Sonographic Evaluation of Umbilical Vein

Abstract

To evaluate intraabdominal course of umbilical vein, its relation with portal vein and ductus venosus and its anomalies. All pregnant women were examined during midtrimester anomaly scan between January 2015 and December 2017. With evaluation of umbilical vein in its intraabdominal course, size of umbilical vein, its relation to the stomach and the gallbladder and origin of ductus venosus were studied in middle and upper abdominal axial and sagittal planes by two dimensional and colour doppler sonography. Anastomosis of umbilical vein with portal vein and its further course was examined and detailed anatomical survey was made to look for associated anomalies. Fetal and neonatal outcome was assessed after delivery. Twelve cases of umbilical vein abnormalities were evaluated. Of them, there were three cases of umbilical vein varix, four cases of persistent right umbilical vein and five cases of abnormal umbilical–portal–systemic venous shunt were noted. Examination of the intraabdominal course of umbilical vein and ductus venosus should be a part of second trimester anomaly scan. Proper knowledge of umbilical portal venous system is mandatory.