"Velamentous" insertion

Seen here is a "velamentous" insertion of the umbilical cord in which the major umbilical vessels break up in the fetal membranes before reaching the placental disk. Such a condition is of no major consequence in utero, but could lead to a greater chance for cord trauma with bleeding during delivery. Dividing membranes are see at the left in this twin placenta.

Edward C. Klatt, M.D.

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