Sonographic assessment of fetal deglutition in polyhydramnios

Background: Impaired fetal deglutition may underlie some cases with apparently isolated polyhydramnios. Case Reports: Fetal deglutition movements were examined sonographically in 12 fetuses with polyhydramnios. There were 2 cases of polyhydramnios in which no fetal deglutition could be detected (2/12; 17%). In the first case, ascites developed at 29 weeks, and the fetus died in utero at 32 weeks. The second fetus was delivered at 33 weeks by cesarean section. After 2 weeks of parenteral nutrition, the infant was capable of swallowing. No neurological damage was verified. Conclusions: Fetuses with polyhydramnios and impaired swallowing may warrant a higher degree of antenatal and perinatal surveillance.