Description

Vasa previa refers to the presence of large placental vessels crossing the cervical opening ahead of the presenting part. These vessels are relatively fragile and sensitive to trauma, which may result in sudden hemorrhage or thrombosis. Fetal demise may occur if the condition is not recognized and managed appropriately.


 

Main associations for vasa previa:

(1) abnormal placentation

(2) abnormal insertion of the umbilical cord

(3) abnormal fertility

(3) abnormalities felt on physical examination

 

Abnormal placentation:

(1) bilobed placenta (2 separate disks of approximately equal size)

(2) succenturiate placenta (accessory disk)

(3) 3 or more plates (rare)

(4) low lying placenta (near the cervical canal)

 

Abnormal insertion of the umbilical cord:

(1) velamentous insertion

(2) marginal insertion

 

Abnormal fertility:

(1) multiple pregnancies (twins, triplets, etc.)

(2) pregnancy secondary to in vitro fertilization

 

Abnormal physical examination:

(1) palpable umbilical cord

(2) palpable structure thought to represent an amniotic band

 

The presence of one or more of these findings should prompt transvaginal Doppler ultrasonography.

 


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