cerclage
Pronunciation: ser-KLAHZH
A surgical procedure involving placement of stitches around the cervix to prevent premature cervical dilation and pregnancy loss.
Full Definition
Cervical cerclage is a surgical intervention used to prevent pregnancy loss or preterm birth in women with cervical insufficiency (incompetence). The procedure involves placing permanent or temporary sutures around the cervix to provide mechanical support and prevent premature dilation. Cerclage may be placed prophylactically based on obstetric history, for ultrasound-indicated shortening, or as an emergency rescue procedure. Types include McDonald cerclage (simple purse-string suture) and Shirodkar cerclage (higher placement with bladder mobilization). The procedure is typically performed between 12-24 weeks of gestation.
Usage
Usage note: French pronunciation. Often preceded by type specification (McDonald, Shirodkar, or transabdominal).
In Context
- "McDonald cerclage was placed at 14 weeks due to history of second-trimester losses." — Operative report
- "The cerclage remained intact throughout pregnancy and was removed at 37 weeks prior to delivery." — Delivery summary