Perinatal Outcome and Congenital Anomalies due to Polyhydramnios-A prospective study in a South Indian Setup

The amniotic fluid which sheathes the fetus acts to be a protective shroud. Fetal well-being is embodied by the amniotic fluid index. If the amniotic fluid index exceeds 25cms, it leads to polyhydramnios resulting in high rate of perinatal mortality and congenital malformations.

To evaluate the occurrence of congenital malformations and report perinatal outcome in polyhydramnios.

A Prospective study was conducted in Neonatal intensive care unit and gynecology wards of Owaisi Hospital and Research Centre for a period of 2 years.

50 cases of polyhydramnios were evaluated and followed up based on amniotic fluid index which was measured by conducting ultrasound scans; congenital malformations were observed both by ante natal and post natal ultrasound scans. The perinatal outcome such as congenital anomalies, fetal distress, mortality etc was recorded.

50 cases of Polyhdramnios formed the study population. Congenital malformations were found in 12% neonates of which Diaphragmatic hernia and hydrops fetalis were most commonly noted. 8% neonatal deaths were recognized. 2% cases with fetal distress were observed. If amniotic fluid index exceeded 30cms there was increased mortality rate and congenital malformations.

Attributable to Polyhydromnios, risk of congenital malformations, neonatal mortality and fetal distress was often observed and risks were greater with amniotic fluid index over 30cms.