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This article presents the findings of a national audit conducted in France to assess the quality of ultrasound practices related to fetal heart assessment in obstetrical ultrasounds. The researchers used deep learning tools to analyze 9,626 anonymized ultrasound files, consisting of 228,036 images at T2 and 161,535 images at T3, performed by 912 operators across the country. The results showed that 37.5% of the files were complete, with significant differences between regions. The average number of images per scan and the qualitative assessment of exam quality also varied significantly between regions. The study concludes that there is room for improvement in the overall quality of ultrasound reports. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Academic advancement of the midwifery profession highlights the need to establish standardized qualifications in obstetric ultrasound diagnosis, being a central part of prenatal care. Thus, introduction of an evidence-based training program is warranted. We aimed to reviewed curriculum designs used in midwifery ultrasound education. Methods: A systematic literature research was conducted. Embase, PubMed and Google Scholar database was reviewed for publications using the terms "[midwife], [midwives], [midwifery students], [obstetric ultrasound], [midwife sonographer] and [education], [teaching], [program], [course], [curriculum] and [learning]". Papers with full description of curriculum designs or educational programs on obstetrical ultrasound for midwives were included and scrutinized against pre-defined criteria according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes) scheme. Results: 29 publications were included. Studies demonstrated a significant disparity according to course concepts being used. Differing parameters included: Duration, structure, learning approaches, course content, examination concepts and target groups (practising midwives vs. midwives in education). Conclusion: An evidence-based ultrasound educational program for midwives remains to be developed, including further educational guidelines. Clinical applications by midwives, as well as the distinctions from medical practise, particularly in terms of legal considerations, needs to be defined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In Bucharest University Emergency Hospital every day we deal with difficult cases either presented per primam in our setting or, even more difficult situations, cases that were intended to be treated in other hospitals but due to lack of infrastructure are sent towards our multidisciplinary hospital, as a final stop. Conditions that our teams have to deal in a very restricted amount of time in the Emergency Room are: submucous myoma with heavy bleeding acquired uterine arteriovenous fistulae, ovarian ruptured cyst, ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome, adnexal torsion, tuboovarian abscess, classical tubal ectopic pregnancy, Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy, molar pregnancy, incomplete abortion, ruptured uterus post minimally invasive procedures performed before pregnancy, placental abruption, placenta praevia with heavy bleeding, and the PAS – Placenta Accreta Spectrum. All these conditions recquire a rapid differential diagnosis where ultrasonography is useful in adopting a tailored management either conservative or radical, in avoidance of haemorhagic accidents or even death and, when needed, in fertility sparing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the frequency of atypical chromosomal and submicroscopic anomalies, as well as fetal structural abnormalities, observed on first-trimester ultrasound scan in fetuses with nuchal translucency (NT) thickness > 99th centile, in order to evaluate the suitability of using standard cell-free DNA (cfDNA) testing as the sole screening test in these pregnancies.Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of 226 fetuses with NT > 99th centile at 11-14 weeks' gestation, between January 2013 and December 2017, in a clinical setting in which greater than 95% of pregnant women receive first-trimester combined screening. All patients underwent genetic testing by means of quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction and chromosomal microarray analysis, mainly in chorionic villus samples. We assessed the theoretical yield of two cfDNA testing models, targeted cfDNA (chromosomes 21, 18 and 13) and extended cfDNA (chromosomes 21, 18, 13 and sex chromosomes), and compared it with that of cytogenetic testing and ultrasound assessment in the first and second or third trimesters.Results: In the 226 fetuses analyzed, cytogenetic testing revealed 84 (37%) anomalies, including 68 typical aneuploidies (involving chromosomes 13, 18 or 21), six sex chromosome aneuploidies (four cases of monosomy X and two of trisomy X), three clinically relevant atypical chromosomal anomalies (one trisomy 22, one trisomy 21 mosaicism and one unbalanced translocation), five submicroscopic pathogenic variants and two cases with Noonan syndrome. Targeted and extended cfDNA testing would miss at least 12% (10/84) and 19% (16/84), respectively, of genetic anomalies, accounting for 4.4% and 7.1% of the fetuses with an increased NT, respectively. Finally, of the 142 fetuses with no identified genetic anomaly, a major fetal malformation was observed in 15 (10.6%) fetuses at the early anomaly scan, and in 19 (13.4%) in the second or third trimester.Conclusions: cfDNA does not appear to be the appropriate genetic test in fetuses with NT > 99th centile, given that it would miss 12-19% of genetic anomalies in this group. Additionally, first-trimester ultrasound will identify a major structural abnormality in 11% of the fetuses with NT > 99th centile and no genetic anomaly. Copyright © 2019 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article, published in the journal Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology, presents the findings of a randomized controlled trial conducted at the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‐sen University. The study aimed to investigate the benefits of using an artificial intelligence (AI) system to enhance the efficiency of obstetric scan training. The results showed that the AI-assisted training group required fewer cycles to meet quality requirements compared to the conventional training group. Additionally, the AI-assisted group exhibited superior ability in acquiring standard views in the third and fourth stages of training. The study suggests that the use of an AI-assisted system has the potential to improve training effectiveness, especially for trainees without prior experience in obstetric scans. [Extracted from the article]

