Next-generation monitoring in obstetrics: Assessing the accuracy of non-piezo portable ultrasound technology.

INTRODUCTION: The emergence of handheld ultrasound devices capable of connecting to cell phones or tablets heralds a significant advancement in medical technology, particularly within the field of obstetrics. These devices offer the promise of immediate bedside ultrasound examinations, potentially revolutionizing patient care by enabling fetal assessments in diverse settings. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This prospective study aimed to validate the reliability of non-piezo, chip-based handheld ultrasound devices in clinical obstetric practice. Conducted in a university hospital obstetric ward, the study included 100 pregnant women between 17 and 41 weeks of gestation. Participants underwent ultrasound examinations using both conventional and portable point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) devices to compare the accuracy in estimating fetal weight and other parameters, such as cardiac activity, fetal presentation, placental location, and amniotic fluid volume. The reliability and agreement between the devices were assessed using intraclass correlation coefficients, Bland-Altman plots, and Pearson correlation coefficients. RESULTS: The results show a near-perfect agreement (0.98) and correlation (r = 0.98, p < 0.001) for estimated fetal weight and most biometry measurements between the two types of ultrasound devices, with slight deviations in head circumference and amniotic fluid index measurements. Subgroup analysis revealed variations in agreement and correlation rates with higher BMI and advanced gestational age, indicating areas for further refinement. CONCLUSIONS: These findings affirm the high reliability of handheld ultrasound devices for basic obstetric ultrasound evaluations, supporting their integration into daily clinical practice. This technology improves the flexibility and immediacy of prenatal care, although further research is needed to optimize its application across patient populations and treatment settings.

Enhancing ultrasound education in obstetrics and gynecology in Germany: insights and innovations from postgraduate training.

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound (US) has become integral to obstetrics and gynecology (Ob/Gyn), necessitating proficient training during residency. Despite its clinical importance, there is a perceived gap in the quality and structure of postgraduate ultrasound education in Germany. METHODS: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among Ob/Gyn residents in Germany from October 2023 to March 2024, using the LimeSurvey platform. The survey, distributed via email, social media, and physical flyers, garnered 211 participants, with 115 completing all sections. The questionnaire covered demographic details, US training experiences, and the perceived importance of US in clinical practice. RESULTS: Although US was highly valued by respondents, with an average of 26.1% of their clinical activity devoted to it, there was significant dissatisfaction with the training quality. Key issues included inadequate supervision, the necessity of self-training, and low participation in certification courses. Despite 93.0% awareness of professional US organizations like the German Society for Ultrasound in Medicine (DEGUM), engagement with structured training programs was minimal. DISCUSSION: The study highlights a critical need for standardized US training protocols and curricular reform in Ob/Gyn residencies in Germany. The discrepancy between the recognized importance of US and the quality of training indicates a pressing need for improvements. Addressing these gaps through comprehensive, structured educational reforms could significantly enhance the proficiency and confidence of future Ob/Gyn specialists, ultimately improving patient care.

Congenital Gerbode Defect: A Left Ventricular to Right Atrial Shunt-State-of-the-Art Review of Its General Data, Diagnostic Modalities, and Treatment Strategies.

The congenital Gerbode defect is defined as an abnormal communication between the left ventricle and the right atrium. This review aimed to summarize existing evidence, shed light on the clinical implications, and identify knowledge gaps. The systematic literature search was conducted in the PubMed and Google Scholar medical databases using specifically selected keywords. The inclusion of each publication was assessed according to predefined eligibility criteria based on the PICOM (Population, Phenomenon of Interest, Context, Methodology) schema. Titles and abstracts were screened independently by two authors. Available full-text versions of included publications were reviewed and relevant information was extracted. A total of 78 reports were included. The compilation of all congenital Gerbode defect cases described in the literature revealed a variety of clinical presentations comprising dyspnea, palpitations, growth retardation, and asymptomatology. A suitable multimodal diagnostic approach for newborns consists of auscultation, TTE, and optionally TEE and MRI. Because of its rarity, diversity of findings, unknown pathophysiology, and similarity to more common cardiac diseases, the diagnostic challenge remains significant. To prevent untreated long-term sequelae, early individualized treatment is recommended. Surgical defect closure is preferred to device closure for evidence reasons, although major developments are currently taking place. In conclusion, the congenital Gerbode defect provides a diagnostic challenge for pediatricians to allow early diagnosis and intervention in order to improve patients' quality of life.

