Shirodkar

Shirodkar is a surname of Indian origin, most common among Konkani-speaking communities in western coastal India, particularly in Goa and nearby areas of Maharashtra and Karnataka. The name is associated with families across various professions and regions within India and the diaspora.

In medicine, Shirodkar cerclage refers to a cervical cerclage technique developed in the mid-20th century to prevent pregnancy loss due to cervical insufficiency. The procedure involves placing a purse-string suture around the cervix at the level of the internal os to reinforce it, usually during the second trimester in women with a history of recurrent midtrimester losses. The original Shirodkar technique is typically performed by vaginal approach and is one of two classic cervical cerclage methods, the other being the McDonald cerclage.

Over time, the McDonald method has become more commonly used due to its simpler technique and shorter operative time, while the Shirodkar approach may still be employed in selected cases or when tissue quality dictates. Complications can include bleeding, infection, rupture of membranes, or preterm delivery. The goal of cervical cerclage, including the Shirodkar technique, is to reduce the risk of second-trimester loss and preterm birth.

See also: cervical cerclage; McDonald cerclage.