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Movahedi M, Goharian M, Rasti S, Zarean E, Tarrahi MJ, Shahshahan Z. The uterocervical angle-cervical length ratio: A promising predictor of preterm birth? Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024; 165:1122-1129. [PMID: 38230887 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15361] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To predict spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) (labor before 37 weeks of pregnancy) in low-risk singleton pregnancies during the second trimester, using ultrasound markers: uterocervical angle (UCA) and cervical length (CL). METHODS In a prospective observational cohort study, we followed primigravid women with singleton pregnancies without known risk factors for sPTB from 16+0-23+6 weeks of pregnancy until birth. Transvaginal ultrasonography on admission revealed the UCA and CL, and maternal history was obtained from submitted patient profiles. Logistic regression models disclosed significant predictive variables, and receiver operating curves (ROCs) demonstrated optimal cut-offs and test accuracy indices. Predictive functions of variables were compared using positive and negative likelihood ratios. RESULTS In a sample of 357 participants, 41 (11.5%) experienced sPTB. UCA and CL were significantly associated with sPTB when adjusting for other variables (adjusted odds ratio: UCA 1.05, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.02-1.07 and CL 0.82, 95% CI 0.75-0.90). Optimal cut-offs were estimated to be 106° and 33 mm for UCA and CL, respectively. We devised the novel index UCA/CL with an area under the ROC of 0.781 (95% CI 0.734-0.823), cut-off = 3.09°/mm, and improved likelihood ratios (positive: 3.18, 2.47, and 4.22; negative: 0.63, 0.52, and 0.51 for UCA, CL, and UCA/CL, respectively). CONCLUSION The second-trimester UCA/CL was found to be a promising index to predict sPTB in low-risk singleton pregnancies. Further multicenter studies may generalize this conclusion to other gestational ages or risk groups and make it more comprehensive by considering other risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minoo Movahedi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Maryam Goharian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Sina Rasti
- Department of Radiology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Elaheh Zarean
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Mohammad Javad Tarrahi
- Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Zahra Shahshahan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
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Sun H, Wu A, Lu M, Cao S. Liability, risks, and recommendations for ultrasound use in the diagnosis of obstetrics diseases. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21829. [PMID: 38045126 PMCID: PMC10692788 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/27/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/05/2023] Open
Abstract
This literature review will summarize the liability issues, risks, and ultrasound recommendations for diagnosing obstetrics diseases. One liability issue is related to misdiagnosis or failure to detect abnormalities during an ultrasound examination. Ultrasound images can be subjective interpretations, and errors may occur due to factors such as operator skill, equipment limitations, or fetal positioning. Another liability concern is related to the potential adverse effects of ultrasound exposure on both the mother and fetus. While extensive research has shown that diagnostic ultrasound is generally safe when used appropriately, there are still uncertainties regarding long-term effects. Some studies suggest a possible association between prolonged or excessive exposure to ultrasound waves and adverse outcomes such as low birth weight, developmental delays, or hearing impairment. Additionally, obtaining informed consent from patients is crucial in mitigating liability risks. Patients should be informed about the purpose of the ultrasound examination, its benefits, limitations, potential risks (even if minimal), and any alternative diagnostic options available. This ensures that patients know the procedure and can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Proper documentation helps establish a clear record of the care provided and can serve as evidence in any legal disputes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haiting Sun
- Department of Ultrasound, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, Zhejiang Province, PR China
| | - An Wu
- Department of Ultrasound, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, Zhejiang Province, PR China
| | - Minli Lu
- Department of Ultrasound, The Affiliated Xiangshan Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Ningbo, 315700, Zhejiang Province, PR China
| | - Shan Cao
- Department of Obstetrics, The Affiliated Second People's Hospital of Yuhang District, Hangzhou City, Hangzhou, 311100, Zhejiang Province, PR China
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Kurjak A, Medjedovic E, Stanojević M. Use and misuse of ultrasound in obstetrics with reference to developing countries. J Perinat Med 2023; 51:240-252. [PMID: 36302110 DOI: 10.1515/jpm-2022-0438] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Maternal and neonatal health is one of the main global health challenges. Every day, approximately 800 women and 7,000 newborns die due to complications during pregnancy, delivery, and neonatal period. The leading causes of maternal death in sub-Saharan Africa are obstetric hemorrhage (28.8%), hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (22.1%), non-obstetric complications (18.8%), and pregnancy-related infections (11.5%). Diagnostic ultrasound examinations can be used in a variety of specific circumstances during pregnancy. Because adverse outcomes may also arise in low-risk pregnancies, it is assumed that routine ultrasound in all pregnancies will enable earlier detection and improved management of pregnancy complications. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimated in 1997 that 50% of developing countries had no access to ultrasound imaging, and available equipment was outdated or broken. Unfortunately, besides all the exceptional benefits of ultrasound in obstetrics, its inappropriate use and abuse are reported. Using ultrasound to view, take a picture, or determine the sex of a fetus without a medical indication can be considered ethically unjustifiable. Ultrasound assessment when indicated should be every woman's right in the new era. However, it is still only a privilege in some parts of the world. Investment in both equipment and human resources has been clearly shown to be cost-effective and should be an obligatory step in the improvement of health care. Well-developed health systems should guide developing countries, creating principles for the organization of the health system with an accent on the correct, legal, and ethical use of diagnostic ultrasound in pregnancy to avoid its misuse. The aim of the article is to present the importance of correct and appropriate use of ultrasound in obstetrics and gynecology with reference to developing countries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asim Kurjak
