A study of congenital anomalies and perinatal outcome in oligohydramnios

Background: The amniotic fluid is a cocoon of protection in fetal life. Amniotic fluid volume is an indicator of fetal well-being. Too little amniotic fluid is called oligohydramnios and is associated with increased incidence of congenital malformations and neonatal mortality Aims & Objective: To estimate the incidence of congenital malformations and to study the perinatal outcome in oligohydramnios. Material and Methods: This prospective study was conducted in the Neonatal intensive care unit and the maternity wards of Father Muller Medical College Hospital, Mangalore. Ultrasound assessment of amniotic fluid index was recorded and cases of oligohydramnios detected were followed up. Congenital malformations were observed both by ante natal and post natal ultrasounds, other relevant investigations were also done when necessary. The perinatal outcome in terms of fetal distress, mortality and intrauterine growth retardation were recorded. Results: 120 cases of oligohdramnios were recorded. Seven newborns with congenital malformations were detected (5.8%). The most common congenital malformation was hydronephrosis. Four neonatal deaths were recorded in the study (3.3%). Fetal distress was observed in nine neonates (7.5%) and thirty neonates (25%) had intrauterine growth retardation. Conclusion: Congenital malformations, neonatal mortality, fetal distress and intra uterine growth retardation are significant risks in oligohydramnios. The lower the amniotic fluid index more is the risk of both mortality and congenital anomalies.