Placenta accreta

Can 3-dimensional power Doppler indices improve the prenatal diagnosis of a potentially morbidly adherent placenta in patients with placenta previa?

BACKGROUND

Traditionally, 2-dimensional ultrasound parameters have been used for the diagnosis of a suspected morbidly adherent placenta previa. More objective techniques have not been well studied yet.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to determine the ability of prenatal 3-dimensional power Doppler analysis of flow and vascular indices to predict the morbidly adherent placenta objectively.

STUDY DESIGN

A prospective cohort study was performed in women between 28 and 32 gestational weeks with known placenta previa. Patients underwent a two-dimensional gray-scale ultrasound that determined management decisions. 3-Dimensional power Doppler volumes were obtained during the same examination and vascular, flow, and vascular flow indices were calculated after manual tracing of the viewed placenta in the sweep; data were blinded to obstetricians. Morbidly adherent placenta was confirmed by histology. Severe morbidly adherent placenta was defined as increta/percreta on histology, blood loss >2000 mL, and >2 units of PRBC transfused. Sensitivities, specificities, predictive values, and likelihood ratios were calculated. Student t and χ² tests, logistic regression, receiver-operating characteristic curves, and intra- and interrater agreements using Kappa statistics were performed.

RESULTS

The following results were found: (1) 50 women were studied: 23 had morbidly adherent placenta, of which 12 (52.2%) were severe morbidly adherent placenta; (2) 2-dimensional parameters diagnosed morbidly adherent placenta with a sensitivity of 82.6% (95% confidence interval, 60.4-94.2), a specificity of 88.9% (95% confidence interval, 69.7-97.1), a positive predictive value of 86.3% (95% confidence interval, 64.0-96.4), a negative predictive value of 85.7% (95% confidence interval, 66.4-95.3), a positive likelihood ratio of 7.4 (95% confidence interval, 2.5-21.9), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.2 (95% confidence interval, 0.08-0.48); (3) mean values of the vascular index (32.8 ± 7.4) and the vascular flow index (14.2 ± 3.8) were higher in morbidly adherent placenta (P < .001); (4) area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve for the vascular and vascular flow indices were 0.99 and 0.97, respectively; (5) the vascular index ≥21 predicted morbidly adherent placenta with a sensitivity and a specificity of 95% (95% confidence interval, 88.2-96.9) and 91%, respectively (95% confidence interval, 87.5-92.4), 92% positive predictive value (95% confidence interval, 85.5-94.3), 90% negative predictive value (95% confidence interval, 79.9-95.3), positive likelihood ratio of 10.55 (95% confidence interval, 7.06-12.75), and negative likelihood ratio of 0.05 (95% confidence interval, 0.03-0.13); and (6) for the severe morbidly adherent placenta, 2-dimensional ultrasound had a sensitivity of 33.3% (95% confidence interval, 11.3-64.6), a specificity of 81.8% (95% confidence interval, 47.8-96.8), a positive predictive value of 66.7% (95% confidence interval, 24.1-94.1), a negative predictive value of 52.9% (95% confidence interval, 28.5-76.1), a positive likelihood ratio of 1.83 (95% confidence interval, 0.41-8.11), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.81 (95% confidence interval, 0.52-1.26). A vascular index ≥31 predicted the diagnosis of a severe morbidly adherent placenta with a 100% sensitivity (95% confidence interval, 72-100), a 90% specificity (95% confidence interval, 81.7-93.8), an 88% positive predictive value (95% confidence interval, 55.0-91.3), a 100% negative predictive value (95% confidence interval, 90.9-100), a positive likelihood ratio of 10.0 (95% confidence interval, 3.93-16.13), and a negative likelihood ratio of 0 (95% confidence interval, 0-0.34). Intrarater and interrater agreements were 94% (P < .001) and 93% (P < .001), respectively.

CONCLUSION

The vascular index accurately predicts the morbidly adherent placenta in patients with placenta previa. In addition, 3-dimensional power Doppler vascular and vascular flow indices were more predictive of severe cases of morbidly adherent placenta compared with 2-dimensional ultrasound. This objective technique may limit the variations in diagnosing morbidly adherent placenta because of the subjectivity of 2-dimensional ultrasound interpretations.

