Publication:

Antenatal diagnosis and management of type III vasa previa

Vasa previa is rare but potentially life-threatening condition for fetus, in which unprotected fetal vessels traverse the membranes over or near the internal cervical os, placing the fetus at risk of rapid exsanguination if undiagnosed. The risk is increased in pregnancies conceived by in vitro fertilization (IVF). With prior written consent of the patient, we report a rare case of type III vasa previa in an IVF pregnancy, diagnosed antenatally and managed successfully. A 26-year-old primigravida with IVF conception was found to have placenta previa on mid-trimester scan. Serial ultrasonography with color Doppler from 28 weeks demonstrated persistent unprotected fetal vessels near the internal os. The pregnancy was managed with close antenatal surveillance, corticosteroid administration, and planned hospitalization. An elective cesarean section at 35 weeks resulted in the delivery of a healthy neonate. Placental examination confirmed Type III vasa previa. This case underscores the importance of targeted ultrasound screening and planned delivery in improving perinatal outcomes.