Cervical Cerclage: What It Is, Who It's For, and How It's Performed

Cervical Cerclage: What It Is, Who It's For, and How It's Performed

Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure performed to prevent adverse conditions that may develop due to premature cervical opening during pregnancy. This procedure is typically applied in pregnant women at risk due to previous premature deliveries or miscarriages. Cervical cerclage supports the cervix and helps ensure the healthy continuation of pregnancy. In this article we have prepared for you, we will provide detailed information about what cervical cerclage is, who it is applied to, and how it is performed.

What is Cervical Cerclage?

Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure performed to prevent premature opening of the cervix. This procedure aims to narrow the cervix by using a suture or band to tightly close the cervix and keep it that way throughout the pregnancy. In this way, premature cervical opening and the risk of miscarriage are minimized. Cervical cerclage is usually performed in the early second trimester and remains in place until delivery.

Who is Cervical Cerclage Applied To?

Cervical cerclage is typically applied to pregnant women with the following conditions:

• History of premature delivery or miscarriage,

• Those diagnosed with cervical insufficiency,

• Those showing signs of cervical shortening or opening during pregnancy,

• Those who have previously undergone cervical cerclage,

Cervical cerclage is applied only in high-risk pregnancies and upon medical recommendation. It is not routinely applied to every pregnancy.

How is Cervical Cerclage Performed?

Cervical cerclage is usually performed in a hospital and requires the patient to be kept under observation for a period of time. General or spinal anesthesia is administered to the patient before the procedure. The cervix is then cleaned and tightly closed with sutures or a band. After the procedure, the patient is advised to rest and remain under observation.

After the procedure, there is a risk of light bleeding, cramping, or infection. Therefore, it is important to follow the doctor's recommendations and attend regular check-ups. In pregnant women undergoing cervical cerclage, care must be taken until delivery and close monitoring for signs of premature labor is necessary. During delivery, the sutures or band are loosened to allow the cervix to open naturally and delivery is carried out.

In Which Situations is Cervical Cerclage Applied?

Cervical cerclage is a surgical procedure performed to prevent premature opening of the cervix and to protect the pregnancy. This procedure is applied in pregnancies at risk for miscarriage or premature delivery and is usually performed between weeks 12 and 14 of pregnancy. The reasons for cervical cerclage application are as follows:

The cervix may open prematurely due to insufficient closure of the cervix, and this can lead to miscarriage or premature delivery. In this case, cervical cerclage is applied to close the cervix and support the continuation of the pregnancy.

In women who have experienced miscarriage or premature delivery in previous pregnancies, cervical cerclage can be applied to help reduce the recurrence of these risks.

A shorter than normal cervix can increase the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery. In this case, cervical cerclage is applied to support the pregnancy.

In multiple pregnancies, the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery is higher. Doctors can evaluate cervical cerclage in this situation to support the pregnancy.

Congenital or surgically-induced cervical abnormalities may be among the reasons for cervical cerclage application.

The application of cervical cerclage depends on the doctor's evaluation and the patient's condition. The procedure is planned according to the duration of pregnancy, cervical length, and the patient's general health status.

What Are Cervical Cerclage Application Methods?

Cervical cerclage can be performed using different techniques. The procedure is usually performed under local or spinal anesthesia. Cervical cerclage application methods are as follows:

McDonald Technique: In this method, sutures are placed around the cervix to close the cervical opening. The sutures are left in place until the end of pregnancy and are removed before labor begins. This technique is commonly used among cervical cerclage methods.

Shirodkar Technique: Similar to the McDonald technique, sutures are placed around the cervix. However, in this method, the sutures are buried within the cervix and removed after delivery.

Lash Technique: In this method, the mucous tissue inside the cervix is removed before sutures are placed around the cervix. Sutures are then placed around the cervix. This technique may be considered in situations where previous cerclage methods have not achieved the desired outcome.

Transabdominal Cerclage: This method is a surgical procedure performed through the abdominal wall to place sutures around the cervix. It may be considered in cases where previous cervical cerclage methods have not been effective.

Cervical cerclage methods are determined based on the doctor's evaluation and the patient's condition. The outcome of the procedure depends on the method used, the patient's general health status, and the course of pregnancy. Cervical cerclage may help support pregnancy by reducing the risk of miscarriage and premature delivery. However, outcomes can vary from patient to patient and complications may occur in some cases. Therefore, it is important to carefully follow the doctor's advice before and after cervical cerclage application.

When Should Cervical Cerclage Sutures Be Removed?

Cervical cerclage sutures are usually removed at week 37 of pregnancy. This timing is generally considered appropriate to allow delivery while helping to reduce the likelihood of premature delivery complications. Doctors determine when the sutures should be removed based on the patient's condition, the course of pregnancy, and possible complications.

Suture removal is generally considered a simple and quick procedure. Performed under local anesthesia, the sutures are cut and the cervix begins to open naturally. During this process, the patient is kept under observation for a period of time and any complications are checked.

Following suture removal, the labor process is expected to begin. If labor does not start, doctors may administer medication to induce labor or plan a cesarean delivery. In any case, the removal of cervical cerclage sutures is an important step in supporting a healthy pregnancy outcome. For guidance specific to your situation, please consult your physician.

What Are the Risks of Cervical Cerclage?

Although cervical cerclage is a procedure performed to reduce the risk of premature delivery, it may involve certain risks. These risks can bring possible complications for both mother and baby. The risks of cervical cerclage are as follows:

• Infection risk may develop during or after the procedure. This can lead to inflammation of the uterus and surrounding tissues and cause serious health problems.

• Bleeding may occur during or after cervical cerclage. This condition can be dangerous for both mother and baby and may require emergency intervention.

• Although the procedure aims to reduce premature delivery risk, in some cases it may trigger premature labor.

• Cervical tearing can occur during or after the cervical cerclage procedure. This condition may require emergency intervention and lead to pregnancy termination.

• The anesthesia used during cervical cerclage can cause allergic reactions or other complications in some patients.

• Although the risk of harm to the baby during the procedure is generally low, in some cases risks to the baby may occur.

The risks of cervical cerclage are carefully evaluated by doctors before and after the procedure. It is important for patients to maintain open communication with their doctors about the risks and benefits and to ask all their questions. Please consult your physician to determine whether cervical cerclage is a suitable option for your individual pregnancy.

Cervical Cerclage Treatment Prices in Turkey

Healthcare services in Turkey include investment in diagnostic and treatment infrastructure, including technological equipment used in medical procedures. This has contributed to interest in medical travel to Turkey.

Factors that patients and their relatives may consider include:

• Hospital facilities and technological equipment,

• The experience of medical staff,

• Communication and information provided by healthcare teams,

• Accessibility and logistics for travel,

• Turkey's natural and historical attractions,

• General cost of diagnosis, treatment, accommodation, and related services,

Patients and their relatives researching Cervical Cerclage Treatment Prices in Turkey should be aware that it is not possible to provide a fixed or definitive price at this stage. Many factors influence cost, such as the type and stage of the condition, the diagnostic process, the treatment process, and duration of stay. For more detailed information relevant to an individual case, it is recommended to consult directly with a healthcare provider or hospital.