Fetal death secondary to constriction and torsion of the umbilical cord.

Constriction and torsion of the umbilical cord is a cause of fetal death that is seldom noted. A stillborn fetus with these changes is described. The literature is reviewed. A localized absence of Wharton's jelly in the involved area of the cord is believed to be the etiologic factor in the constriction and subsequent torsion.