FETAL CIRCULATION
➦ Definition:
Fetal Circulation or Foetal Circulation refers to the unique circulatory system that allows the exchange of gases and nutrients between the developing fetus and the pregnant mother.
.png "Fetal Circulation Diagram") |
| Fetal Circulation Diagram |
➦ Umbilical Cord:
● Umbilical Arteries:
Return non-oxygenated blood, Biological waste, and CO₂ from fetal body to placenta.
● Umbilical Vein:
Bring Oxygenated blood and nutrients to the fetus.
The umbilical vein carries 80% saturated blood from the placenta.
➦ Shunts:
● Ductus Venosus:
Connects the umbilical vein and inferior vena cava.
● Ductus Arteriosus:
Connects the main pulmonary artery to the aorta.
● Foramen Ovale:
Anatomical opening between right and left atrium.
➦ Cardiac Output:
- During fetal life – 350 ml/kg/min
- Following birth – 500 ml/kg/min
➦ Fetal Heart Rate;
The normal fetal heart rate is 120 – 160 beats/min.
➦ Fetal Circulation Flow Chart:
.jpg "fetal circulation flow chart") |
| Fetal Circulation Flow Chart |
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