We report the case of a massive fetal cardiac rhabdomyoma recently occurred at our clinic. A woman at 23 weeks of gestational age was referred to our center for a fetal cardiac echogenic mass of 26 mm detected at the second-trimester screening ultrasound. During pregnancy, though, the mass progressively increased its dimensions until reaching 48 mm in diameter at 37 weeks of gestation. Fetal echoencephalography and brain magnetic resonance did not show any further fetal anomalies, but molecular genetic testing at amniocentesis revealed a heterozygotic missense variant of gene TSC2 associated with Tuberous Sclerosis. The mass was therefore most likely preferable to a single large rhabdomyoma of gradually increasing dimensions. The baby was delivered at term with a cesarean section. Because of the rhabdomyoma remarkable size and newborn ECG electrical alterations, postnatal therapies with Flecainide and Everolimus were started. Everolimus treatment led to a significant and progressive reduction in the cardiac mass volume. This case, therefore, shows the efficacy of what seems to be a promising treatment in pediatric patients with large rhabdomyomas. Rhabdomyomas may present with different features: most often they appear as multiple masses along the interventricular sept, but they may also appear as a single large thoracic mass. When a rhabdomyoma is suspected, genetic counseling is recommended. Both before and after birth, a multidisciplinary approach is useful to choose the appropriate therapy for the newborn. mTOR inhibitors therapies look like promising therapeutic approaches to stimulate the involution of rhabdomyomas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: While there is an increasing interest in incorporating ultrasound in undergraduate medical education and the use of student tutors in conveying this medical skill to assist faculty members, little is known about undergraduate ultrasound teaching in obstetrics and gynecology. Methods: After a 3 week training of the student tutors, the student tutors joined an undergraduate ultrasound educational program to teach practical round students. After being certified, the student tutors organized a pre-test, gave a presentation about ultrasound, and then supervised the hands on ultrasound course under faculty staff supervision for round students. Finally, the practical round students had to answer a post-test with image recognition. The practical round students had to evaluate the course using a Likert scale. Results: 111 students joined this ultrasound course. The objective theoretical and practical multiple-choice questions' (MCQ) test showed a statistically significant improvement (50 vs. 90%, p < 0.05). The practical round students expressed a high acceptance (Likert 1.7) and subjective medical skill learning (Likert 1.8). The students also positively graded the student tutors (Likert 1.3). Conclusion: Student tutor-based undergraduate obstetrical and gynecological ultrasound course is a useful method to teach a medical skill and is well accepted by students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article announces presentations and awards given during the 28th World Congress on Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology held on October 20-24, 2018 in Singapore. The Ian Donald Gold Medal was presented to professor Jan Deprest. Free communications presented at the congress that are acknowledged as best presentations in their categories including top abstract winner, best oral communications, and young investigator award winner, are cited.

A certain level of theoretical knowledge is required when performing basic obstetrical and gynecological ultrasound. To assess the adequacy of trainees' basic theoretical knowledge, the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology (ISUOG) has developed a theoretical test of 49 Multiple Choice Questionnaire (MCQ) items for their basic training courses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To ascertain the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in detecting abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) during the first trimester of pregnancy (11-14 weeks' gestation) in women at risk for this condition.Methods: This was a retrospective analysis of data collected prospectively from women at risk for AIP based upon the presence of at least one prior Cesarean section (CS) and/or uterine surgery and placenta previa, who had ultrasound assessment for AIP at the time of the 11-14-week scan. The ultrasound signs explored in the present study were: loss of the clear zone, placental lacunae, bladder wall interruption and uterovesical hypervascularity. The potential of ultrasound and different ultrasound signs to predict the different types of AIP was assessed by computing summary estimates of sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and positive (LR+) and negative (LR-) likelihood ratios.Results: One hundred and eighty-eight women with placenta previa and at least one previous CS or uterine surgery were included in the study. All the explored ultrasound signs were associated significantly with the occurrence of AIP. Overall, when at least one ultrasound sign was used to make the diagnosis, ultrasound had a sensitivity of 84.3% (95% CI, 74.7-91.4%), specificity of 61.9% (95% CI, 51.9-71.2%), DOR of 8.6 (95% CI, 4.1-19.3), LR+ of 2.2 (95% CI, 1.7-2.9) and LR- of 0.3 (95% CI, 0.1-0.4) in detecting AIP. Using two ultrasound signs to label a case as positive increased the diagnostic accuracy in terms of specificity, although it did not affect sensitivity. Among the different ultrasound signs, loss of the clear zone had a sensitivity of 84.3% (95% CI, 74.7-91.4%) and a specificity of 81.9% (95% CI, 73.2-88.7%) in detecting AIP, while sensitivities for placental lacunae and bladder wall interruption were 78.3% (95% CI, 67.9-86.6%) and 75.9% (95% CI, 65.3-84.6%), respectively, and specificities were 81.0% (95% CI, 72.1-88.0%) and 99.1% (95% CI, 94.8-100.0%), respectively. The optimal combination of sensitivity and specificity was achieved when at least two imaging signs of AIP were used in the diagnostic algorithm.Conclusions: AIP can be detected from the first trimester of pregnancy in women at risk for this condition, and ultrasound performed between 11 and 14 weeks' gestation has an overall good diagnostic accuracy for detecting all types of AIP. However, these findings are applicable only to women with placenta previa and prior uterine scar. Copyright © 2018 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Around the world, ultrasound in the specialty of obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn) has been performed and interpreted by a spectrum of healthcare providers: obstetrician-gynecologists, radiologists, sonographers, midwives and nurses. Depending on training and tradition, and practice differs not only between countries, but even within countries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: Routine third‐trimester ultrasound (T3US) is not recommended in evidence‐based clinical guidelines despite occurring frequently. This study investigated the incidence, indication for, results and follow‐up needs of T3US performed at a Sydney metropolitan teaching hospital. Methods: Audit of T3US amongst singleton pregnancies at St George Hospital, Sydney: retrospective review October–December 2012, prospective cohort with clinician survey February–April 2013. Data included are as follows: maternal demographics, aneuploidy screening results, T3US ordering patterns, results, follow‐up management and pregnancy outcomes. Comparison of demographic characteristics and pregnancy outcomes was performed for women undergoing T3US vs. no T3US. Results: One thousand and thirty‐five women (623 retrospective, 412 prospective) were included, of whom 560 (54%) received at least one T3US. Characteristics of retrospective and prospective cohorts were similar, so combined data are presented. Most initial T3USs were for valid indications (463 of 560; 83%), most frequently low‐lying placenta at morphology (19%), reduced fundal height (10%) and to follow‐up fetal concerns at morphology ultrasound (9%). One hundred and sixty‐two out of 560 (29%) of initial T3US were not normal, predominantly related to accelerated or reduced fetal growth. Detection of SGA babies was significantly higher in the T3US group (32% SGA babies detected vs. 0% if no T3US, P < 0.001). However, overall detection rates remained low, with 5.2% and 3.0% of babies who had a T3US unexpectedly <10th and <3rd centile birthweight, respectively. Discussion/Conclusion: The majority of women received at least one, usually indicated, T3US in routine practice at our metropolitan Sydney hospital. This may impact obstetric care, resource allocation and patient well‐being. Detection of small for gestational age fetuses was poor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents the findings of a retrospective analysis of prenatal ultrasound reports in the South France region for newborns and children diagnosed with congenital heart disease (CHD) postnatally. The study aimed to assess the quality of the ultrasound images and their relationship to the type of heart disease. The analysis revealed that while the intrinsic image quality was satisfactory, the quality of obtaining anatomical landmarks was suboptimal. Additionally, 15% of CHDs could have been identified through better image quality. The study highlights the importance of improving the quality of prenatal ultrasound for the early detection of CHD. [Extracted from the article]

This article discusses a case study involving a 34-year-old pregnant woman with diabetes who was referred for a fetal echocardiography evaluation. The ultrasound revealed abnormal outflow tracts, indicating a suspicion of transposition of the great arteries (TGA). The diagnosis was confirmed by the anatomical characteristics of the arteries. The researchers used 3D ultrasound imaging and software to create virtual and physical models of the fetal heart, which were used as additional diagnostic tools for counseling and surgical planning. The male neonate was born by Caesarean section and underwent surgical correction for TGA. Currently, he is in good health with mild aortic insufficiency. [Extracted from the article]

Objective: Laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy is becoming an increasingly popular surgical approach for repair of apical vaginal prolapse. The aim of this study was to document the postoperative anterior mesh position after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy and to investigate the relationship between mesh location and anterior compartment support.Methods: This was an external audit of patients who underwent laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy for apical prolapse ≥ Stage 2 or advanced prolapse ≥ Stage 3, between January 2005 and June 2012. All patients were assessed with a standardized interview, clinical assessment using the International Continence Society Pelvic Organ Prolapse quantification and four-dimensional transperineal ultrasound to evaluate pelvic organ support and mesh location. Mesh position was assessed with respect to the symphysis pubis whilst distal mesh mobility was assessed using the formula √[(XValsalva - Xrest )2 + (YValsalva - Yrest )2 ], where X is the horizontal distance and Y is the vertical distance between the mesh and the inferior symphyseal margin, measured at rest and on Valsalva.Results: Ninety-seven women were assessed at a mean follow-up of 3.01 (range, 0.13-6.87) years after laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy, 88% (85/97) of whom considered themselves to be cured or improved, and none had required reoperation. On clinical examination, prolapse recurrence in the apical compartment was not diagnosed in any patient; however, 60 (62%) had recurrence in the anterior compartment and 43 (44%) in the posterior compartment. On ultrasound examination, mesh was visualized in the anterior compartment in 60 patients. Both mesh position and mobility on Valsalva were significantly associated with recurrent cystocele on clinical and on ultrasound assessment (all P < 0.01). For every mm that the mesh was located further from the bladder neck on Valsalva, the likelihood of cystocele recurrence increased by 6-7%.Conclusion: At an average follow-up of 3 years, laparoscopic sacrocolpopexy was highly effective for apical support; however, cystocele recurrence was common despite an emphasis on anterior mesh extension. Prolapse recurrence seemed to be related to mesh position and mobility, suggesting that the lower the mesh is from the bladder neck, the lower the likelihood of anterior compartment prolapse recurrence. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ultrasound imaging is an essential component of healthcare services. This study sought to explore perceptions of access, and factors which shape access, to ultrasound imaging in two northern, remote, Indigenous communities in Canada. Using interpretive description as a methodological approach and a multi-dimensional conceptualisation of access to care as a theoretical framework, 15 semi-structured interviews were conducted in the northern Canadian communities of Stony Rapids and Black Lake, Saskatchewan. All participants had an obstetrical or non-obstetrical ultrasound exam performed in the past 10 years. Interviews were audio recorded and interview transcripts were analysed using constant comparative analysis. Geographic isolation from imaging facilities was a central barrier to participants accessing ultrasound imaging. Other barriers became apparent when participants had to travel for ultrasound, including fear of air travel, isolation from family, financial means, and unfamiliarity with larger cities. Barriers such as family and work responsibilities were exacerbated by the barrier of geography. Participants overcame these barriers as they were motivated by potential diagnostic benefits of ultrasound imaging. This study highlights disparities in access to ultrasound for northern, remote, Indigenous populations. Future efforts to improve access to imaging should consider barriers of distance to imaging facilities and strategies to bridge these barriers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Severe environmental pollution and contaminants left in the environment due to the abuse of chemicals, such as methylmercury, are associated with an increasing number of embryonic disorders. Ultrasound imaging has been widely used to investigate embryonic development malformation and dysorganoplasia in both research and clinics. However, this technique is limited by its low contrast and lacking functional parameters such as the ability to measure blood oxygen saturation (Sa[O.sub.2]) and hemoglobin content (HbT) in tissues, measures that could be early vital indicators for embryonic development abnormality. Herein, we proposed combining two highly complementary techniques into a photoacoustic-ultrasound (PA-US) dual-modality imaging approach to noninvasively detect early mouse embryo abnormalities caused by methylmercury chloride (MMC) in real time. Objectives: This study aimed to assess the use of PA-US dual-modality imaging for noninvasive detection of embryonic toxicity at different stages of growth following prenatal MMC exposure. Additionally, we compared the PA-US imagining results to traditional histological methods to determine whether this noninvasive method could detect early developmental defects in utero. Methods: Different dosages of MMC were administrated to pregnant mice by gavage to establish models of different levels of embryonic malformation. Ultrasound, photoacoustic signal intensity (PSI), blood oxygen saturation (Sa[O.sub.2]), and hemoglobin content (HbT) were quantified in all experimental groups. Furthermore, the embryos were sectioned and examined for pathological changes. Results: Using PA-US imaging, we detected differences in PSI, Sa[O.sub.2], HbT, and heart volume at embryonic day (E)14.5 and E11.5 for low and high dosages of MMC, respectively. More important, our results showed that differences between control and treated embryos identified by in utero PAUS imaging were consistent with those identified in ex vivo embryos using histological methods. Conclusion: Our results suggest that noninvasive dual-modality PA-US is a promising strategy for detecting developmental toxicology in the uterus. Overall, this study presents a new approach for detecting embryonic toxicities, which could be crucial in clinics when diagnosing aberrant embryonic development. https://doi.org/10.1289/EHP8907, Introduction Ultrasound imaging has become ubiquitous in obstetrics departments to monitor the development and well-being of the fetus. Although ultrasound waves can penetrate several centimeters of tissue, there is a [...]

Background: Ultrasound is a tool of increasing importance in maternity care. Midwives have a central position in the care of pregnant women. However, studies regarding their experiences of the use of ultrasound in this context are limited. The purpose of this study was to explore Australian midwives' experiences and views of the role of obstetric ultrasound particularly in relation to clinical management of complicated pregnancy, and situations where maternal and fetal health interests conflict. Methods: A qualitative study was undertaken in Victoria, Australia in 2012, based on six focus group discussions with midwives (n = 37) working in antenatal and intrapartum care, as part of the CROss-Country Ultrasound Study (CROCUS). Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. Results: One overarching theme emerged from the analysis: Obstetric ultrasound - a routine tool with far-reaching influence, and it was built on three categories. First, the category'Experiencing pros and cons of ultrasound' highlighted that ultrasound was seen as having many advantages; however, it was also seen as contributing to increased medicalisation of pregnancy, to complex and sometimes uncertain decision-making and to parental anxiety. Second, 'Viewing ultrasound as a normalised and unquestioned examination' illuminated how the use of ultrasound has become normalised and unquestioned in health care and in wider society. Midwives were concerned that this impacts negatively on informed consent processes, and at a societal level, to threaten acceptance of human variation and disability. Third, 'Reflecting on the fetus as a person in relation to the pregnant woman' described views on that ultrasound has led to increased 'personification' of the fetus, and that women often put fetal health interests ahead of their own. Conclusions: The results reflect the significant influence ultrasound has had in maternity care and highlights ethical and professional challenges that midwives face in their daily working lives concerning its use. Further discussion about the use of ultrasound is needed, both among health professionals and in the community, in order to protect women's rights to informed decision-making and autonomy in pregnancy and childbirth and to curb unnecessary medicalisation of pregnancy. Midwives' experiences and views play an essential role in such discussions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate time intervals of the ductus venosus ( DV) flow velocity waveform ( FVW) and those of the cardiac cycle that correspond with each DV-FVW component in fetuses with intrauterine growth restriction ( IUGR) due to placental insufficiency. Methods Women with a pregnancy complicated by IUGR were recruited into the study, as was a normal control group. Time intervals for systolic (S) and diastolic (D) components were measured in DV-FVW as follows: SDV, from the nadir of the a-wave during atrial contraction to the nadir between the S-wave and D-wave; DDV, from the nadir between S-wave and D-wave to the nadir of the a-wave. Regarding cardiac cycles, the following variables were measured from ventricular inflow through the tricuspid valve ( TV) and mitral valve ( MV): STV and SMV, from the second peak of ventricular inflow caused by atrial contraction (A-wave) to the opening of the atrioventricular valve; DTV and DMV, from the opening of the atrioventricular valve to the peak of the A-wave. In the IUGR group, only the last examination performed within 1 week of delivery was used for analysis. All variables were analyzed statistically using Z-scores. Results Data were obtained from 249 normal fetuses and 26 fetuses with IUGR. Compared to normal fetuses, SDV showed a significant decrease ( P < 0.001), while DDV showed a significant increase ( P < 0.001) in the IUGR group. Regarding cardiac cycles, STV and SMV showed significant decreases ( P = 0.014 and P < 0.001, respectively) and DTV and DMV showed significant increases ( P = 0.008 and P = 0.002, respectively) in fetuses with IUGR. Conclusion Time-interval alterations of DV-FVW in growth-restricted fetuses reflect the hemodynamic events caused by placental insufficiency. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To describe a method of quantifying the amount of liver herniation in fetuses with isolated congenital diaphragmatic hernia ( CDH) using two-dimensional ultrasonography and to correlate this finding with neonatal outcome. Methods Ultrasound images obtained from 77 consecutive fetuses that presented with isolated CDH between January 2004 and July 2012 were reviewed. Liver herniation and thoracic area were measured in a cross-sectional plane of the fetal chest at the level of the four-chamber view of the heart (the same section as is used to measure the lung area-to-head circumference ratio) and the ultrasound-derived liver-to-thoracic area ratio ( US-LiTR) was calculated by dividing the liver herniation area by the thoracic area. Receiver-operating characteristics ( ROC) curve analysis was used to evaluate the performance of US-LiTR in predicting neonatal outcome (survival to 6 months after delivery and need for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ( ECMO)). In addition, the US-LiTR was compared with the magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI)-derived volume ratio ( MRI-LiTR) and percentage of liver herniation ( MRI-% LH). Results The overall neonatal mortality in the 77 cases with isolated CDH was 20.8% (16/77). ECMO was needed in 35.5% (27/76) of the newborns, with a survival rate of 52%. The US-LiTR was associated statistically with mortality ( P < 0.01) and with the need for ECMO ( P < 0.01). Good correlations were observed between US-LiTR and MRI-LiTR ( r = 0.87; P < 0.001) and between US-LiTR and MRI-% LH ( r = 0.90; P < 0.001). Based on ROC curve analysis, all three parameters had similar accuracy in predicting mortality ( US-LiTR: area under the ROC curve ( AUC), 0.78 (95% CI, 0.65-0.92), P < 0.01; MRI-LiTR: AUC, 0.77 (95% CI, 0.63-0.90), P < 0.01; MRI-%LH: AUC, 0.79 (95% CI, 0.65-0.92), P < 0.01, respectively) as well as the need for ECMO ( US-LiTR: AUC, 0.72 (95% CI, 0.60-0.84), P < 0.01; MRI-LiTR: AUC, 0.73 (95% CI, 0.60-0.88), P < 0.01; MRI-% LH: AUC, 0.77 (95% CI, 0.64-0.89), P < 0.01, respectively). Conclusions Two-dimensional ultrasound measurement of the amount of liver herniation in fetuses with isolated CDH is feasible and demonstrates a predictive accuracy for neonatal outcome similar to that of MRI. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives To assess using fetal magnetic resonance imaging ( MRI) the relationship between the position of the stomach as well as the volume of herniation of organs into the thorax, and the observed-to-expected total fetal lung volume (o/e- TFLV), as a measure of pulmonary hypoplasia, in fetuses with isolated left-sided congenital diaphragmatic hernia ( LCDH). Methods This was a single-center retrospective study using archived MR images from fetuses > 20 weeks' gestation evaluated for isolated LCDH over an 11-year period between July 2002 and September 2013. We retrieved data on the gestational age at MRI, o/e- TFLV and liver position. Images were also reviewed by a single operator to determine retrospectively the position of the stomach as well as the proportion of the total thorax volume occupied by the herniated fetal liver, stomach and other viscera. Following confirmation of reproducibility, we assessed the correlation of intrathoracic organ volumes and stomach position with o/e- TFLV. Results The study included 205 fetuses which underwent a total of 259 MR examinations. The reproducibility of organ volume measurements was excellent (intraclass correlation coefficient range, 0.928-0.997). The average time spent to obtain intrathoracic organ volumes ranged from 2.28 to 5.13 min. Of all herniated organ-to-thoracic volume ratios, the liver-to-thoracic volume ratio had the strongest correlation with o/e- TFLV ( ρ = −0.429, P<0.0001). Stomach volume did not correlate, although, when categorized by the position and extent of stomach herniation, there was an inverse relationship to o/e- TFLV. No intrathoracic organ-to-thoracic volume ratio was related to gestational age. Conclusions We observed in fetuses with isolated LCDH an inverse relationship between lung volume and the amount of liver herniated as well as the position of the stomach in the chest. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objective To determine the most cost-effective timing of delivery in pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis, using a decision-analytic model. Methods We created a decision-analytic model to compare planned delivery at 35, 36, 37, 38 and 39 weeks' gestation. Outcomes considered were stillbirth, death within 1 year of birth and respiratory distress syndrome ( RDS). Probability estimates of events (stillbirth, complex gastroschisis and RDS for each gestational age at delivery and risk of death with simple and complex gastroschisis), utilities and costs assigned to the outcomes were obtained from the published literature. Cost analysis was assessed from a societal perspective, using a willingness-to-pay threshold of $100 000 per surviving infant. Outcomes and costs were considered throughout 1 year of postnatal life. Multiway sensitivity analysis was performed to address uncertainties in baseline assumptions. Results In the base-case analysis, delivery at 38 weeks' gestation was the most cost-effective strategy. Planned delivery at 35 weeks was associated with the fewest stillbirths and deaths within 1 year of delivery, owing largely to a lower ongoing risk of stillbirth. In Monte Carlo simulation when every variable was varied over its entire range, delivery at 38 weeks was cost-effective compared to delivery at 39 weeks in 76% of trials and delivery at 37 weeks was cost-effective in 69% of trials. Delivery at 38 weeks resulted in three additional cases of RDS for every 100 stillbirths or deaths within 1 year that were prevented. Conclusions For pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis, the most cost-effective timing of delivery is at 38 weeks. Few additional cases of RDS are caused for every one stillbirth or death within 1 year that was prevented with delivery at 37-38 weeks compared with at 39 weeks. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Objectives To evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of ultrasound in predicting the location of an intrauterine pregnancy before visualization of the yolk sac is possible. Methods This was a systematic review conducted in accordance with the PRISMA statement and registered with PROSPERO. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE and The Cochrane Library for relevant citations. Studies were selected in a two-stage process and their data extracted by two reviewers. Accuracy measures were calculated for each ultrasound sign, i.e. gestational sac, double decidual sac sign, intradecidual sign, chorionic rim sign and yolk sac. Individual study estimates were plotted in summary receiver-operating characteristics curves and forest plots for examination of heterogeneity. The quality of included studies was assessed. Results Seventeen studies including 2564 women were selected from 19 959 potential papers. Following meta-analysis, the presence of a gestational sac on ultrasound examination was found to predict an intrauterine pregnancy with a sensitivity of 52.8% (95% CI, 38.2-66.9%) and specificity of 97.6% (95% CI, 94.3-99.0%). The corresponding performance of the double decidual sac sign, intradecidual sign, chorionic rim sign and yolk sac were: 81.8% (95% CI, 68.1-90.4%) and 97.3% (95% CI, 76.1-99.8%); 66.1% (95% CI, 58.9-72.8%) and 100% (95% CI, 91.0-100%); 79.9% (95% CI, 73.0-85.7%) and 97.1% (95% CI, 89.9-99.6%); and 42.2% (95% CI, 27.7-57.9%) and 100% (95% CI, 54.1-100%), respectively. Conclusion Visualization of a gestational sac, double decidual sac sign, intradecidual sign or chorionic rim sign increases the probability of an intrauterine pregnancy but is not as accurate for diagnosis as the detection of the yolk sac. However, the findings were limited by the small number and poor quality of the studies included and heterogeneity in the index test and reference standard. Copyright © 2014 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Placental malaria is a known risk factor for small for gestational age (SGA) neonates. However, currently utilized international and African birthweight standards have not controlled for placental malaria and/or lack obstetrical ultrasound dating. We developed a neonatal birthweight standard based on obstetrically dated pregnancies that excluded individuals with clinical malaria, asymptomatic parasitemia, and placental malaria infection. We hypothesized that current curves underestimate true ideal birthweight and the prevalence of SGA. Study design: Participants were pooled from two double-blind randomized control trials of intermittent preventive therapy during pregnancy in Uganda. HIV-negative women without comorbidities were enrolled from 12–20 weeks gestation. Gestational age was confirmed by ultrasound dating. Women were followed through pregnancy and delivery for clinical malaria, asymptomatic parasitemia, and placental malaria. Women without malaria, asymptomatic parasitemia, or placental malaria formed the malaria negative cohort and generated the Ugandan birthweight standard. The Ugandan standard was then used to estimate the prevalence of SGA neonates in the malaria positive cohort. These findings were compared to international (Williams, World Health Organization (WHO), and INTERGROWTH-21st) and regional standards (Tanzanian and Malawi). Results: 926 women had complete delivery data; 393 (42.4%) met criteria for the malaria negative cohort and 533 (57.6%) were malaria positive. The Ugandan standard diagnosed SGA in 17.1% of malaria positive neonates; similar to the INTERGROWTH-21st and Schmiegelow curves. The WHO curve diagnosed SGA in significantly more neonates (32.1%, p = <0.001), and the Malawi curve diagnosed SGA in significantly fewer neonates (8.3%, p <0.001). Conclusion: Exclusion of women with subclinical placental malaria in malaria-endemic areas created birth weight norms at higher values and increased the detection of SGA. Birth weight standards that fail to account for endemic illness may underestimate the true growth potential of healthy neonates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Estrogen is a well-established risk factor for various cancers. It causes endometrial proliferation, which is assessed routinely as endometrial thickness (ET) using transvaginal ultrasound (TVS). Only one previous study, restricted to endometrial and breast cancer, has considered ET and the risk of non-endometrial cancer. The aim of this study was to explore the association between baseline and serial ET measurements and nine non-endometrial hormone-sensitive cancers, in postmenopausal women, using contemporary statistical methodology that attempts to minimize the biases typical of endogenous serial data.Methods: This was a cohort study nested within the UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening (UKCTOCS). In the ultrasound arm of UKCTOCS, 50639 postmenopausal women, aged 50-74, underwent annual TVS examination, of whom 38 105 had a valid ET measurement, no prior hysterectomy and complete covariate data, and were included in this study. All women were followed up through linkage to national cancer registries. The effect of ET on the risk of six estrogen-dependent cancers (breast, ovarian, colorectal, bladder, lung and pancreatic) was assessed using joint models for longitudinal biomarker and time-to-event data, and Cox models were used to assess the association between baseline ET measurement and these six cancers in addition to liver cancer, gastric cancer and non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (NHL). All models were adjusted for current hormone-replacement therapy (HRT) use, body mass index, age at last menstrual period, parity and oral contraceptive pill use.Results: The 38 105 included women had a combined total of 267 567 (median, 8; interquartile range, 5-9) valid ET measurements. During a combined total of 407 838 (median, 10.9) years of follow-up, 1398 breast, 351 endometrial, 381 lung, 495 colorectal, 222 ovarian, 94 pancreatic, 79 bladder, 62 gastric, 38 liver cancers and 52 NHLs were registered. Using joint models, a doubling of ET increased significantly the risk of breast (hazard ratio (HR), 1.21; 95% CI, 1.09-1.36; P = 0.001), ovarian (HR, 1.39; 95% CI, 1.06-1.82; P = 0.018) and lung (HR, 1.25; 95% CI, 1.02-1.54; P = 0.036) cancers. There were no statistically significant associations between ET and the remaining six cancers.Conclusion: Postmenopausal women with high/increasing ET on TVS are at increased risk of breast, ovarian and lung cancer. It is important that clinicians are aware of these risks, as TVS is a common investigation. © 2019 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of the International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: HIV-infected women on antiretroviral therapy have a higher risk of preterm birth than HIV-uninfected women in Botswana. To better understand the mechanism for preterm birth among HIV-infected women, we evaluated whether mid-trimester cervical length differed by HIV status as cervical shortening is associated with an increased risk for preterm birth. Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study among pregnant women receiving care at the Scottish Livingstone Hospital in Molepolole, Botswana. Consecutive women referred for routine obstetrical ultrasound were consented and enrolled if between 22w0d and 24w6d by ultrasound biometry. Blinded to maternal HIV status, an obstetrician measured transvaginal cervical length using standardized criteria. Cervical length, as well as the proportion of women with a short cervix (<25mm), were compared among HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women. The acceptability of transvaginal ultrasound was also evaluated. Results: Between April 2016 and April 2017, 853 women presenting for obstetric ultrasound were screened, 187 (22%) met eligibility criteria, and 179 (96%) were enrolled. Of those enrolled, 50 (28%) were HIV-infected (86% on antiretroviral therapy), 127 (71%) were HIV-uninfected, and 2 (1%) had unknown HIV status. There was no significant difference in mean cervical length between HIV-infected and HIV-uninfected women (32mm vs 31mm, p = 0.21), or in the proportion with a short cervix (10% vs 14%, p = 0.44). Acceptability data was available for 115 women who underwent a transvaginal ultrasound exam. Of these, 112 of 115 (97%) women deemed the transvaginal scan acceptable. Conclusions: The increased risk of preterm birth observed among HIV-infected women receiving antiretroviral therapy in Botswana is unlikely associated with mid-trimester cervical shortening. Further research is needed to understand the underlying mechanism for preterm birth among HIV-infected women. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We herein report a case of abdominal pregnancy managed in Yaounde (Cameroon). The 33 year old G5P2022 woman was referred to our setting for management of an abdominal pregnancy of 34 weeks diagnosed during the first routine obstetrical ultrasonography done two days earlier. This ultrasonography revealed a live foetus within intestinal loops with a severe oligoamnios. After two days of lung maturation, laparotomy was carried out and the live male baby weighed 2 600 grammes. The placenta was left on its implantation sites: omentun, uterine fundus and intestinal loops. The mother did well post-operatively and the resorption of the placenta took 11 months. The newborn presented compression deformities and died three days later of respiratory distress. This case illustrates that intra-abdominal fetuses can reach viability. Though rare, abdominal pregnancy remains a threat to mothers. Practitioners should therefore know the traps in its management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To assess clinical measurement competency by two sequential test formulations [resetting sequential probability ratio test (R-SPRT) and learning curve cumulative summation (LC-CUSUM)]. Design Numerical simulation and retrospective observational study. Setting Obstetric ultrasound department. Participants Cohorts of 10 000 simulated trainees and 62 obstetric sonographers training in nuchal translucency (NT) measurement at the 11–14-week pregnancy scan with limited case availability. Intervention Application of LC-CUSUM and R-SPRT to clinical measurement training. Main Outcome Measures Proportions of real trainees achieving competency by LC-CUSUM and R-SPRT, proportions of simulated competent trainees not achieving competency (Type I error), proportions of simulated incompetent trainees achieving competency (Type II error), distribution of case number required to achieve competency (run length) and frequency of resets. Results For simulated cohorts, significant differences in run-length distribution and true test error rates were found between the R-SPRT and LC-CUSUM tests with equivalent parameters. Increasing the cases available to each trainee reduced the Type I error rate but increased the Type II error rate for both sequential tests for all choices of unacceptable failure rate. Discontinuities in the proportion of trainees expected to be test competent were found at critical values of unacceptable failure rate. Conclusions With equivalent parameters, the R-SPRT and LC-CUSUM formulations of sequential tests produced different outcomes, demonstrating that the choice of test method, as well as the choice of parameters, is important in designing a training scheme. The R-SPRT detects incompetence as well as competence and may indicate need for further training. Simulations are valuable in estimating the proportions of trainees expected to be assessed as competent. [ABSTRACT FROM PUBLISHER]

Placenta accreta is a condition of abnormal placental implantation in which the placental tissue invades beyond the decidua basalis. It may invade into or even through the myometrium and adjacent organs, such as the urinary bladder. The incidence has been rising in recent years. It is one of the important obstetric complications nowadays, leading to significant maternal morbidity and mortality. In the past, this condition was often diagnosed at the time of delivery when massive and unexpected hemorrhage occurred. Hysterectomy, associated with significant physical and psychological consequences, was usually the only management option. As more obstetricians have become aware of this condition, early identification with antenatal imaging diagnostic technology has become possible. Ultrasound scan plays an important role in the antenatal diagnosis. Various sonographic features with different specificity and sensitivity have been described in the literature. In equivocal cases, magnetic resonance imaging may be helpful. With such information, more accurate counseling can be offered to the mothers and their families before delivery. The delivery can also be arranged at a favorable time and in an institution where multidisciplinary support is available. Input from a hematologist, interventional radiologist, intensive care physician, urology surgeon, and/or other specialist are desirable. Apart from hysterectomy, various forms of conservative management can also be considered when the diagnosis is made prior to delivery. Fertility can therefore be preserved. After delivery, with or without hysterectomy performed, psychological support to the mothers and their families is essential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fetal behavior is defined as any fetal action seen by the mother or fetus diagnosed by objective methods such as cardiotocography (CTG) or ultrasound. Analysis of the dynamics of the fetal behavior with morphological studies has lead to the conclusion that fetal behavior patterns are directly reflecting development and maturation of the central nervous system. The assessment of fetal behavior by 4D ultrasound could allow distinction between normal and abnormal fetal behavior patterns which might make possible the early recognition of fetal brain impairment. Aim: Assessment of fetal movements throughout the pregnancy using 4D ultrasound. Material and Method: The study group included 144 healthy pregnant women with single pregnancies between 7-38 weeks of gestation. For the first trimester of pregnancy we assessed eight types of fetal movements and for the second and third trimesters 14 types of fetal movements and facial expressions. The analyzed parameters for each trimester of pregnancy can be used for performing antenatal neurodevelopment test, used the first time by Professor Kurjak. Results: After 15-20 minutes 4D ultrasound examination, we found a pattern of fetal behavior for each trimester of pregnancy. Conclusions: Dynamic evaluation of fetal behavior reflects directly the processes of maturation and development of the central nervous