Evaluating cervical tissue strength using advanced ultrasound techniques

Assessment of Uterine Cervical Insufficiency using 4D Contrast-Enhanced Ultrasound

['FUNDING_R21'] · THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10988513

This study is looking at a new way to check the strength of the cervix in pregnant women who might be at risk for complications, using a special type of ultrasound to help doctors better understand how to support healthy pregnancies.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTHOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10988513 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates cervical insufficiency, a condition where the cervix cannot support a pregnancy during the second trimester. It aims to develop a new diagnostic approach using 4D contrast-enhanced ultrasound to assess the strength of cervical tissue, which is currently difficult to measure objectively. By analyzing the collagen content and cellular structure of cervical tissue, the study seeks to identify weaknesses that could lead to pregnancy complications. This innovative method may provide critical insights into cervical function before pregnancy, potentially improving outcomes for at-risk patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are women who have experienced cervical insufficiency or mid-trimester pregnancy loss and are seeking to understand their cervical health.

Not a fit: Patients who are not pregnant or those without a history of cervical insufficiency may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools for identifying women at risk of cervical insufficiency, ultimately improving pregnancy outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have indicated that assessing collagen content in cervical tissue can provide valuable insights, suggesting that this approach may yield successful outcomes.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.