Cell-free DNA screening for trisomy 21 in twin pregnancy: a large multicenter cohort study.

Background: Analysis of cell-free DNA from maternal blood provides effective screening for trisomy 21 in singleton pregnancies. Data on cell-free DNA screening in twin gestations are promising although limited. In previous twin studies, cell-free DNA screening was primarily performed in the second trimester and many studies did not report chorionicity.

Genetic abnormalities seen on CVS in early pregnancy failure.

To determine the frequency and distribution of chromosome abnormalities in women with early pregnancy failure (EPF) detected by cytogenetic testing on chorionic villus sampling. Retrospective observational cohort study of chromosomal analysis from transvaginal chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or reflex products of conception (POC) karyotype. CVS was offered as a training tool for Maternal Fetal Medicine fellows prior to manual vacuum aspiration for EPF 9-week gestation.

How many procedures does it take? Success of a CVS training program for Maternal Fetal Medicine fellows.

Objectives: To quantify the learning curve for a training program for Maternal Fetal Medicine (MFM) fellows in obtaining successful transvaginal chorionic villus sampling (CVS) results in women with early pregnancy failure (EPF).

Methods: Retrospective observational cohort study of transvaginal CVS and subsequent manual vacuum aspiration (MVA) performed by MFM fellows. CVS samples were sent for karyotype, and products of conception (POC) were sent if CVS sample did not yield a result.

Second Trimester Cervical Length and Its Association with Vaginal Birth after Cesarean Delivery.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the relationship between cervical length (CL) and trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) delivery.

Study Design: This retrospective cohort study evaluated second trimester CL and likelihood of successful TOLAC. Women undergoing TOLAC from January 2009 to December 2011 who underwent transvaginal ultrasound CL between 18(0/7) to 23(6/7) weeks gestation were included.

Is universal cervical length screening indicated in women with prior term birth?

Objective: To determine whether universal transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) cervical length (CL) screening is indicated in women with prior term births.

Study Design: We conducted a prospective cohort study from Jan. 1, 2012, to June 30, 2013, of singleton gestations between 18 0/7-23 6/7 weeks undergoing TVU CL screening for prediction of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB).

Implementation of a universal cervical length screening program for the prevention of preterm birth.

Objective: The objective of this article is to evaluate the implementation and acceptability of a universal cervical length (CL) screening program for prediction and prevention of preterm birth (PTB).

Study Design: We performed a prospective observational study to evaluate the implementation and acceptability of a universal CL screening program. Between January 1, 2012, and December 31, 2012, women with singleton gestations, without a cerclage or prior spontaneous PTB, were offered transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) for CL between 18(0/7) and 23(6/7) weeks' gestation.

Early pregnancy failure as a training tool for chorionic villus sampling.

Objectives: The goal of this study is to evaluate the success of a training program in chorionic villus sampling (CVS) of early pregnancy failure (EPF) for maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) fellows.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of a new training program in CVS for MFM fellows. Women with EPF up to 13 weeks estimated gestational age were offered inclusion in our program and counseled on alternatives.

Estimation of fetal weight in fetuses with abdominal wall defects: comparison of 2 recent sonographic formulas to the Hadlock formula.

Objective: Estimation of fetal weight is particularly challenging in fetuses with abdominal wall defects (AWDs). We sought to compare the accuracy and screening efficiency for intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) of 2 recent sonographic formulas to those of the Hadlock formula (Am J Obstet Gynecol 1985; 151:333-337) in fetuses with AWDs.

Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study of fetuses with AWDs.

Predicting adverse neonatal outcomes in fetuses with abdominal wall defects using prenatal risk factors.

Objective: The aim of this study was to determine whether prenatal variables can predict adverse neonatal outcomes in fetuses with abdominal wall defects.

Study Design: A retrospective cohort study that used ultrasound and neonatal records for all cases of gastroschisis and omphalocele seen over a 16-year period. Cases with adverse neonatal outcomes were compared with noncases for multiple candidate predictive factors.

Hypnotic analgesia during first-trimester termination: Marc et al.

The article below summarizes a roundtable discussion of a study published in this issue of the Journal in light of its methodology, relevance to practice, and implications for future research. Article discussed: Marc I, Rainville P, Masse B, et al. Hypnotic analgesia intervention during first-trimester pregnancy termination: an open randomized trial.

Discussion: 'Hypnotic analgesia during first-trimester termination' by Marc et al.

In the roundtable that follows, clinicians discuss a study published in this issue of the Journal in light of its methodology, relevance to practice, and implications for future research. Article discussed: Marc I, Rainville P, Masse B, et al. Hypnotic analgesia intervention during first-trimester pregnancy termination: an open randomized trial.