Journal of pregnancy
Ultrasound-Indicated Versus Physical Examination-Indicated Cerclage in Twin Pregnancies Between 24 and 27 + 6 Weeks: An Exploratory Observational Analysis of Pregnancy and Neonatal Outcomes
By Zhao P, Wang X, Zhang L and 6 others.
Abstract
Background
Recent advancements in assisted reproductive technology and delayed parenthood have led to a surge in twin pregnancies, with a high incidence of preterm birth (PTB) due to cervical insufficiency. Current guidelines recommend cervical cerclage for twin pregnancies before 24 weeks; however, data on cerclage efficacy beyond 24 weeks is scarce.
Objective
This exploratory, hypothesis-generating study is aimed at examining the associations of cervical cerclage on pregnancy duration and neonatal outcomes in twin pregnancies with a short cervix between 24 and 27 + 6 weeks.
Methods
This retrospective cohort study, conducted between July 1991 and July 2023 at Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, involved twin pregnancies with a short cervix (≤ 25 mm) during the gestational period ranging from 24 weeks to 27 + 6 weeks. Skilled obstetricians performed cervical cerclage. Data on maternal and neonatal outcomes were collected and analyzed using statistical tests, with statistical significance set at p < 0.05.