Applications of Point-of-Care-Ultrasound in Neonatology: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) integration into neonatology offers transformative potential for diagnostics and treatment, enhancing immediacy and precision of clinical decision-making in this vulnerable patient population. This systematic review aims to synthesize evidence on POCUS applications, benefits, challenges, and educational strategies in neonatology. Literature search was conducted using SPIDER scheme keywords and MeSH terms related to POCUS and neonatology. Studies focusing on POCUS applications, its impact on clinical outcomes, and educational interventions for skill acquisition were included and analyzed using standardized tools, followed by a narrative synthesis of the findings. The search yielded 68 relevant publications, encompassing original research, reviews, and guidelines. POCUS applications varied across cardiovascular, pulmonary, neurological, and abdominal assessments. Key benefits included a reduced need for invasive procedures and rapid bedside diagnosis. Challenges included steep learning curves for clinicians and the need for standardized training and guidelines. Educational strategies highlighted the effectiveness of simulation-based training in enhancing ultrasound proficiency among neonatal care providers. POCUS represents a significant advancement in neonatal medicine, offering benefits for patient care. Addressing identified challenges through comprehensive training programs and developing standardized guidelines is crucial for optimized use. Future research should focus on evaluating educational outcomes and long-term impacts of POCUS integration into neonatal care.

Clinical experience with shear wave elastography (SWE) for assessing healthy uterus in a transabdominal approach.

Aim of the study was to evaluate the diagnostic performance and feasibility of transabdominal ultrasound shear wave elastography (SWE) in assessing sonoelastographic features of the uterus. Twenty-seven premenopausal women were enrolled between 2021 and 2022. Transabdominal SWE measured myometrial stiffness in various uterine segments. Additionally, tissue stiffness of the quadriceps femoris muscle and autochthonous back muscle was measured. Statistical analysis employed non-parametric tests, t test, and a robust mixed linear model. Stiffness values of the uterus and the two investigated muscle types exhibited a similar spectrum: 6.38 ± 2.59 kPa (median 5.61 kPa; range 2.76-11.31 kPa) for the uterine myometrium, 7.22 ± 1.24 kPa (6.82 kPa; 5.11-9.39 kPa) for the quadriceps femoris musle, and 7.43 ± 2.73 kPa (7.41 kPa; 3.10-13.73 kPa) for the autochthonous back muscle. A tendency for significant differences in myometrial stiffness was observed concerning the type of labor mode (mean stiffness of 9.17 ± 1.35 kPa after vaginal birth vs. 3.83 ± 1.35 kPa after Caesarian section, p = 0.01). No significant differences in myometrial stiffness were observed concerning age, BMI, previous pregnancies, uterine flexion and menstrual cycle phase. Transabdominal SWE of uterine stiffness seems to be a fast and practicable method in a clinical setting. Uterine stiffness appears to be largely independent of various factors, except for the mode of delivery. However, further studies are needed to validate these results.

Development of a 3D-printed nuchal translucency model: a pilot study for prenatal ultrasound training.

BACKGROUND: We used two 3D ultrasound volumes of fetal heads at 13 weeks to create live-size 3D-printed phantoms with a view to training or assessment of diagnostic abilities for normal and abnormal nuchal translucency measurements. The phantoms are suitable for use in a water bath, imitating a real-life exam. They were then used to study measurement accuracy and reproducibility in examiners of different skill levels. METHODS: Ultrasound scans of a 13 + 0-week fetus were processed using 3D Slicer software, producing a stereolithography file for 3D printing. The model, crafted in Autodesk Fusion360™, adhered to FMF guidelines for NT dimensions (NT 2.3 mm). Additionally, a model with pathologic NT was designed (NT 4.2 mm). Printing was performed via Formlabs Form 3® printer using High Temp Resin V2. The externally identical looking 3D models were embedded in water-filled condoms for ultrasound examination. Eight specialists of varying expertise levels conducted five NT measurements for each model, classifying them in physiological and abnormal models. RESULTS: Classification of the models in physiological or abnormal NT resulted in a detection rate of 100%. Average measurements for the normal NT model and the increased NT model were 2.27 mm (SD ± 0.38) and 4.165 mm (SD ± 0.51), respectively. The interrater reliability was calculated via the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) which yielded a result of 0.883, indicating robust agreement between the raters. Cost-effectiveness analysis demonstrated the economical nature of the 3D printing process. DISCUSSION: This study underscores the potential of 3D printed fetal models for enhancing ultrasound training through high inter-rater reliability, consistency across different expert levels, and cost-effectiveness. Limitations, including population variability and direct translation to clinical outcomes, warrant further exploration. The study contributes to ongoing discussions on integrating innovative technologies into medical education, offering a practical and economical method to acquire, refine and revise diagnostic skills in prenatal ultrasound. Future research should explore broader applications and long-term economic implications, paving the way for transformative advancements in medical training and practice.

Development and evaluation of a "simulator-based" ultrasound training program for university teaching in obstetrics and gynecology-the prospective GynSim study.

Introduction: This study addresses the challenges of ultrasound education in obstetrics and gynecology, focusing on the potential benefits of simulation techniques in medical training. Aiming to evaluate the impact of a structured simulator-based training program, this prospective, randomized, interventional study examines its effects on educational outcomes for 5th year medical students. Methods: A total of 153 medical students were randomized into two groups: one receiving both theoretical instruction and hands-on ultrasound simulator training (study group), and the other receiving only theoretical instruction (control group). The study assessed theoretical knowledge and practical skills at two time points: upon enrollment and at the end of the course. The practical skills were specifically evaluated using a dedicated test on the ultrasound simulator. Results: Out of 153 students, 113 completed the study (study group n=59, control group n=54). The students in the study group demonstrated a greater improvement in theoretical test scores. They also achieved better results at the practical test, with regard to image quality, accuracy, and efficiency. Both groups showed an increase in self-confidence and competency in performing ultrasound examinations independently. Students expressed high satisfaction with the course and a positive attitude toward simulator-based training. Discussion: Simulator-based training presents a valuable supplement to traditional clinical education methods in obstetrics and gynecology. This approach is particularly effective in overcoming the challenges posed by the sensitive nature of gynecological examinations in medical student training. The study highlights the benefits of integrating simulator-based methods into medical curricula, improving both theoretical and practical ultrasound skills among students.

Shaping ultrasound in midwifery: towards an evidence-based training framework for enhanced prenatal care.

BACKGROUND: Academic advancement of the midwifery profession highlights the need to establish standardized qualifications in obstetric ultrasound diagnosis, being a central part of prenatal care. Thus, introduction of an evidence-based training program is warranted. We aimed to reviewed curriculum designs used in midwifery ultrasound education. METHODS: A systematic literature research was conducted. Embase, PubMed and Google Scholar database was reviewed for publications using the terms "[midwife], [midwives], [midwifery students], [obstetric ultrasound], [midwife sonographer] and [education], [teaching], [program], [course], [curriculum] and [learning]". Papers with full description of curriculum designs or educational programs on obstetrical ultrasound for midwives were included and scrutinized against pre-defined criteria according to the PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcomes) scheme. RESULTS: 29 publications were included. Studies demonstrated a significant disparity according to course concepts being used. Differing parameters included: Duration, structure, learning approaches, course content, examination concepts and target groups (practising midwives vs. midwives in education). CONCLUSION: An evidence-based ultrasound educational program for midwives remains to be developed, including further educational guidelines. Clinical applications by midwives, as well as the distinctions from medical practise, particularly in terms of legal considerations, needs to be defined.

Advancement of 3D printing technology for the development of a training model in US-guided vesicoamniotic shunting for early LUTO therapy.

