The prediction of preterm birth threat by uterocervical angle

Objective: Preterm birth is the most significant reason for newborn mortality and morbidity, and it is possible to achieve positive neonatal outcomes by early diagnosis and treatment. In our study, we aimed to investigate the efficiency of uterocervical angle (UCA) measurement for the prediction of preterm birth. Methods: A total of 82 singleton pregnant women who admitted to our emergency maternity ward with pain complaint between 24 and 34 weeks of gestation were included in this prospective empirical study. Age, last menstrual period, week of gestation, gravida, parity, abortion, preterm labor history, previous cervical surgery, body mass index, presence of chronic disease, and smoking habit of each pregnant woman were investigated, their Bishop scores were calculated, and cervical length and UCA measurements were performed by transvaginal ultrasound examination under optimal conditions. The patients were discharged after observation, examination and treatment processes. After the delivery, the week of gestation, delivery type, newborn’s birth weight, sex and the need for intensive care unit were investigated. Results: Among the etiological factors, only the multiparity and abortion history were found significantly high in pregnant women who had preterm delivery. The cut-off value for UCA measurements was determined 80.5°. The rate of UCA >80.5° in women who delivered before 37 weeks of gestation was found 75%, and it was significantly higher than the term cases (p=0.007). For this value, it was found that UCA sensitivity was 75%, selectivity was 58%, positive prediction value was 53% and negative prediction value was 77%. Conclusion: In consideration of our findings, uterocervical angle measurement over 80.5° poses a high risk for deliveries before 37 weeks of gestation, and it provides a higher diagnostic performance than cervical length measurement and Bishop scoring.