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Edin Medjedovic
- Clinic of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Clinical Center University of Sarajevo, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina.,Department of Gynecology, School of Medicine, Sarajevo School of Science and Technology, Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Milan Stanojević
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital "Sveti Duh", Zagreb, Croatia.,Neonatal Unit, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical School University of Zagreb, Zagreb, Croatia
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Shazly SA, Radwan AA, Abdo MS, Moustafa HY, Abd-Elkariem AY, Ali SS, Ahmed NB, Hosny EM, Abouzeid MH, Eltaweel NA, Hortu I, Abdelbadie AS, Fahmy MS, Attyia MI, Shawki AA, Said AE, Mohamed YI, Hemdan HN, Hemdan MN, Mohamed NG, Adam RI. Middle-East obgyn graduate education (MOGGE) foundation practice guidelines: diagnostic approach to pregnancy of unknown location: practice guideline no. 03-O-21. MIDDLE EAST FERTILITY SOCIETY JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.1186/s43043-022-00114-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background
Pregnancy of unknown location (PUL) is a term used to describe failure of visualization of intrauterine or extrauterine gestational sac in a woman with a positive pregnancy test.
Body of the abstract
Ectopic pregnancy (EP) accounts for 1–2 % of all pregnancies. EP contributes to maternal mortality of a known cause by 4% in developed countries. However, case fatality rate may be 10 times higher in low-resource countries. This may be attributed to delayed diagnosis and lack of resources. PUL is a temporary term that may eventually lead to diagnosis of viable intrauterine pregnancy, pregnancy loss, or more seriously, EP.
Conclusion
This guideline appraises current evidence on assessment of PUL and early diagnosis of EP particularly in low-resource settings.
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Mallard S, Kennedy N, Najafzadeh Abriz A, Quinton A. Exploring the use of knobology for image optimisation in final year sonography students. ULTRASOUND (LEEDS, ENGLAND) 2022; 30:299-306. [PMID: 36969539 PMCID: PMC10034655 DOI: 10.1177/1742271x211053029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Image optimisation is essential for acquisition of quality images in ultrasound and critical to the diagnostic ability of the examination. These skills are taught to sonography students early in their education, but research has found that retention of non-rehearsed knowledge decreases significantly after a year. The aim of this study was to determine which optimisation tools (knobology) final year sonography students use, how often and why they chose to adjust parameters and assess barriers to optimisation of knobology tools. Methods A prospective study using data from an anonymous online survey of 34 final year sonography students. Results Survey results showed that 19/34 (55%) of students "frequently" optimise all Doppler settings and 23/34 (67%) of students "frequently" optimise basic parameter settings (depth, focus, time gain compensation). Time constraints (24/34 (70%)) and loss of gained knowledge of sonography principles and instrumentation (17/34 (50%)) were the major barriers to the use of knobology. The majority 28/34 (82%) believed they would benefit from further training. Conclusion This study demonstrates that although most students are optimising settings to improve image quality, sonography principles and instrumentation knowledge loss and time constraints prevent students from maximising machine capabilities. This study supports the need for further training prior to final year clinical placement.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Narelle Kennedy
- Discipline of Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Neonatology, Sydney Medical
School Nepean, University of Sydney, Nepean Hospital, Penrith, NSW, Australia
| | - Afrooz Najafzadeh Abriz
- Medical Sonography School of Health, Medical and Applied Science, Central
Queensland University, Perth, WA, Australia
| | - Ann Quinton
- Medical Sonography School of Health, Medical and Applied Science, Central
Queensland University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Van den Hof MC, Smithies M, Nevo O, Oullet A. No. 375-Clinical Practice Guideline on the Use of First Trimester Ultrasound. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2020; 41:388-395. [PMID: 30784569 DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2018.09.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This guideline reviews the clinical indications for first trimester ultrasound. OUTCOME Proven clinical benefit has been reported from first trimester ultrasound. EVIDENCE A Medline search and bibliography reviews in relevant literature provided the evidence. VALUES Content and recommendations were reviewed by the principal authors and the Diagnostic Imaging Committee of the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada. Levels of evidence were judged as outlined by the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care. RECOMMENDATIONS
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Van den Hof MC, Smithies M, Nevo O, Ouellet A. No 375 – Directive clinique sur l'utilisation de l’échographie au premier trimestre. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2019; 41:396-404. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2018.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Correction. JOURNAL OF OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY CANADA 2018; 40:1702. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jogc.2018.10.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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