Ultrasound measurement of cervical length and risk of preterm birth

Abstract

Introduction: Preterm birth is the cause of the greatest number of neonatal deaths worldwide and also of neurological sequels, this implies a high cost for the family and the State. Many studies have already been done to try to prevent it. Objective: to update the ultrasound methods used to diagnose cervical alterations in relation to preterm delivery. Results: transvaginal ultrasound can measure and evaluate the characteristics of the cervix in pregnant women, which is why it is the most widely used method to identify women at risk of spontaneous preterm birth, and it can be used as screening due to its accessible cost and availability in the Health services. Conclusions: the ultrasound measurement of the length of the cervix at 23 weeks of gestation represents the best independent predictor for delivery before 32 weeks. Artículo original Medición ecográfica de la longitud cervical y riesgo de parto