Placental Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Elastography in Prediction of Pre Eclampsia in High-Risk Pregnancy Patients

Veeresh, Nabarun Das, Tepty Kutum, Imdadul Islam

Abstract: Background: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a significant hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, posing risks to maternal and fetal health. Early prediction remains a challenge, especially in high-risk pregnancies. Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) elastography has emerged as a non-invasive method to assess placental stiffness, potentially offering an early marker for PE. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the role of ARFI elastography in predicting pre-eclampsia in high-risk pregnancies by assessing placental stiffness through shear wave velocity (SWV). Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted at Silchar Medical College and Hospital, Assam, involving 53 high-risk pregnant women. SWV measurements were taken at two gestational intervals (18-22 weeks and 34-36 weeks) using ARFI elastography. Participants were divided into two groups: those who developed pre-eclampsia (Group B) and those who did not (Group A). Data were analyzed using SPSS, and diagnostic accuracy was assessed using ROC curves. Results: Significantly higher SWV values were found in Group B at both gestational intervals (18-22 weeks: p < 0.001; 34-36 weeks: p < 0.01). At 18-22 weeks, the SWV cutoff of 1.07 m/s demonstrated 88.9% sensitivity and 90.9% specificity. The progression of SWV values from early to late gestation in Group B indicated worsening placental stiffness with disease advancement. Conclusion: ARFI elastography is a reliable, non-invasive technique for early prediction of pre-eclampsia, offering high sensitivity and specificity. Its ability to detect increased placental stiffness supports its potential as a screening tool, particularly in high-risk pregnancies, enhancing early diagnosis and management.

Keywords: Pre-eclampsia, ARFI elastography, Placental stiffness

How to Cite?: Veeresh, Nabarun Das, Tepty Kutum, Imdadul Islam, "Placental Acoustic Radiation Force Impulse (ARFI) Elastography in Prediction of Pre Eclampsia in High-Risk Pregnancy Patients", Volume 14 Issue 8, August 2025, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 1559-1566, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR25811131209, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR25811131209