This paper is a systematic review of the literature on fetal membrane thickness and its use for the prediction of PPROM. Four key studies are identified and reviewed; two in vitro studies and two in vivo ultrasound studies each using differing methodologies. Additionally reviewed is a study using Optical Coherence Tomography, an emerging technique using near-infrared technology to produce high-resolution images.
There is currently insufficient data to determine the association between fetal membrane thickness and PPROM by ultrasound.
Fetal membrane thickness could have relevant clinical ramifications for the prediction of PPROM. Suggested improvements in study methodology and design will lead to progress in this area of research, as well as the use of newer technologies. Larger sample sizes, histological comparison, uniform methodologies for data collection, longitudinal study design and expanding data analysis beyond fetal membrane thickness to other properties would expand our knowledge in this field. In addition, transvaginal ultrasound should be utilized to improve resolution, as well as emerging methodologies such as MRI fusion imaging using ultrasound and Shear Wave Elastography.
本文是对胎膜厚度及其用于PPROM预测的文献的系统回顾。确定并审查了四项关键研究;两项体外研究和两项体内超声研究各自使用不同的方法。此外,还回顾了一项使用光学相干断层扫描的研究,一种利用近红外技术产生高分辨率图像的新兴技术。
目前没有足够的数据通过超声确定胎膜厚度和PPROM之间的关联。
胎膜厚度可能对PPROM的预测具有相关的临床影响。研究方法和设计的建议改进将导致这一研究领域的进展,以及使用新技术。样本量较大,组织学比较,统一的数据收集方法,纵向研究设计和扩大从胎膜厚度到其他属性的数据分析将扩大我们在这一领域的知识。此外,应利用经阴道超声来提高分辨率,以及新兴的方法,例如使用超声和剪切波弹性成像的MRI融合成像。