Pathologically Diagnosed Placenta Accreta and Hemorrhagic Morbidity in a Subsequent Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To identify the relationship between pathologically diagnosed placenta accreta and risk of major morbidity in a subsequent pregnancy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with pathologically diagnosed placenta accreta in an index pregnancy who returned with a subsequent pregnancy at our academic center from 2007 to 2015. Subsequent delivery outcomes included minor, major, or no morbidity. Minor morbidity included estimated blood loss 500-1,500 cc for vaginal and 1,000-1,500 cc for cesarean delivery, transfusion of one to three units of red cells, and minor surgical procedures. Major morbidity included estimated blood loss greater than 1,500 cc, transfusion of greater than three units of red cells, uterine artery embolization, unplanned laparotomy, or hysterectomy.

RESULTS

Three hundred thirty-nine patients with pathologically diagnosed accreta did not undergo hysterectomy, and 39 (11.5%) of these returned for subsequent delivery. Of these, 14 (36%) had accretas that had been identified clinically in the index pregnancy. Twenty-one (54%) experienced morbidity in the index pregnancy, 16 of these (76%) minor and five (24%) major. Of patients without morbidity in the first pregnancy, none experienced major morbidity in a subsequent pregnancy, whereas 6 of 21 (29%) with any index morbidity had a subsequent major morbid outcome (P=.02). Of those with a morbid index delivery, 25% had either a clinical or pathologic accreta diagnosis at follow-up compared with none of those who index accreta was nonmorbid (P=.05).

CONCLUSION

Risk for major hemorrhagic morbidity after a prior pathologically diagnosed accreta depends on the clinical context. Preparation for major blood loss is indicated after any prior pregnancy complicated by hemorrhage or treatment of retained placenta with a pathologic accreta.

When a cesarean section scar is more than an innocent bystander in a subsequent pregnancy: Ultrasound to the rescue

Over the years, cesarean section has played a pivotal role in reducing maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. With the rising trend of this surgery, a substantial number of pregnant women have a cesarean section scar. The scar can serve as the abode of grave conditions in subsequent pregnancies, namely cesarean scar pregnancy, morbidly adherent placenta, and scar dehiscence. Sonography has emerged as a robust tool for the diagnosis of these potentially life-threatening conditions. This review highlights the key sonographic features of various complications that can occur at the cesarean scar site in subsequent pregnancies. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Clin Ultrasound 45:319-327, 2017.

Cervical Length in Patients at Risk for Placenta Accreta

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate cervical length measurements in women with placenta accreta compared to women with a nonadherent low-lying placenta or placenta previa and evaluate this relationship in terms of vaginal bleeding, preterm labor, and preterm birth.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study between 1997 and 2011 of gravidas with more than 1 prior cesarean delivery who had a transvaginal ultrasound examination between 24 and 34 weeks for a low-lying placenta or placenta previa. Cervical length was measured from archived images in accordance with national guidelines by a single investigator, who was blinded to outcomes and ultrasound reports. The diagnosis of placental accreta was based on histologic confirmation. For study purposes, preterm birth was defined as less than 36 weeks, and cervical lengths of 3 cm or less were considered short. Standard statistical analyses were used.

RESULTS

A total of 125 patients met inclusion criteria. The cohort was divided into patients with (n = 43 [34%]) and without (n = 82 [66%]) placenta accreta and stratified by gestational age at the ultrasound examinations. Women with placenta accreta had shorter cervical length measurements during their 32- to 34-week ultrasound examinations (mean ± SD, 3.23 ± 0.98 versus 3.95 ± 1.0 cm; P < .01) and were more likely to have a short cervix of 3 cm or less (P = .001). However, these findings did not correlate with the degree of invasion (P = .3), or higher rates of vaginal bleeding and preterm labor (P = .19) resulting in preterm birth before 36 weeks (P = .64).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with placenta accreta had shorter cervical lengths at 32 to 34 weeks than women with a nonadherent low-lying placenta or placenta previa, but this finding did not correlate with a higher risk of vaginal bleeding or preterm labor resulting in preterm birth before 36 weeks.

