What Is Ductus Venosus Flow

The ductus venosus is a shunt that allows oxygenated blood in the umbilical vein to bypass the liver and is essential for normal fetal circulation

What is ductus venosus in pregnancy?

Abstract. The ductus venosus is the very important part of fetal venous circulation. It plays a central role in return of venous blood from the placenta. This unique shunt carries well-oxygenated blood from the umbilical vein through the inferior atrial inlet on its way across the foramen ovale.

What causes ductus venosus?

Shortly after birth, blood flow and blood pressure in the umbilical sinus decrease abruptly. This causes the orifice of the ductus venosus to retract and narrow, resulting in functional closure of the vascular shunt.