Efficacy of Frozen Section Technique as a Rapid Diagnostic Tool in the Diagnosis of Funisitis in Premature Deliveries.

INTRODUCTION

Presence of leucocytic infiltration in perivascular area or in Wharton jelly indicates funisitis. While conventional histopathological examination is the gold standard, its time delay hampers timely intervention. The frozen section technique offers a rapid alternative, enabling clinicians to promptly manage preterm early onset sepsis.

METHODS

This is a prospective study of 18 months. 125 preterms analyzed. Frozen sections and conventional sections of umbilical cord prepared and examined for inflammation by two researchers. Diagnostic accuracy of frozen sections versus conventional sections evaluated for sensitivity and specificity in detecting funisitis.

RESULTS

The frozen section of the umbilical cord was 85.5% sensitive and 86.7% specific in diagnosing funisitis. The inter-rater agreement for diagnosing funisitis was 72.2%. Funisitis on frozen section was 82.2% sensitive and 26.3% specific in diagnosing neonatal sepsis.

CONCLUSION

Frozen section examination of umbilical cord has good diagnostic ability in detecting funisitis. The inter-rater agreement is substantial.