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BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

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Open Access 01-12-2016 | Research article

Fetal membrane imaging and the prediction of preterm birth: a systematic review, current issues, and future directions

Authors: Vanessa Nunes, Jennifer Cross, John E. Speich, Danielle R. Morgan, Jerome F. Strauss III, Ronald M. Ramus

Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth | Issue 1/2016

Abstract

Background

Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is the largest identifiable cause of preterm birth. There is currently no good screening test for PPROM in low-risk asymptomatic patients. Our goal was to identify how imaging methods can be utilized for examining the risks for PPROM in asymptomatic patients.

Methods

This paper is a systematic review of the literature on fetal membrane thickness and its use for the prediction of PPROM. Four key studies are identified and reviewed; two in vitro studies and two in vivo ultrasound studies each using differing methodologies. Additionally reviewed is a study using Optical Coherence Tomography, an emerging technique using near-infrared technology to produce high-resolution images.

Results

There is currently insufficient data to determine the association between fetal membrane thickness and PPROM by ultrasound.

Conclusions

Fetal membrane thickness could have relevant clinical ramifications for the prediction of PPROM. Suggested improvements in study methodology and design will lead to progress in this area of research, as well as the use of newer technologies. Larger sample sizes, histological comparison, uniform methodologies for data collection, longitudinal study design and expanding data analysis beyond fetal membrane thickness to other properties would expand our knowledge in this field. In addition, transvaginal ultrasound should be utilized to improve resolution, as well as emerging methodologies such as MRI fusion imaging using ultrasound and Shear Wave Elastography.

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Title: Fetal membrane imaging and the prediction of preterm birth: a systematic review, current issues, and future directions
Authors: Vanessa Nunes
Jennifer Cross
John E. Speich
Danielle R. Morgan
Jerome F. Strauss III
Ronald M. Ramus
Publication date: 01-12-2016
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1471-2393
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12884-016-1176-5

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Fetal membrane imaging and the prediction of preterm birth: a systematic review, current issues, and future directions

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

At a glance: The ONWARDS insulin icodec trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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