system. This can make the difference between normal and abnormal brain development and may be used for early diagnosis of neurological disorders that become manifest in perinatal and postnatal periods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The information provided by Doppler ultrasound examination during labor permits the understanding of the mechanisms regarding the physiology and pathophysiology of feto-placental exchange and the fetal adaptive systems. There are certain technical difficulties related to intrapartum Doppler ultrasound examination. The investigated sites are the uterine arteries, umbilical arteries, fetal circulation. In diastole, when intrauterine pressure exceeds maternal diastolic pressure, the perfusion pressure of the uterine artery blood flow is no longer present. A progressive decrease in the diastolic component is seen along with an increase in intrauterine pressure from 10 to 60 mmHg. During premature birth or preeclampsia, there are particular changes in the uterine blood flow. A remarkable stability of the umbilical resistance index is found during labor, which shows the permanent presence of feto-placental exchange. Certain correlations can be established between fetal heart rate changes in labor and Doppler ultrasound aspects at the level of umbilical arteries. Doppler examination confirms the concept of reduced cerebral blood flow by the compression of the fetal skull as a cause of decelerations occurring during labor. The decision regarding the extraction of the fetus can only be made by correlating the results of Doppler ultrasound with the other paraclinical methods for the monitoring of the intrapartum fetal status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To assess the midterm outcomes after ultrasound-guided high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) ablation in treatment of patients with symptomatic adenomyosis. Design: A prospective clinical trial. Setting: University teaching hospital. Patient(s): Seventy-eight patients with symptomatic adenomyosis. Intervention(s): A single treatment session of ultrasound-guided HIFU ablation for adenomyosis. Main Outcome Measure(s): Dysmenorrhea and menorrhagia scores and the incidence of complications. Result(s): In all 78 patients, 84.6% tolerated the treatment procedure well with pain scores between 0 and 4. Treatment was terminated in only one patient because of increased blood pressure persistently. Sixty-nine patients have finished at least an 18-month follow-up; the mean follow-up time was 24.2 months. Nonperfused regions in lesions were observed in 60 (87.0%) patients on the enhanced magnetic resonance imaging scans. Scores for menorrhea and dysmenorrhea decreased. Clinical effectiveness of the treatment was observed in 62 women (89.9%) with varying degrees of symptomatic relief of dysmenorrhea. Eight patients had relapses. Twenty-two patients (28.6%) had 27 complications. Of these, four had two or more complications. Twenty-three events (85.1%) did not need medical intervention (Society of Interventional Radiology class A). No serious complications including death or major permanent injuries were observed. Conclusion(s): Ultrasound-guided HIFU ablation may be a safe and effective noninvasive alternative in the treatment of symptomatic adenomyosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents a study which aims to evaluate the diagnosis of asymptomatic vasa previa through obstetric ultrasound imaging. The study conducted a survey to obstetric and fetomaternal consultants in England and Wales in March and July 2006. Results indicate that 80% of the respondents offer an elective Cesarean section when vasa previa was diagnosed antenatally. It also shows that only 20% obstetricians in England and Wales agreed on the possibility of screening policy.

The article discusses on the study that evaluates the role of ultrasound-indicated cervical cerclage on the clinical outcome of triplet pregnancies. The purpose of the study is to evaluate the effectiveness of prophylactic cerclage placement in triplet pregnancy in preventing preterm delivery. It notes that the placement of cervical cerclage on triplet pregnancies that are diagnosed with cervical shortening on biweekly transvaginal sonography (TVS) seems not to improve neonatal outcomes.

The article presents a study on the conducted tomographic pelvic floor ultrasound imaging among women suffering from pelvic floor trauma during their first vaginal delivery. The study determines tomographic levels from the conducted translabial or transperineal ultrasound imaging of the levator ani muscle to identify the association of levator defects to pelvic organ support. In conclusion, the study found that levator ani defects are either irrelevant for pelvic organ support or artifactual.

The article presents a study on non-pregnant women to determine the anatomic relationship between the pubic symphysis and ischial spines. It examines its clinical significance in the assessment of fetal head engagement and station during labor. It also notes that using CT data from non-pregnant women, a new method for TPU evaluation of fetal head station based on geometric model was developed.

The article presents a study which examines the use of medical literature reporting on ultrasound factors as predictive factors for the outcome of an attempt at external cephalic version (CEV). The researchers found out that the success of an ECV attempt is linked to ultrasound parameters such as fetal position, amniotic fluid and placental location. Moreover, these findings can be used to develop prognostic model to predict successful ECV.

The article examines the intermethod, and inter- and intraobserver agreements for volumetric measurements of fetal fluid-filled structures performed using Virtual Organ Computer-aided AnaLysis (VOCAL), inversion mode and manual segmentation. It proposes an alternative, simpler method for obtaining volume measurements from 3D datasets. It also compares the time required to complete the volume measurements by each method.

The article examines the possibility of tightening the McDonald cerclage under ultrasound guidance and explores the width and shape of the cervical canal before and after tightening the suture. Results reveal that McDonald cerclage can be tightened under ultrasound guidance. The sonographic appearance of an hourglass shape of the cervical canal after suture tightening may be a risk factor for preterm delivery.

The article examines three-dimensional power Doppler ultrasound indices in the assessment of placental perfusion and their relationship with gestational age (GA), placental position and umbilical artery Doppler flow velocity waveform (FVW) patterns in normal and intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) pregnancies. Results reveal that vascularization index (VI), vascularization flow index (VFI), and flow index (FI) were not significantly dependent on GA or placental position.