Development of a Z-score equation for atrioventricular interval measurement by two-dimensional pulsed Doppler echocardiography in normal fetuses between 16 and 33+6 weeks of gestation.

Abstract

Purpose: Fetal echocardiography is the primary diagnostic tool for assessing the atrioventricular (AV) time interval. Establishing a reference range for this parameter throughout pregnancy is essential for the early detection of potential abnormalities. The aim of this study was to develop a Z-score equation and establish specific percentiles for the AV time interval in normal fetuses between 16 and 33+6 weeks of gestation.

Methods: A multicenter, prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted between 2018 and 2022. A large sample of pregnant women meeting specific eligibility criteria was included, while cases with potential confounders were excluded. Two-dimensional echocardiography with pulsed Doppler techniques was employed, focusing on the left ventricular inflow and outflow. Data were rigorously analyzed with careful assessment of measurements and normalization procedures.

Results: In total, 1,309 echocardiograms were performed, and 1,183 pregnant women were included after applying the eligibility criteria. Detailed percentiles for each gestational age were determined, and a Z-score equation was formulated. A very weak correlation was observed between AV interval measurement and gestational age (r=0.16, P<0.001). In addition, the correlation between AV interval measurement and fetal heart rate was weak (r=-0.21, P<0.001). The Z-score for the AV interval measurement in milliseconds was derived as follows: Z-score=(AV interval measurement-111.3)/8.6.

Conclusion: This study provides a reference range and Z-score equation for the AV interval, which may enhance the accuracy of monitoring fetuses at risk for developing atrioventricular block-especially in pregnant women with specific antibodies-thus facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment.