Assessment of the in vivo biomechanical properties of the human uterine cervix in pregnancy using the aspiration test A feasibility study

摘要: Objective: To date no diagnostic tool is yet available to objectively assess the in vivo biomechanical properties of uterine cervix during gestation. Methods: We show first clinical application an aspiration device pregnancy with aim describe physiological changes throughout gestation order eventually detect pregnant women at risk for cervical insufficiency (CI). Results: Out 15 measurements, 12 produced valid results. The stiffness values were range between 0.013 and 0.068 bar/mm. results showed a good reproducibility test. In our previous test series on non-pregnant cervices repetitive measurements standard deviation > 20% compared <+/- 10% data cervices. Stiffness are decreasing gestational age which indicates progressive softening tissue towards end pregnancy. Three had two subsequent within time interval four weeks. Decreasing recorded. Discussion: This preliminary study practicability tests promising terms (reliability) use (feasibility). Ongoing studies will provide further insights its usefulness practice detection substantial indicative threatened preterm birth or insufficiency.