Ultrasonographic evaluation of Caval Aortic Index in gestational and pregestational diabetes: a predictor of perinatal outcomes?

Aims: Diabetes mellitus (DM), including gestational (GDM) and pregestational diabetes (pre-GDM), adversely affects maternal and fetal outcomes due to hyperglycemia and vascular changes. The Caval Aortic Index, a non-invasive measure of blood volume, could provide insights into these complications. In our study, we aimed to determine the functional changes in inferior vena cava (IVC) and aorta (Ao) diameters as well as the importance of caval aortic index in predicting perinatal outcomes in diabetic pregnant women. Methods: This prospective case-control study included 120 DM patients and 100 controls. DM patients were divided into pre-GDM, diet-regulated GDM, and insulin-regulated GDM groups. Ultrasound measurements of inferior vena cava and aortic diameters were performed, alongside Doppler evaluations. Statistical analyses were conducted to assess the association of these parameters with adverse perinatal outcomes. Results: Although the IVC and aortic diameters of the pregnant women with DM were higher compared to the control group and a statistically significant difference (p