Vasa previa

Vasa Previa

Vasa previa is a pregnancy complication in which fetal blood vessels cross or run near the internal os of the uterus. These vessels, contained within the umbilical cord or placenta, are at risk of rupture when the supporting membranes rupture, as they are unsupported by the wharton's jelly of the umbilical cord and are vulnerable to compression, tearing, and rupture.

Signs and Symptoms

Vasa previa can be symptomless and hard to diagnose. However, when symptoms do occur, they can include vaginal bleeding and abnormal fetal heart rate. The bleeding is not maternal, but fetal, and the condition can lead to fetal death if not diagnosed and managed promptly.

Causes

The exact cause of vasa previa is unknown, but it is associated with bipartite placenta, succenturiate-lobed placenta, velamentous cord insertion, and in vitro fertilization.

Diagnosis

Vasa previa can be diagnosed through ultrasound or MRI. The use of color Doppler ultrasound can increase the detection rate.

Treatment

The primary treatment for vasa previa is cesarean section. If vasa previa is diagnosed before labor, a planned cesarean section is performed at around 35 weeks of gestation.

Prognosis

With prompt diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for vasa previa is good. However, if not diagnosed and managed promptly, it can lead to fetal death.

See Also

• Placenta previa
• Placental abruption
• Velamentous cord insertion

References

Vasa previa Resources
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