OP08.06: is Fetal Cardiac Function Gender Dependent? ‐ Comparative Study in Fetuses with a Normal Nuchal Translucency

Determination if gender related differences in cardiac function are present in the fetus. Cardiac echo Doppler measurements were performed at 11–14 and 18–23 weeks gestation (15 serial) in 44 chromosomally normal fetuses with normal NT and normal heart. Ductus venosus pulsatility index (DVPIV) was measured at 11–14 weeks. Cardiac measurements: Systolic function: peak velocity (PVel) over semilunar valves and stroke volume (SV). Diastolic function: E/A ratio across atrioventricular valves. Global cardiac function: Myocardial Performance Index (MPI). Statistics: Two sample t test (P ≤ 0.05). Normal NT (median 1.75 mm): 24 males, 20 females. RV MPI was significantly greater in females compared to males at 11–14 weeks (P < 0.04) suggesting a better global cardiac function in the males at this gestational age. No other significant gender related differences in cardiac function were found in fetuses at 11–14 or 18–23 weeks. In normal fetuses with a normal NT there seems to be no gender related difference in cardiac function except for possibly a better global cardiac function in the males at 11–14 weeks.