The role of three-dimensional ultrasonography fetal lung volume measurement in the prediction of neonatal respiratory function outcome

AbstractBackground: Respiratory distress is commonly encountered among premature babies immediately after birth resulting in significant neonatal morbidity or mortality.Objectives: To evaluate the possible correlation between three dimensional fetal lung volumes (FLVs) and neonatal respiratory outcomes.Study design: A cohort study included 100 pregnant women who participated in the study and were divided into two groups; group A (n: 50 – women pregnant ±34–37 weeks) and group B (n: 50 – women pregnant ±37+1 to 40 weeks). A three dimensional measurement of the right fetal lung was made using virtual organ computer-aided analysis (VOCAL) software then correlated to neonatal respiratory functions namely Apgar score at birth and the occurrence of respiratory distress syndrome (RDS).Results: In group A, FLV was negatively correlated with Apgar score and the occurrence of RDS. In group B, FLV showed no statistical correlation with Apgar score and the occurrence of RDS.Conclusions: Three dimensional fetal lung v...