QUS-P: Quantitative UltraSound of the Placenta
In pregnancy, a lack of oxygen to the baby, called hypoxia, is a leading cause of newborn deaths and lifelong developmental problems. Doctors currently lack an objective way to identify pregnancies at increased risk of hypoxia at the time of admission to labor and delivery. The placenta is the key organ that provides oxygen to the baby. By taking a detailed look at the placenta prior to labour, it may be possible to identify which pregnancies are most at risk and take appropriate action to reduce risk of hypoxia.
QUS-P aims to reduce risks from hypoxia by capturing more detailed ultrasound information from the placenta. Researchers will use this information to better understand the functioning of the placenta and to differentiate between healthy pregnancies and pregnancies that need closer monitoring, especially in the late stage near labour and delivery.
Over the course of the project, the team aims to enrol 50 participants in the QUS-P study. All participants are recruited through BC Women’s Hospital. Participants are asked to complete an ultrasound scan at BC Women’s Hospital.
Team:
Our study team is comprised of researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC), BC Women’s Hospital (BCWH), and the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC). To view a list of our team members, please see Research Team.
Funding:
QUS-P is one of a team of global performers who were selected for the ARPA-H Make Obstetrics Care Smart program. ARPA-H aims to address this problem by developing technology to help families and care teams plan for and have safe deliveries.
Contact:
Email: qus-p@cw.bc.ca
Phone: 236-889-4182 (This phone number is for study recruitment purposes only. Please do not call or text this line. Questions or comments may be directed to qus-p@cw.bc.ca)