Premium
In vivo assessment of the biomechanical properties of the uterine cervix in pregnancy
Author(s) -
Mazza Edoardo,
ParraSaavedra Miguel,
Bajka Michael,
Gratacos Eduard,
Nicolaides Kypros,
Deprest Jan
Publication year - 2014
Publication title -
prenatal diagnosis
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.956
H-Index - 97
eISSN - 1097-0223
pISSN - 0197-3851
DOI - 10.1002/pd.4260
Subject(s) - cervix , elastography , medicine , gestation , stiffness , uterine cervix , pregnancy , bishop score , consistency (knowledge bases) , obstetrics , biomedical engineering , gynecology , ultrasound , radiology , pathology , materials science , carcinoma , computer science , cancer , biology , genetics , artificial intelligence , composite material
Measuring the stiffness of the cervix might be useful in the prediction of preterm delivery or successful induction of labor. For that purpose, a variety of methods for quantitative determination of physical properties of the pregnant cervix have been developed. Herein, we review studies on the clinical application of these new techniques. They are based on the quantification of mechanical, optical, or electrical properties associated with increased hydration and loss of organization in collagen structure. Quasi‐static elastography determines relative values of stiffness; hence, it can identify differences in deformability. Quasi‐static elastography unfortunately cannot quantify in absolute terms the stiffness of the cervix. Also, the current clinical studies did not demonstrate the ability to predict the time point of delivery. In contrast, measurement of maximum deformability of the cervix (e.g. quantified with the cervical consistency index) provided meaningful results, showing an increase in compliance with gestational age. These findings are consistent with aspiration measurements on the pregnant ectocervix, indicating a progressive decrease of stiffness along gestation. Cervical consistency index and aspiration measurements therefore represent promising techniques for quantitative assessment of the biomechanical properties of the cervix. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.