Contribution of the sonography on placenta evaluation

Abstract

The placenta and its adnexa are known to be essential structures for the fetus since they permit all maternal-fetal nutritional exchange. Current routine ultrasound exams include a detailed evaluation of the placenta since the first trimester. In addition to the determination of placental localization and thickness, its diversity, morphology and function can be analyzed which, before the advent of ultrasonography, was only possible after delivery. In addition, today a detailed examination of the morphological and functional characteristics of the placenta is possible, with a significant impact on the follow-up of low and high risk pregnancies and, consequently, on fetal prognosis. In the present article, we discuss normal echographic aspects and the main diseases related to the placenta.