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Vasa praevia: diagnosis and management
Author(s) -
Murray Aoife,
Murphy Deirdre J
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1576/toag.10.4.217.27437
Subject(s) - medicine , obstetrics , obstetrics and gynaecology , prenatal diagnosis , ultrasonography , gynecology , fetus , pregnancy , surgery , genetics , biology
• Vasa praevia occurs when unprotected fetal vessels cross the cervix beneath the presenting part. • It occurs in approximately 1 in 3000–6000 births. • Rapid fetal haemorrhage can result. • A high index of suspicion and appropriate use of prenatal ultrasonography may prevent perinatal death.Learning objectives:• To recognise the risk factors and diagnostic criteria. • To review the role of expert ultrasonography. • To recognise the need for prompt action and a clear care plan.Ethical issues:• Should prenatal detection of vasa praevia be a routine component of antenatal care? • Should resource constraints influence the availability of prenatal diagnostic testing?Please cite this article as: Murray A, Murphy DJ. Vasa praevia: diagnosis and management. The Obstetrician & Gynaecologist 2008;10:217–223.