Curriculum of Obstetrics
TOPIC 19
OLIGOHYDRAMNIOS AND POLYHYDRAMNIOS
RATIONALE
The amount of amniotic fluid (AF) in the amniotic cavity is variable, dependent on fetal and maternal factors. One of the anomalies most commonly found during routine office ultrasound examination is the AF alteration (oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios). It is of utmost importance to know what is normal in order to identify that which is abnormal. There are many methods for the diagnosis of AF volume. Knowledge and skills of the graduates should be updated to accommodate the recent modalities for the diagnosis and treatment of such problems.
GOALS
l Understand the magnitude of the problem, its different causes, and types
l Recognize and utilize basic diagnostic tools
l Emphasize complications and management strategies
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
By the end of this course, the student will be able to:
l List different causes of oligo- and polyhydramnios
l State the types of polyhydramnios
l Mention the clinical and sonographic diagnosis
l List the complications of oligo- and polyhydramnios
l Identify patients with high-risk factors who may develop the problem in antenatal clinics
CONTENT
l Definition and types of oligo- and polyhydramnios
l Etiology
l Preventive aspects
l Normal AF parameters
l Diagnosis and investigatory tools
l Guidelines for prevention of complications
l Guidelines for management