INTRODUCTION: Prenatal lower urinary tract obstruction (LUTO) is a rare and challenging condition with potential severe morbidity and mortality. Prenatal shunting methods, specifically vesicoamniotic shunting (VAS) and fetal cystoscopy, aim to manage this condition. However, comprehensive education and training are hindered by the rarity of LUTO. To address this gap, we present a low-cost 3D-printed ultrasound training model for VAS in LUTO fetuses. The aim of the study was to evaluate ultrasound and haptic fidelity of the model. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Ultrasound images of three LUTO fetuses at 12-14 weeks were utilized to create detailed 3D-printed models. Fusion360TM software generated stereo-lithography files, and the Formlabs Form3® printer, using Flexible 80A resin, produced the models. A simulation box mimicking uterine conditions and fetal anatomy was developed for testing. Ultrasound assessments determined model accuracy, and expert evaluations gauged fidelity for VAS placement. RESULTS: The 3D-printed model accurately replicated LUTO fetal anatomy, demonstrating structural integrity and realistic sonographic and haptic feedback during 20 punctures. Macroscopic visualization confirmed the model's durability and authenticity. DISCUSSION: This innovative 3D-printed model addresses the scarcity of LUTO cases and the lack of realistic training tools. Simulation models enhance skills, providing a controlled learning environment that bridges theoretical knowledge and clinical application, potentially improving patient outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: The 3D-printed training model for VAS in LUTO represents a significant advancement in surgical education, offering realistic anatomical simulation and tactile feedback. Future studies should assess its effectiveness in enhancing surgical skills and impacting patient outcomes in clinical practice.

Association of right aortic arch and agenesis of ductus arteriosus in prenatal tetralogy of Fallot spectrum and its clinical implications.

OBJECTIVE: In our center, we observed an increased frequency of right aortic arch (RAA) with an agenesis of the ductus arteriosus (ADA) in prenatally diagnosed tetralogy of Fallot (ToF) and its variations. This study aimed to determine whether there is an association of RAA and ADA in fetuses with ToF. Distribution of genetic anomalies and impact on postnatal outcome were further evaluated. METHOD: Single-center retrospective observational study including pregnancies with prenatal diagnosis of ToF from 2010 to 2023. All cases were subdivided into ToF with pulmonary stenosis (PS) and pulmonary atresia (PA). Clinical and echocardiographic databases were reviewed for pregnancy outcome, genetic anomalies, and postnatal course. RESULTS: The cohort included 169 cases, 124 (73.4%) with ToF/PS and 45(26.6%) with ToF/PA. Agenesis of the ductus arteriosus was significantly associated with RAA in both subtypes of ToF (p = 0.001) compared to left aortic arch and found in 82.5% (33/40) versus 10.7% (9/84) of fetuses with ToF/PS and in 57.1% (8/14) versus 12.9% (4/31) of fetuses with ToF/PA. In both ToF/PS and ToF/PA, RAA/ADA versus RAA/patent DA revealed a significantly higher risk for the presence of genetic abnormalities, especially microdeletion 22q11.2, major aorto-pulmonary collateral arteries and a shorter time to complete surgical repair. CONCLUSION: We demonstrated a significantly increased frequency of RAA/ADA in patients with prenatally diagnosed ToF. Although this association revealed no significant impact on overall survival, the prenatal detection of RAA/ADA has implications for counseling, genetic evaluation and postnatal management.

Clinical Ultrasound Applications in Obstetrics and Gynecology in the Year 2024.

Ultrasound imaging stands as a fundamental technology in the realms of obstetrics and gynecology, utilizing high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body [...].

Student ultrasound education - current views and controversies.

As an extension of the clinical examination and as a diagnostic and problem-solving tool, ultrasound has become an established technique for clinicians. A prerequisite for high-quality clinical ultrasound practice is adequate student ultrasound training. In light of the considerable heterogeneity of ultrasound curricula in medical studies worldwide, this review presents basic principles of modern medical student ultrasound education and advocates for the establishment of an ultrasound core curriculum embedded both horizontally and vertically in medical studies.

Exploring the current state of clinical and practical teaching in obstetrics and gynecology in the era of competency-based education: a nationwide survey among German teaching coordinators.

