Shortened cervical length as a predictor of preterm delivery in twin gestations.
OBJECTIVE
To determine if a shortened screening cervical length measurement in twin gestations, measured between 16 and 24 weeks, is a predictor of preterm delivery.


METHODS
A retrospective chart review was conducted on patients who delivered twins at Bayfront Medical Center between January 1, 2006, and April 1, 2008.


RESULTS
One hundred eighty-three patient charts were reviewed. Ninety-seven patients had a screening cervical length and met inclusion criteria. A shortened cervical length was defined as < or = 25 mm. The sensitivity of a shortened cervical length in predicting preterm delivery at 28, 30 and 32 weeks was 100%, 60% and 43%, respectively. The negative predictive value for preterm delivery was > 95%. The gestational age at delivery was significantly earlier in the shortened cervical length group (33.25 vs. 35.97 weeks, p<0.001). Birth weight was notably lower in the shortened cervical length group (1,889 vs. 2,451 g, p<0.001).


CONCLUSIONS
The greatest value of screening cervical length in twin gestations lies in its negative predictive value; however, screening twins may be helpful in identifying those women who will delivery prematurely.
Schwartz
Rachelle
R
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Bayfront Medical Center, Saint Petersburg, FL 33701, USA. Raschwrtz1@aol.com
Prieto
José
J
D000328:Adult; D001034:Apgar Score; D001724:Birth Weight; D016022:Case-Control Studies; D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging*; D005260:Female; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D011237:Predictive Value of Tests; D011247:Pregnancy; D047928:Premature Birth; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D014427:Twins; D014463:Ultrasonography