Towards a New Paradigm in Preterm Birth Prevention: The Evolving Role of Transvaginal Ultrasonography and Progesterone

Venues

Program Overview

Preterm delivery, which occurs in about 5%-13% of pregnancies, is the main cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality. Despite attempts, the rate of preterm delivery has not decreased in the last 50 years. Symptomatic treatment of pregnancies presenting in preterm labor with corticosteroids has improved perinatal outcomes, but has not reduced the incidence of preterm delivery. The lack of an adequate method of screening for high-risk groups and ineffective methods of prevention are the main causes of this failure. However, recent studies suggest that both problems can be overcome.

First, extensive evidence shows that measurement of cervical length (CL) by transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) at mid-gestation provides a useful method for predicting the likelihood of subsequent preterm birth (PTB). Second, once a short cervix has been identified, interventions such as cervical cerclage and use of prophylactic vaginal progesterone therapy may stop progression to preterm birth, resulting in improved outcomes. This symposium will attempt to elucidate these findings and treatment options, in order to minimize risk and enhance patient safety and survival.

Course Directors

Target Audience

Educational Objectives

This program is designed to address the following IOM competencies: provide patient-centered care and employ evidence-based practice.

At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:

• Discuss and explain the clinical and economic impact of PTB
• Recognize patients at risk for PTB and initiate screening strategies
• Explain the data linking the impact of the short cervix with PTB
• Employ routine transvaginal ultrasonography to measure cervical length in all pregnant patients
• Assess the risks/benefits of current and emerging interventions

Accreditation

PHYSICIANS
This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the Essential Areas and policies of the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education through the joint sponsorship of Wayne State University School of Medicine and Rockpointe Corporation. The Wayne State University School of Medicine is accredited by the ACCME to provide continuing medical education for physicians.

Designation Statement

PHYSICIANS
The Wayne State University School of Medicine designates this live activity for a maximum of 1.0 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

For questions regarding CME credit, the post-test, or evaluation, please email: njennett@med.wayne.edu.

Disclosure Information

It is our policy to ensure balance, independence, objectivity, and scientific rigor in all of our educational programs. Faculty and course directors have disclosed relevant financial relationships with commercial companies, and Wayne State University has a process in place to resolve any conflict of interest. Complete faculty disclosures will be provided to program participants at the beginning of the activity.

METHOD OF PARTICIPATION

To complete this activity and receive credit, the participant must attend the program and complete the evaluation form. The appropriate certificate will be mailed within 6-8 weeks.

There are no fees associated with this program.

SPECIAL SERVICES

Event staff will be glad to assist you with any special needs (e.g. physical, dietary, etc.). Please email contact@rockpointe.com at least 5 days prior to the program.

Jointly Sponsored By

Supported By

Supported by an educational grant from:

Registration Statement

By clicking the Registration Button below you are agreeing that you have read and understood the CME Statements above.