Vasa Previa: The Role of Ultrasound in Preventing Perinatal Mortality

Vasa previa is a condition in which unprotected fetal vessels run through the membranes over the cervix. Undiagnosed prenatally, these vessels frequently rupture along with the membranes, leading to stillbirth in approximately 56% of patients. However, when diagnosed prenatally with ultrasound and cesarean is performed before labor, survival approaches 100%. In no other condition does prenatal diagnosis make such a profound difference between survival and death. Yet, vasa previa is often not routinely screened for, despite evidence that it can be diagnosed prenatally with a high degree of accuracy with ultrasound. This presentation will demonstrate the essential role of the sonographer/sonologist in screening for vasa previa and making the diagnosis prenatally. One simple examination has the potential to save lives.