What is the Cervical Cerclage Procedure?
A cervical cerclage is a common obstetric surgical procedure performed to reinforce the cervix with stitches in cases of cervical incompetence. It is performed before the end of the second trimester or 12–24 weeks of pregnancy. There are a few cervical cerclage indications where the surgery becomes mandatory: when a woman has a history of preterm birth loss or second-trimester loss, cervical insufficiency, cervical shortening, and emergency cases of mid-pregnancy dilatation.
Types of cervical cerclage
There are two types of cervical cerclage based on the approach towards the treatment site:
1. Transvaginal Cerclage
- McDonald’s Cerclage
- Shirodkar Cerclage
2 Transabdominal Cerclage
| Procedure Name | Cervical Cerclage Procedure |
|---|---|
| Type of Surgery | Minor/Minimally Invasive Surgery |
| Type of Anaesthesia | Spinal Anaesthesia |
| Procedure Duration | <1 Hour |
| Recovery Duration | 10 Days |
Cervical Cerclage Procedure: Pre-Op & Post-Op Care
Pre-surgical Preparations
The surgeon will thoroughly review your medical history and advise an ultrasound for the baby’s health. A swab test of the cervical space is taken to check for any infection; if any infection persists, the doctor will prescribe antibiotics, and the surgery continues after you heal. Follow the surgeon’s instructions for fasting, shower a day before surgery, and avoid jewellery, perfumes, and lotion applications.
Cervical Cerclage Procedure Steps
The surgeon makes a circular incision around the cervix and removes the bladder, followed by the placement of the sutures either vaginally or abdominally between 12-24 weeks of pregnancy, and the suture is removed between 36-37 weeks unless labour begins.
Post-Surgical & Recovery Phase
Depending on the type of anaesthesia and the approach used for initial recovery, the surgeon may suggest staying in the hospital for a few hours to a day. Wear a sanitary pad to counter light bleeding and other vaginal discharge for a few days. Get enough rest and prescribed medications to prevent preterm labour and infections, and attend regular appointments for monitoring pregnancy. Avoid unnecessary physical activity like intercourse post-surgery for at least a week.
Benefits of Cervical Cerclage Procedure at Yashoda Hospitals
- It prolongs the gestation period.
- Prevent preterm birth.
- Improves cervical integrity.
- Reduces the risks of late miscarriages.
- Assists the cervix and supports the uterus in holding the pregnancy.
- Minimally invasive surgery.
- Quick healing and faster recovery.
- Reduced pain and minimum blood loss and trauma.
- Improved neonatal survival rates.
- Reduces postpartum discomfort.
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