Which of the following statements is true regarding cerclage
**Core Concept**
Cerclage, also known as cervical cerclage, is a surgical procedure to tighten the cervix in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth due to cervical insufficiency. This condition is characterized by a weakened or dilated cervix that fails to maintain a pregnancy beyond 28 weeks of gestation.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The correct answer is related to the primary indication for cervical cerclage. Women with a history of cervical trauma, cervical surgery, or previous preterm birth are at increased risk of cervical insufficiency, making them ideal candidates for cerclage. The procedure involves placing stitches in the cervix to reinforce it and prevent preterm labor. This is typically performed between 12-24 weeks of gestation, and it has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth in high-risk women.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is incorrect because cerclage is not typically performed in women with a normal cervix or those without a history of cervical insufficiency.
**Option B:** This option is incorrect because cerclage is not a treatment for preterm labor; rather, it is a preventive measure to avoid preterm birth in women at risk.
**Option D:** This option is incorrect because cerclage is not a treatment for multiple gestations; while women with multiple gestations may be at increased risk of preterm birth, cerclage is not the primary intervention for this condition.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Cervical cerclage is a highly effective intervention for preventing preterm birth in women with cervical insufficiency, with a success rate of up to 80% in reducing the risk of preterm birth.
**Correct Answer:** C. Women with a history of cervical trauma or previous preterm birth are ideal candidates for cerclage.