Umbilical cord prolapse Flashcards
What is cord prolapse?
Danger?
Cord prolapse is when the umbilical cord descends below the presenting part of the fetus and through the cervix into the vagina, after rupture of the fetal membranes. There is a significant danger of the presenting part compressing the cord, resulting in fetal hypoxia.
Most significant risk factor for cord prolapse?
The most significant risk factor for cord prolapse is when the fetus is in an abnormal lie after 37 weeks gestation (i.e. unstable, transverse or oblique). Being in an abnormal lie provides space for the cord to prolapse below the presenting part. In a cephalic lie, the head typically descends into the pelvis, without room for the cord to descend.
How is umbilical cord prolapse diagnosed?
Umbilical cord prolapse should be suspected where there are signs of fetal distress on the CTG. A prolapsed umbilical cord can be diagnosed by vaginal examination. Speculum examination can be used to confirm the diagnosis.
Management of cord prolapse?
Emergency caesarean section is indicated where cord prolapse occurs. A normal vaginal delivery has a high risk of cord compression and significant hypoxia to the baby. Pushing the cord back in is not recommended. The cord should be kept warm and wet and have minimal handling whilst waiting for delivery (handling causes vasospasm).
When the baby is compressing a prolapsed cord, the presenting part can be pushed upwards to prevent it compressing the cord. The woman can lie in the left lateral position (with a pillow under the hip) or the knee-chest position (on all fours), using gravity to draw the fetus away from the pelvis and reduce compression on the cord. Tocolytic medication (e.g. terbutaline) can be used to minimise contractions whilst waiting for delivery by caesarean section.
