The placenta and umbilical cord are the lifelines of pregnancy, yet their assessment is often cursory during routine obstetric ultrasound. This practical workshop will focus on a systematic approach to evaluating placental structure, location, and function, alongside detailed assessment of the umbilical cord and related pathologies.
Through case-based discussion and live scanning demonstration, participants will review key sonographic features of normal placental and cord development, as well as important variations and pathologies including variations in cord insertion, placental morphology, and conditions associated with placental insufficiency. Emphasis will be placed on techniques that improve recognition of clinically significant findings, reinforcing the critical role of placental and cord assessment in optimising maternal–fetal outcomes.