14 Jul Laparoscopic Cervical Cerclage

Cervical Cerclage is a process that can save your baby. Now that you know you have cervical incompetence, it’s time to talk about treatment options. There are many different approaches for treatment of incompetent cervix that is being adopted by doctors across the globe so that women can carry their babies to term.

A cerclage is a surgical procedure performed on pregnant women who is diagnosed with incompetent cervix. It is usually performed between 12 and 24 weeks of pregnancy. There are two ways to perform the surgery  – either transvaginally (TVC – through the vagina) or trans abdominally (TAC – through the abdomen). Laparoscopic approach for placement of cervical cerclage suture is also increasingly being performed across the globe and with good results.

What is laparoscopic Cervical Cerclage?

With the advancement in the field of laparoscopic surgery a new approach to cervical cerclage placement is developed. The cervical cerclage that is done laparoscopically offers the advantage of reduced blood loss, reduced postoperative pain, and fewer adhesions, as well as reduced length of stay at the hospital and overall recovery time is also fast. Laparoscopic cerclage can be placed during pregnancy or as an interval procedure. Dr. Manavita Mahajan, gynaecologist in Gurgaon at Triveni Obstetrics & Gynaecology Clinic has specialization in performing cervical stitch and provides counselling regarding indications and treatment options for cervical incompetence.

Are there any risks associated with a cerclage?

As with any medical or surgical procedure, there are risks associated with placement of any type of cerclage. However, the overall risk of complications with cerclage placement remains low.

An occasional patient may experience premature rupture of membranes and deliver prematurely and this is usually seen in cases where emergency cerclage is being done. The complication rates are lower in well-planned elective cases.

 What is the current recommendation for cerclage?

A cervical cerclage is recommended for women with:

• A record of one or more second trimester pregnancy loss with painless cervical expansion
• Painless cervical dilation on physical examination in the second trimester
• Both a history of spontaneous preterm birth (before 34 weeks gestation) and a short cervix (less than 25 mm) prior to 24 weeks gestation

What are the indications for laparoscopic cervical cerclage?

• Women whose TVC placed around the cervix in the previous pregnancy failed are the candidates for laparoscopic cervical cerclage.
• Women in whom the cervix is very small as a result of previous surgery on cervix.

It is not offered to all the women with cervical incompetence. If you think you might be a candidate for cervical cerclage, talk to your gynaecologist so that you both can find a common ground. So, get answers to all your queries by scheduling an appointment with Dr. Manavita Mahajan today at Triveni Obstetrics & Gynaecology Clinic.