Ultrasonic evaluation of fetal umbilical and hepatic vascular anatomy.

Abstract

It is important to understand the relationships among the vessels of the [human] fetal umbilical and portal venous system. Embryological development and maternal-fetal circulation are described. Characteristic ultrasonographic features of fetal vascular anatomy are presented. Demonstration of this anatomy fosters a clearer understanding of fetal hepatic segmental anatomy and encourages proper use of hepatic landmarks and nomenclature. The ultimate location of errant catheters in the umbilical vein can also be predicted.