Physical Address
304 North Cardinal St.
Dorchester Center, MA 02124
Vasa Praevia
Introduction
Vasa praevia is a rare disorder of pregnancy with a devastating outcome when undiagnosed. The condition classically presents with ruptured membranes, painless vaginal bleeding and fetal distress (Benckiser’s haemorrhage). , Antenatal ultrasound diagnosis of the condition has been possible since the late 1980s and planned hospitalization, targeted steroid administration and scheduled delivery, usually between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation, results in improved fetal survival.
Definition
Vasa praevia describes the presence of fetal vessels running through the fetal membranes close to or over the cervix. Unsupported by placental tissue or Wharton’s jelly, these vessels are susceptible to bleeding at the time of membrane rupture, either spontaneously or at the time of amniotomy. Resultant fetal haemorrhage can lead to exsanguination. There are two types of vasa praevia. In type I, there is a velamentous or marginal cord insertion and the fetal vessels that lie within the amniotic membranes overlie or are close to the cervix. Type I vasa praevia is associated with a low-lying placenta or placenta praevia. In type II vasa praevia the fetally derived vessels connect to the placenta from a succenturiate or accessory lobe.
You're Reading a Preview
Become a Clinical Tree membership for Full access and enjoy Unlimited articles
If you are a member. Log in here