cervical cerclage
Pronunciation: ser-KLAHZH
Surgical suture placed around the cervix to prevent preterm delivery, often required after fetal surgery.
Full Definition
Cervical cerclage involves placing a suture around the cervix to provide mechanical support and prevent cervical incompetence leading to preterm delivery. In fetal surgery contexts, cerclage may be placed prophylactically before the procedure or emergently if cervical shortening occurs postoperatively. The procedure can be performed via transvaginal or transabdominal approaches, with timing and technique dependent on gestational age and cervical anatomy. Editors must understand the relationship between fetal surgery and subsequent cervical incompetence risk.
Usage
Usage note: Specify approach (transvaginal/transabdominal) and indication (prophylactic/therapeutic/emergency) when applicable.
In Context
- "Emergency cervical cerclage was performed due to cervical funneling noted 48 hours post-procedure." — Postoperative complication report
- "Prophylactic cerclage placement was considered given the patient's history of cervical incompetence." — Preoperative planning note