Early Detection Device Improves Preeclampsia Screening

A new system improves screening for hypertension in pregnancy, reducing morbidity and mortality for both mother and fetus.

The USCOM 1A is a noninvasive system that uses an external ultrasound transponder (similar to those used in a pregnancy monitoring) to send an ultrasound signal towards the heart. The ultrasound wave is reflected by the red blood cells (RBC), producing a unique echo that helps count the RBCs as they flow across the cardiac valves. Proprietary algorithms and specialized technology use the data to make an accurate calculation of the volume of blood flowing across the cardiac valves with each pump of the heart, an indication of blood pressure (BP).

A prospective observational study by researchers at the University of Rome (Italy) studied 120 otherwise normal women in early pregnancy, and found that USCOM 1A measurements detected preeclampsia BP changes of as early as five weeks into pregnancy, much earlier than the current 20 weeks with BP monitoring. The researchers concluded that USCOM 1A screening in early pregnancy may allow for earlier detection of preeclampsia and more appropriate interventions, and improve the outcomes of mothers and babies during pregnancy. The study was published in the January 2015 issue of Pregnancy Hypertension.

“USCOM 1A measurements detect changes in cardiovascular function long before they are detected by simple blood pressure monitors,” said Rob Phillips, CEO of Uscom. “USCOM 1A screening will significantly improve pregnancy outcomes and contribute to the saving of lives of mothers and babies worldwide. We are proud that our device is improving care in such an important group.”

The USCOM 1A, a product of Uscom (Sydney, NSW, Australia), is intended for mothers likely to deliver babies with a lower gestational age, with lower birth weights, those more frequently admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) for fetal distress at birth, and those who were delivered by caesarian section. The system also has other diverse applications, including pediatrics, emergency and intensive care, anesthesia, and cardiac assist devices.

An estimated 10 million pregnant women develop preeclampsia every year, and approximately 500,000 fetal and neonatal deaths and 76,000 women die from it every year.

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