[Ultrasonographic diagnosis of cervical incompetence]

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to verify clinical diagnosis of cervical incompetence by the use of transvaginal sonography.

Material and methods: 101 pregnant women hospitalized at the Pathological Pregnancy Department, Medical University of Lodz in years 2000-2002 because of suspicion of cervical incompetence were analysed. The mean age of examined group was 24 +/- 3.24 yr. All pregnant women underwent ultrasound cervical assessment at the 18-30 week of gestation by using Hitachi EUB 515C system. Sonographic measurements of cervical length and width were performed. The cervical length below 30 mm and width at least 6 mm were sonographic criteria of cervical incompetence.

Results: In 63 pregnant women cervical incompetence was not confirmed by ultrasound examination. In 38 patients sonographic features of cervical incompetence were established. 38 pregnant women were underwent elective cervical cerclage for cervical incompetence. Because of poor previous history 8 women with normal ultrasound examination were treated by cervical cerclage.

Conclusions: We conclude, that clinical diagnosis of cervical incompetence should be verified by the use of transvaginal sonography to provide an objective diagnosis.