Laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage in pregnancy: A single centre experience

Background Transabdominal cerclage can reduce the risk of preterm birth in women with cervical insufficiency. Aims This study evaluated outcomes following insertion of a laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage in pregnant women. Materials and methods A retrospective observational study. Patients: pregnant women who underwent laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage from 2011 to 2017. Eligible women had cervical insufficiency and were not suitable for a transvaginal cerclage. Intervention: the insertion of a laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage in the pregnancy. Measurements: neonatal survival, delivery of an infant at >= 34 weeks gestation and surgical morbidity were evaluated. Results Of 19 women who underwent laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage in pregnancy, at 6-11 weeks gestation, the perinatal survival rate was 100%. There were no complications. The average gestational age at delivery was 37.1 weeks. Sixteen women delivered after 34 weeks. Conclusions Laparoscopic transabdominal cerclage is a safe and effective procedure in women with poor obstetric histories. It requires the correct skill, expertise and patient selection.