Use of transperineal ultrasonography in preterm labor

Introduction

In the management of preterm labor (PL), transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) remains the gold standard in terms of diagnosis and prognosis. The transperineal ultrasound (TPU) can be a reliable alternative.

Objective

• Present the use of transperineal ultrasound technique in preterm labor.
• Compare results of TVU and TPU on cervical length measurements and visualization of the opening of the internal os.

Methods

It is about a preliminary prospective study, including study patients between 14 and 36weeks’ gestation with a preterm labor. All the patients underwent transperineal and transvaginal cervical length assessment. The Pearson correlation coefficient and Lin concordance coefficient were used. Acceptable concordance was defined as >0.82, with an acceptable correlation of >0.9.

Results

59 patients underwent the protocol. The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.64.Close agreement between transperineal and transvaginal measurements was observed across the full range of cervical lengths.

Conclusion

Transperineal ultrasound is a as reliable as transvaginal ultrasound. Moreover, this technique is, fast, precise, trivial and providing more comfort for anxious patients.

Keywords

Preterm labor, cervix length, transperineal ultrasound