Vasa previa
Pronunciation: VAH-sah PREE-vee-ah
Condition where fetal blood vessels cross the cervical opening, creating risk of vessel rupture during delivery.
Full Definition
Vasa previa is a rare obstetric condition where fetal blood vessels from the umbilical cord or placenta cross the internal cervical os, lying between the presenting fetal part and the cervix. This creates significant risk of vessel rupture and fetal hemorrhage when the membranes rupture or during cervical dilation. The condition is often associated with velamentous cord insertion or accessory placental lobes. Prenatal diagnosis via ultrasound with color Doppler is crucial for planning cesarean delivery to prevent fetal mortality.
Usage
Usage note: Always document the relationship to the cervical os and delivery planning implications.
In Context
- "Color Doppler ultrasound confirmed vasa previa with vessels crossing the internal os." — Ultrasound report
- "Given the diagnosis of vasa previa, cesarean delivery was scheduled at 35 weeks." — Delivery planning note