OC12.09: Just images: Three‐dimensional assessment of the internal cervical os in pregnancies with and without premature labor or cervical incompetence

Abstract

The anatomic relationship of the internal os of the cervix was evaluated by three-dimensional imaging in normal and abnormal gestations. Aloka and Voluson series equipped with Biomedicom SonoReal systems were utilized. The anatomy of the internal os of the cervix was examined in linear and volume planes. Patients with premature labor or cervical incompetence were compared to normal controls. Gestational ages were distributed from 8 to 34 weeks. As reported in 2-dimensional studies, volume and multiplanar assessment of cervical length less than 1.5 cm correlated well with clinical risk for premature labor and preterm birth. The provocative ability to identify cervical internal os funneling by three-dimensional imaging gave three distinct forms. These were smooth, circular, and oval. The oval form had the highest correlation with true risk of preterm labor and birth, and often was in place prior to absolute cervical shortening. A technique of three-dimensional evaluation of the internal cervical os is feasible and provides a unique view of this anatomic area. Further prospective studies with correlation of three-dimensional anatomy to clinical outcome are recommended. http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0960-7692/suppmat/index.html This article contains supplementary material available via the Internet from the Journal http://www.interscience.wiley.com/jpages/0960-7692/suppmat/index.html Please note: The publisher is not responsible for the content or functionality of any supporting information supplied by the authors. Any queries (other than missing content) should be directed to the corresponding author for the article.