cerclage
Pronunciation: ser-KLAHZH
A surgical procedure involving placement of sutures around the cervix to prevent premature cervical opening during pregnancy.
Full Definition
Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure in which sutures are placed around the cervix to provide mechanical support and prevent premature cervical shortening or opening during pregnancy. It is primarily used to treat cervical insufficiency (incompetent cervix), a condition where the cervix begins to dilate and efface prematurely without contractions, potentially leading to second-trimester pregnancy loss or preterm birth. Cerclage can be placed prophylactically in high-risk patients, as an emergent intervention when cervical changes are detected, or as a rescue procedure when cervical dilation has already begun. The sutures are typically removed near term to allow for normal delivery.
Usage
Usage note: French-derived term; avoid anglicized pronunciations in professional contexts.
In Context
- "A prophylactic cerclage was placed at 14 weeks gestation due to her history of cervical insufficiency." — surgical procedure
- "The cerclage will be removed at 37 weeks to allow for spontaneous labor." — treatment plan