Vasa Previa

Abstract

(Obstet Gynecol. 2023;142:503–518) Vasa previa is defined as unprotected fetal blood vessels that run through placental tissue or the umbilical cord, either over or in proximity to the internal cervical os. The exposed nature of these vessels presents a significant risk of tear or rupture during labor or after amniotic membrane breaking, which can lead to serious complications such as fetal exsanguination, stillbirth, or neonatal death. This article examines the history of vasa previa, along with epidemiology, pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment.