Cord Prolapse Flashcards
1
Q
what is a cord prolapse?
A
when the umbilical cord descends ahead of the presenting part of the fetus
left untreated –> cord compression / cord spasm –> fetal hypoxia –> irreversible damage / death
2
Q
what are the RFs for cord prolapse?
A
- prematurity
- multiparity
- polyhydramnios
- twin pregnancy
- cephalopelvic disproportion
- abnormal presentations e.g. Breech, transverse lie
- placenta praevia
- long umbilical cord
- high fetal station
3
Q
when do majority of cord prolapses occur?
A
at artificial rupture of the membranes
4
Q
how is the dx of cord prolapse made?
A
when fetal HR becomes abnormal /
cord is palpable vaginally /
cord is visible beyond level of introitus
5
Q
how is cord prolapse managed?
A
- presenting part of fetus pushed back into uterus to avoid compression
- tocolytics
- if cord past level of introitus –> keep it warm and moist, DON’T PUSH BACK INSIDE
- ask pt to go on ‘all fours’ until preparations for immediate C-section have been carried out
