Sonographic cervical volumetry in higher order multiple gestation

Objective:The aim of this study of multifetal pregnancies was the compariso n of three-dimensional (3D) volumetry of the cervix, conventional sonograph ic cervical length measurement and clinical assessment. Methods 10 mothers were investigated in an observational study between 5/1999 and 9/2000. A to tal of 34 consecutive 2D-and 3D-transabdominal ultrasound measurements were performed. Results: Volumetry of the cervix was possible in all 34 exams. 2D-cervical length assessment could not be obtained in 6% because the prese nting fetal part obstructed the sonographic plane. Both methods allowed equ al judgement of the configuration of the cervix. A significant correlation was found between mean 2D-cervical length (28.7 mm, 7.7 SD) and mean cervic al volume (30.0 cm(3), 16.0 SD). Parity, subjective preterm labor or need o f tocolytics showed no correlation with any biometrical parameter studied. Conclusion: Volumetry was superior for the assessment of cervical biometry and conformation in women when the transabdominal 2D-plane was obstructed. When cervical length was obtainable by a conventional scan, the technically more complex 3D-imaging did not provide further information. Copyright (C) 2001 S. Karger AG, Basel.