Intra- and Early Postpartum Ultrasonography

Abstract

The objective of this article is to review current literature pertaining to intra- and early postpartum sonography. All the manuscripts published in the English language regarding this topic were selected from a MEDLINE search from 1966 through August 1997. Additional sources were identified through cross-referencing. Currently, intra- and early postpartum sonography may be performed for either maternal or fetal indications. Maternal indications include cervical assessment in preterm labor/rupture of membranes, assessment of the lower uterine segment, size and position of uterine fibroids, guided-placement of central venous or pulmonary artery catheters, detection of intraoperative venous air embolism, deep venous thrombosis, assist management of the third-stage of labor, postpartum hemorrhage or febrile morbidity. Fetal indications include an anatomical survey in patients presenting without prenatal care, verification of fetal presentation, estimated fetal weight, assessment of the breech-presenting fetus, external cephalic version, management of delivery of the second-twin, and internal podalic version. Doppler flow velocimetry is a useful tool in depicting both maternal and fetal intrapartum physiologic changes. We conclude that intra- and early postpartum sonography is an established versatile diagnostic and interventional-guiding modality for many obstetric conditions and should be readily available on labor and delivery suites.

Management of the Third Stage Of Labor: An Evidence‐Based Approach

“…Studies suggest when excessive bleeding is present, or a prolonged third stage occurs, an ultrasonic scan can aid in clinical diagnosis. Sonography can confirm or refute whether the bleeding is intrauterine, as from a partially detached placenta, or help diagnose placental abnormalities such as an accreta (44,45). This development may be significant in the future.…”

Umbilical Cord Stricture in a 21-Week Fetus

“…Umbilical cord ultrasonography and Doppler flow velocimetry have recently shown promise in the antenatal detection of umbilical cord morphologic abnormalities. 5,6 However, the utility of these techniques early in gestation, when the complications of cord twisting often occur, is questionable. 7 A sudden change in fetal activity or physiologic signs warrants consideration of this uncommon condition.…”

Added Value of Multiplanar Reformation in the Multidetector CT Evaluation of the Female Pelvis: A Pictorial Review

“…US is typically the initial imaging modality of choice for detecting rupture and is useful in detecting intra-or extraperitoneal hematoma (34). However, although US is useful in depicting the indirect findings of rupture, it may not delineate the location and size of the myometrial defect.…”