Related Experiment Video
Updated: Oct 21, 2025
06:43
High Frequency Ultrasound for the Analysis of Fetal and Placental Development In Vivo
Published on: November 8, 2018
10.5K
Alvarez waves in pregnancy: a comprehensive review
Sara Russo1, Arnaldo Batista1,2, Filipa Esgalhado1,3
1Faculdade de Ciências e Tecnologia da Universidade Nova de Lisboa, Campus de Caparica, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal.
Biophysical Reviews
|September 2, 2021
Summary
Alvarez waves, rhythmic uterine contractions, are studied for their link to labor initiation. While some studies suggest a connection, others find low predictive value, especially for preterm birth.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Obstetrics & Gynecology
- Reproductive Medicine
Background:
- Alvarez waves are high-frequency, low-intensity myometrial contractions.
- Detection methods include tocography and electrohysterography.
- Their role in labor initiation, particularly preterm birth, is debated.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and critically analyze the current state of research on Alvarez waves.
- To summarize findings regarding the relationship between Alvarez waves and labor initiation.
- To assess the predictive value of Alvarez waves for preterm labor.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review.
- Categorization of publications into three groups: (A) morphology/characterization, (B) positive causality with labor, (C) absence of causality.
- Critical analysis of existing studies.
Main Results:
- Numerous studies have characterized Alvarez waves.
- More publications support a causal relationship between Alvarez waves and labor than refute it.
- Research spans multiple disciplines including medical science and engineering.
Conclusions:
- The relationship between Alvarez waves and labor initiation remains a complex and multidisciplinary area of study.
- While evidence suggests a link, definitive causality and predictive value for preterm labor require further investigation.
Related Concept Videos
01:07Teratogenicity
3.1K
The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
3.1K
01:17Ultrasonography
6.6K
Ultrasonography is an imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to visualize the body's internal structures. It is a non-invasive and safe procedure that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation, making it widely used in various medical fields. Ultrasonography is used to study heart function, blood flow in the neck or extremities, certain conditions such as gallbladder disease, and fetal growth and development.
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called...
During an ultrasonography procedure, a handheld device called...
6.6K
01:33Hormonal Regulation
34.2K
The renin-aldosterone system is an endocrine system which guides the renal absorption of water and electrolytes, thus managing blood pressure and osmoregulation. Activation of the system begins in the kidneys with a small cluster of cells adjacent to the afferent and efferent blood vessels of the renal corpuscle. As the nephrons are filtering blood, juxtaglomerular cells monitor blood pressure. If they detect a decrease in pressure, they release the hormone renin into the bloodstream.
34.2K
01:19Mitral Valve Prolapse III: Nursing Management
69
The nursing management of Mitral Valve Prolapse, or MVP, centers around patient education, symptom monitoring, and lifestyle modifications.Patient Education on MVP Diagnosis and Heredity: Nurses should provide comprehensive education about MVP, a condition where the mitral valve does not close appropriately during heartbeats. This education often includes the condition's pathophysiology, symptoms, and potential complications, like arrhythmias or mitral regurgitation. Though not fully...
69
01:20Ultrasound I: Abdominal Ultrasonography
505
Introduction:
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
Abdominal ultrasonography, commonly known as abdominal ultrasound, is a vital, non-invasive medical imaging technique widely used in healthcare.
Procedure:
This diagnostic tool allows the clinician to visually inspect internal structures within the abdomen, including vital organs such as the liver, gallbladder, pancreas, kidneys, and spleen.
The abdominal ultrasound process begins with applying a special gel to the patient's skin over the abdomen. This gel enhances the...
505
01:14Fetal Circulation
1.7K
Fetal circulation is a unique system that facilitates the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the developing fetus and the mother. This intricate process takes place through a special organ called the placenta.
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
1.7K