The overlooked organ: placental adaptation and visualisation

The placenta has a critical role during pregnancy, but is often ‘overlooked’ during an ultrasound scan. However, the clinician comes in near contact with the placenta during gestation in several moments. With the introduction of ultrasonography, it became possible to visualise this ‘discoid-shape’ organ. Regrettably, after half a century of research and having the answers close to our eyes during routine scans, we have not yet clarified and described the apparent pathophysiological alterations of the placenta that could lead to unfavourable complications for both mother and foetus. This thesis addresses the above-mentioned problem and pays the rightful attention to this important organ. It addresses ultrasonographic insights into the development of the placenta and its circulation and evaluates measurements for placental function.