PhD Scientific Days 2025

Poster Session III. - K: Theoretical and Translational Medicine

Investigation of Placental Morphological Using High-Resolution CT

Name of the presenter

Hajduné Kubovje Anikó Anna

Institute/workplace of the presenter

Semmelweis University

Authors

Anikó Anna Hajduné Kubovje¹

1: Semmelweis University

Text of the abstract

Introduction: The placenta is a vital organ facilitating fetal development through a complex vascular network enabling nutrient and oxygen exchange. Abnormalities in placental vascular architecture are linked to numerous congenital defects. Current clinical assessments, including standard ultrasound, manual inspection, and limited histopathology of small samples, lack the quantitative and functional-anatomical resolution required for comprehensive placental assessment. While in utero CT angiography offers diagnostic insights, inherent risks from radiation and contrast agents necessitate alternative approaches. Advanced, high-precision imaging and analytical methodologies are critically needed to overcome these limitations.
Aims: The exact aim of the research is to understand which anatomical abnormalities – such as vascular developmental problems, calcification, or thrombosis – can lead to the most common prenatal diseases based on the analysis of high-resolution CT imaging of fresh placental samples. Specific objectives include optimizing placental perfusion and CT imaging, determining the calcification index and correlating it with maternal, neonatal, and pathological data, and investigating the geometry of the vascular network.
Method: Fresh placental samples (within 24 hours) are prepared via cannulation and perfused with a specialized contrast agent (MediLumine Vascupaint) for vascular visualization. High-resolution CT scans are acquired on a Siemens Naeotom Alpha scanner. Vessel and calcification segmentation is performed using Siemens Syngo and Slicer 3D software.
Results: The expected outcomes from the research include a more precise understanding of the correlations between placental anatomical abnormalities and prenatal diseases.
Conclusion: The results of the project may contribute to clarifying the relationship between placental morphological changes and prenatal conditions, potentially opening new avenues in the early diagnosis of fetal developmental disorders.
Funding: Funding for this research was provided by Semmelweis University through the PhD program.