Cerclage placement in coexistence of vasa previa and short cervix: The role of ultrasound mapping of fetal vessels

Introduction: The role of cerclage in patients with cervical shortening and vasa previa is understudied. Our case highlights the use of fetal vessel mapping by ultrasound to guide surgical technique and placement of cerclage in a patient with vasa previa. Case Report: A 38-year-old primigravida with type 1 vasa previa and progressive cervical length shortening to 1 cm with funneling and amniotic fluid sludge underwent McDonald cerclage placement utilizing fetal vessel mapping. The cerclage was successfully placed without rupture of membranes and pregnancy was prolonged. Conclusion: Cerclage placement may be a reasonable option to prevent further cervical shortening and preterm birth in patients with vasa previa if fetal vessel mapping by ultrasound is used to guide surgical technique.