BACKGROUND: Obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN) is an essential medical field that focuses on women's health. Universities aim to provide high-quality healthcare services to women through comprehensive education of medical students. In Germany, medical education is undergoing a phase of restructuring towards the implementation of competency-based learning. The objective of the current survey was to gain insights into the teaching methods, resources, and challenges at German medical universities in the field OB/GYN. This aims to document the current state of medical education and derive potential suggestions for improvements in the era of competency-based learning. The survey was conducted with teaching coordinators from the majority of OB/GYN departments at German universities. METHODS: A questionnaire was sent to the teaching coordinators in all 41 OB/GYN departments at German university hospitals. The survey was delivered via email with a link to an online survey platform. RESULTS: The study received 30 responses from 41 universities. Differences were observed in the work environment of teaching coordinators concerning release from clinical duties for teaching purposes and specialized academic training. Overall, medical education and student motivation were perceived positively, with noticeable gaps, particularly in practical gynecological training. Deficiencies in supervision and feedback mechanisms were also evident. Subfields such as urogynecology and reproductive medicine appear to be underrepresented in the curriculum, correlating with poorer student performance. E-learning was widely utilized and considered advantageous. CONCLUSION: The present study provides valuable insights into the current state of medical education in OB/GYN at German universities from the perspective of teaching experts. We highlight current deficits, discuss approaches to overcome present obstacles, and provide suggestions for improvement.

Fetal NT-proBNP levels and their course in severe anemia during intrauterine treatment.

PURPOSE: In adults and fetuses, N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) is a marker of cardiac failure and myocardial remodelling. We examined the effect of anemia and intrauterine transfusion (IUT) on NT-proBNP concentrations in fetuses with anemia and established gestational age-dependent reference values of a control group. METHODS: We analyzed NT-proBNP levels in anemic fetuses that underwent serial intrauterine transfusions (IUT), focusing on different causes and severity of anemia and comparing the results to a non-anemic control group. RESULTS: In the control group, the average NT-proBNP concentration was 1339 ± 639 pg/ml, decreasing significantly with increasing gestational age (R = - 74.04, T = - 3.65, p = 0.001). Subjects had significantly higher NT-proBNP concentrations before initiation of IUT therapy (p < 0.001), showing fetuses with parvovirus B19 (PVB19) infection having the highest concentrations. Hydropic fetuses also showed an increased NT-proBNP concentration compared to non-hydropic fetuses (p < 0.001). During the course of therapy, NT-proBNP concentration before subsequent IUT decreased significantly from pathologically high levels, while MoM-Hb and MoM-MCA-PSV remained pathological. CONCLUSION: NT-pro BNP levels in non-anemic fetuses are higher than in postnatal life, decreasing with ongoing pregnancy. Anemia is a hyperdynamic state and its severity correlates with circulating NT-proBNP levels. Highest concentrations occur in fetuses with hydrops and with PVB19 infection, respectively. Treatment by IUT leads to a normalisation of NT-proBNP concentrations, so the measurement of its levels may be useful in therapy monitoring.

ChatGPT's performance in German OB/GYN exams - paving the way for AI-enhanced medical education and clinical practice.

Background: Chat Generative Pre-Trained Transformer (ChatGPT) is an artificial learning and large language model tool developed by OpenAI in 2022. It utilizes deep learning algorithms to process natural language and generate responses, which renders it suitable for conversational interfaces. ChatGPT's potential to transform medical education and clinical practice is currently being explored, but its capabilities and limitations in this domain remain incompletely investigated. The present study aimed to assess ChatGPT's performance in medical knowledge competency for problem assessment in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN). Methods: Two datasets were established for analysis: questions (1) from OB/GYN course exams at a German university hospital and (2) from the German medical state licensing exams. In order to assess ChatGPT's performance, questions were entered into the chat interface, and responses were documented. A quantitative analysis compared ChatGPT's accuracy with that of medical students for different levels of difficulty and types of questions. Additionally, a qualitative analysis assessed the quality of ChatGPT's responses regarding ease of understanding, conciseness, accuracy, completeness, and relevance. Non-obvious insights generated by ChatGPT were evaluated, and a density index of insights was established in order to quantify the tool's ability to provide students with relevant and concise medical knowledge. Results: ChatGPT demonstrated consistent and comparable performance across both datasets. It provided correct responses at a rate comparable with that of medical students, thereby indicating its ability to handle a diverse spectrum of questions ranging from general knowledge to complex clinical case presentations. The tool's accuracy was partly affected by question difficulty in the medical state exam dataset. Our qualitative assessment revealed that ChatGPT provided mostly accurate, complete, and relevant answers. ChatGPT additionally provided many non-obvious insights, especially in correctly answered questions, which indicates its potential for enhancing autonomous medical learning. Conclusion: ChatGPT has promise as a supplementary tool in medical education and clinical practice. Its ability to provide accurate and insightful responses showcases its adaptability to complex clinical scenarios. As AI technologies continue to evolve, ChatGPT and similar tools may contribute to more efficient and personalized learning experiences and assistance for health care providers.

