What is Cervical incompetence?
It is a condition where cervix (mouth of uterus) opens up before a full term pregnancy and leads to preterm delivery which is too early for baby survival.
How to treat cervical incompetence?
A cervical stitch/tape is placed around the cervix to close it ,so it does not open before expected time. This procedure is known as cerclage. It can be done vaginally or laparoscopically(TAC).
What is TAC?
Laparoscopic Transabdominal Cerclage (TAC) is a highly specialised procedure where tape is placed at the uppermost part of the cervix near the transition with the uterine body. This level is extremely difficult to reach via vagina thats why laparoscopy is done to put it.
TAC requires extraordinary laparoscopic skill, technique and experience.
Why choose TAC?
TAC gives maximum length of the closed cervix, hence laparoscopic approach offers better success rate upto 98% compared to vaginal cerclage.
Women who need it?
1. Previous failed vaginal cerclage
2. Shortened (less than 2.5 cm) cervix
3. amputated cervix
4. Precious pregnancy (IVF conception or multiple abortions) with cervical incompetence
What is the right time to get TAC done?
1. Before woman plans for pregnancy (pre-conception) in proven case of weak cervix.
2. It can be done during pregnancy after 12weeks ultrasound.
What to expect after TAC?
Patients can resume normal activities within a week after surgery .There is no need of bed rest even during pregnancy.
Pregnancy outcome:
The desired outcome is an elective caesarean section around 38 weeks gestation. After delivery, TAC doesn’t have to be removed and can be used again for future pregnancy.