Objectives: To test the feasibility of sonographic measurement of the umbilical cord (UC) length index in prediction of UC length and subsequent abnormalities at birth.
Methods: This study was done at tertiary University. We included 300 pregnant women who were ≥37 weeks admitted to labor ward. Sonographic evaluation of UC length index was calculated by counting the UC rings in each amniotic fluid quadrant. One point was given for each quadrant that contained UC ring and 0.5 point was given for each UC ring in one quadrant then the total score was calculated. After delivery of the fetus, the UC length was measured by flexible tape in cm. Any UC abnormalities at birth as true knots and neck loops were noted.
Results: Thirty-six cases (12%) were delivered vaginally while 264 (88%) of cases were delivered by CS. The mean UC length index was 3.35±1.17. Ten cases (3.3%) had short UC and their mean UC length index was 1.9±0.51. Normal UC cases were 269 (89.7%). Their mean UC length index was 3.27±1.07. Long UC cases were 21 (7%) and their mean UC length index was 5.09±0.86. Neck loops and true knots were significantly higher among newborns with long UC; 11 (52.3%) & 6 (20.6%) cases respectively (P=0.001). Meanwhile, placental separation was significantly higher among cases with short UC; 2 (20%) (P<0.001).
Conclusions: The calculation of UC length index before delivery can be used for predicting cord abnormalities due to short and long UCs.
Keywords: Umbilical cord; Ultrasonography; True knots; Fetal distress