detection of fetal anemia, particularly in the third trimester, should be undertaken during a period of baseline fetal heart rate to avoid the potential of a false-negative result.

   Level of evidence

   II.

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