Assessment of Placental Elasticity Using Strain Elastography in Late Trimester Singleton Pregnancies.A Comparative Study Between Gdm and Non Gdm Mothers: A Cross Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is associated with placental structural and functional alterations that may influence fetal outcomes. Strain elastography is a novel, non-invasive imaging modality that assesses tissue stiffness and may help detect placental changes in GDM pregnancies.

Objective: To assess placental elasticity using strain elastography in late trimester singleton pregnancies and to compare findings between GDM and non-GDM mothers.

Methods: This hospital-based cross-sectional comparative study was conducted in the Department of Radiodiagnosis at a tertiary care centre over six months. A total of 80 pregnant women (≥28 weeks gestation) were included and divided into two groups: GDM (n=40) and non-GDM (n=40) based on WHO criteria. Placental elasticity was measured using strain elastography during third-trimester ultrasonography. Data were analyzed using independent t-test and chi-square test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant.

Results: Placental elasticity values were significantly higher in the GDM group compared to the non-GDM group (p < 0.001), indicating increased placental stiffness in diabetic pregnancies. Elevated placental stiffness was also associated with adverse neonatal outcomes such as increased NICU admissions and respiratory distress.

Conclusion: Strain elastography is a promising tool for assessing placental changes in GDM pregnancies. Increased placental stiffness may serve as an early indicator of placental dysfunction and adverse fetal outcomes, supporting its role in antenatal risk stratification.