Evolving the Era of 5D Ultrasound? A Systematic Literature Review on the Applications for Artificial Intelligence Ultrasound Imaging in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has gained prominence in medical imaging, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), where ultrasound (US) is the preferred method. It is considered cost effective and easily accessible but is time consuming and hindered by the need for specialized training. To overcome these limitations, AI models have been proposed for automated plane acquisition, anatomical measurements, and pathology detection. This study aims to overview recent literature on AI applications in OB/GYN US imaging, highlighting their benefits and limitations. For the methodology, a systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Matching abstracts were screened based on the PICOS (Participants, Intervention or Exposure, Comparison, Outcome, Study type) scheme. Articles with full text copies were distributed to the sections of OB/GYN and their research topics. As a result, this review includes 189 articles published from 1994 to 2023. Among these, 148 focus on obstetrics and 41 on gynecology. AI-assisted US applications span fetal biometry, echocardiography, or neurosonography, as well as the identification of adnexal and breast masses, and assessment of the endometrium and pelvic floor. To conclude, the applications for AI-assisted US in OB/GYN are abundant, especially in the subspecialty of obstetrics. However, while most studies focus on common application fields such as fetal biometry, this review outlines emerging and still experimental fields to promote further research.

Digital Transformation in Musculoskeletal Ultrasound: Acceptability of Blended Learning.

BACKGROUND: ultrasound diagnostics have a broad spectrum of applications, including among diseases of the musculoskeletal system. Accordingly, it is important for the users to have a well-founded and up-to-date education in this dynamic examination method. The right balance between online and in-class teaching still needs to be explored in this context. Certifying institutions are currently testing digitally transformed teaching concepts to provide more evidence. METHODS: this study compared two musculoskeletal ultrasound blended learning models. Model A was more traditional, with a focus on in-person teaching, while Model B was more digitally oriented with compulsory webinar. Both used e-learning for preparation. Participants completed evaluations using a seven-point Likert scale, later converted to a 0-1 scale. Digital teaching media (e-learning) were used for preparation in both courses. RESULTS: the analysis included n = 41 evaluations for Model A and n = 30 for Model B. Model B received a better overall assessment (median: 0.73 vs. 0.69, p = 0.05). Model B also excelled in "course preparation" (p = 0.02), "webinar quality" (p = 0.04), and "course concept" (p = 0.04). The "gain of competence" (p = 0.82), "learning materials" (p = 0.30), and "tutor quality" (p = 0.28) showed no significant differences. CONCLUSION: participants favorably assessed blended learning in ultrasound teaching. Certifying institutions should consider accrediting models that combine digital methods (e.g., internet lectures/webinars) and materials (e.g., e-learning) with hands-on ultrasound training. Further research is needed to validate these subjective findings for a stronger evidential basis.

Study Protocol of a Prospective, Monocentric, Single-Arm Study Investigating the Safety and Efficacy of Local Ablation of Symptomatic Uterine Fibroids with US-Guided High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU).

Uterine fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the uterus. Approximately 20-50% of women with myomas experience a variety of symptoms such as vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, pelvic pain and pressure, and urological problems, possibly interfering with fertility and pregnancy. Although surgery remains the standard treatment option for fibroids, non-invasive therapeutic options, such as high-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), have emerged over the last dec ade. During HIFU, ultrasound is focused on the target tissue causing coagulation necrosis. HIFU has, meanwhile, become an established method for treating uterine fibroids in many countries. Clinical data have shown that it effectively alleviates fibroid-related symptoms and reduces fibroid size with a very low rate of side effects. However, there is a lack of data on how this treatment affects laboratory parameters and structural features of uterine tissue. As our center is the only one in German-speaking countries where ultrasound-guided HIFU technology is currently established, the aim of this prospective, monocentric, single-arm trial is not only to evaluate the safety and efficacy of local US-guided HIFU in symptomatic uterine fibroid patients according to GCP standards but also to explore its effects on blood parameters and the structural integrity of uterine tissue using elastographic methods.

Lung Ultrasound in Predicting Outcomes in Patients with COVID-19 Treated with Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation.

Pulmonary involvement due to SARS-CoV-2 infection can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome in patients with COVID-19. Consequently, pulmonary imaging is crucial for management of COVID-19. This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of lung ultrasound (LUS) with a handheld ultrasound device (HHUD) in patients with COVID-19 treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Therefore, patients underwent LUS with a HHUD every two days until they were either discharged from the intensive care unit or died. The study was conducted at the University Hospital of Bonn's anesthesiological intensive care ward from December 2020 to August 2021. A total of 33 patients (median [IQR]: 56.0 [53-60.5] years) were included. A high LUS score was associated with a decreased P/F ratio (repeated measures correlation [rmcorr]: -0.26; 95% CI: -0.34, -0.15; p < 0.001), increased extravascular lung water, defined as fluid accumulation in the pulmonary interstitium and alveoli (rmcorr: 0.11; 95% CI: 0.01, 0.20; p = 0.030), deteriorated electrolyte status (base excess: rmcorr: 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.24; p = 0.004; pH: rmcorr: 0.12; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.21; p = 0.001), and decreased pulmonary compliance (rmcorr: -0.10; 95% CI: -0.20, -0.01; p = 0.034). The maximum LUS score was lower in survivors (median difference [md]: -0.35; 95% CI: -0.55, -0.06; p = 0.006). A cutoff value for non-survival was calculated at a LUS score of 2.63. At the time of maximum LUS score, P/F ratio (md: 1.97; 95% CI: 1.12, 2.76; p < 0.001) and pulmonary compliance (md: 18.67; 95% CI: 3.33, 37.15; p = 0.018) were higher in surviving patients. In conclusion, LUS with a HHUD enables continuous evaluation of cardiopulmonary function in COVID-19 patients receiving ECMO support therapy and provides prognostic value in determining the patients' likelihood of survival.

Spectrum and Outcome of Prenatally Diagnosed Fetal Primary Cardiomyopathies-A Twenty-Year Overview.

OBJECTIVE: to assess the course and outcome of fetuses affected by primary cardiomyopathy (CM). METHODS: Retrospective study of 21 cases with prenatal diagnosis of a primary CM in one tertiary center over a period of 20 years. Charts were reviewed for echocardiographic findings, pregnancy outcome, and postnatal course. The utility of prenatal evaluation was discussed. RESULTS: The mean gestational age (GA) at diagnosis was 26.7 (±5.1) weeks. A total of 33.3% (7/21) had associated anomalies. Genetic etiology was confirmed in 50.0% (10/20, with one case lost to follow up). The overall survival rate of the entire study population was 40% (8/20) including termination of pregnancy in 20% (4/20) and an intrauterine mortality rate of 5% (1/20). Of the initial survivors (n = 15), a neonatal and early infant mortality rate of 46.7% (7/15) was calculated. Prenatal isolated right ventricular involvement was the only identified significant parameter for survival (p = 0.035). Four phenotypical groups were identified: 42.9% (9/21) hypertrophic (HCM), 38.1% (8/21) dilated (DCM), 14.3% (3/21) isolated noncompaction (NCCM), and 4.8% (1/21) restrictive CM (RCM). Fetuses assigned to isolated NCCM revealed a 100% survival rate. CONCLUSION: Prenatal detection is feasible but needs to a introduce classification method for better consulting and management practices. A poor outcome is still observed in many cases, but an increase in examiners' awareness may influence optimal multispecialized care.