Voiding cystourethrography

Vasa Praevia is a rare but potentially fatal condition that occurs during pregnancy. It is characterized by fetal blood vessels crossing or running near the internal os of the cervix. These vessels, unprotected by the umbilical cord or placental tissue, are at risk of rupture when the supporting membranes rupture, as they are unsupported by the umbilical cord or placental tissue.

Causes

Vasa Praevia can be caused by Velamentous cord insertion, Bilobed placenta, or Succenturiate-lobed placenta. These conditions can result in the fetal blood vessels being in the lower uterine segment, where they may be in the path of the delivering fetus.

Diagnosis

Vasa Praevia can be diagnosed through Ultrasound with color Doppler. This method can accurately identify the condition in most cases. However, due to the rarity of the condition, routine screening is not typically performed.

Treatment

The primary treatment for Vasa Praevia is delivery of the baby via Caesarean section. This is typically performed at around 35 weeks of gestation, or earlier if the membranes rupture. After delivery, the baby may require a Blood transfusion due to blood loss.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and treatment, the prognosis for Vasa Praevia is excellent. However, if the condition is not diagnosed, and the blood vessels rupture, it can lead to fetal death.

See Also

• Placenta Praevia
• Placental Abruption
• Pregnancy Complications