Down-regulation of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 expression in invasive placentation

PURPOSE

To confirm reduced expression of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase 1 (sFlt-1) in accreta/increta.

METHODS

Formalin-fixed tissue sections from 11 peripartum hysterectomies with invasive placentation and 5 controls were stained for sFlt-1. Stain intensity was scored in selected 100× microscopic fields. We compared sFlt-1 expression in invasive areas among cases, non-invasive areas among cases and areas from control placentas.

RESULTS

Chorionic villi displayed significantly decreased sFlt-1 expression in invasive areas of cases compared to control placentas (p = 0.003), as well as in non-invasive areas of cases compared to control placentas (p = 0.01). There was no difference in sFlt-1 expression between invasive and non-invasive areas among cases.

CONCLUSIONS

Expression of sFlt-1 is diminished in villous trophoblasts from patients with placenta increta or percreta. Local depth of invasion was not associated with sFlt-1 expression, suggesting a more global abnormality across the implantation site rather than localized to areas of histologic invasion.

Risk of Peripartum Hysterectomy and Center Hysterectomy and Delivery Volume

OBJECTIVE

To characterize where women at risk for and undergoing peripartum hysterectomy delivered in terms of obstetric volume and procedural experience.

METHODS

We used data from the Perspective database to retrospectively evaluate trends in peripartum hysterectomy and deliveries at high risk of peripartum hysterectomy based on placenta previa and prior cesarean delivery delivered from 2006 through 2014. Hospitals were categorized two separate ways for the analysis: 1) into five roughly equal quintiles based on annualized delivery volume and 2) by the mean number of hysterectomies performed annually over the study period.

RESULTS

Four thousand eight hundred eleven hysterectomies occurred among 5,388,486 deliveries in 500 hospitals over the study period. The peripartum hysterectomy rate increased from 81.4 per 100,000 deliveries in 2006 to 98.4 in 2014. The prevalence rate of placenta previa in the setting of previous cesarean delivery also increased over the study period. Between 2006-2008 and 2012-2014, peripartum hysterectomy decreased in the lowest delivery volume quintile and increased in the highest delivery volume quintile (-14.9/100,000 deliveries, 95% confidence interval [CI] -25.6 to -4.2 and +35.4/100,000 deliveries, 95% CI 20.3-50.5, respectively). Similarly, hospitals performing high rates of hysterectomies saw the largest increase over the study period.

CONCLUSION

With peripartum hysterectomy rates increasing in the population, hospitals with high delivery volumes and high rates of hysterectomies saw the largest increases in peripartum hysterectomy rates. These trends support that improved referral practices and uptake of evidence-based recommendations may be occurring.

Multidisciplinary team learning in the management of the morbidly adherent placenta: outcome improvements over time

BACKGROUND

Morbidly adherent placenta (MAP) is a serious obstetric complication causing mortality and morbidity.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate whether outcomes of patients with MAP improve with increasing experience within a well-established multidisciplinary team at a single referral center.

STUDY DESIGN

All singleton pregnancies with pathology-confirmed MAP (including placenta accreta, increta, or percreta) managed by a multidisciplinary team between January 2011 and August 2016 were included in this retrospective study. Turnover of team members was minimal, and cases were divided into 2 time periods so as to compare 2 similarly sized groups: T1 = January 2011 to April 2014 and T2 = May 2014 to August 2016. Outcome variables were estimated blood loss, units of red blood cell transfused, volume of crystalloid transfused, massive transfusion protocol activation, ureter and bowel injury, and neonatal birth weight. Comparisons and adjustments were made by use of the Student t test, Mann-Whitney U test, χ² test, analysis of covariance, and multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 118 singleton pregnancies, 59 in T1 and 59 in T2, were managed during the study period. Baseline patient characteristics were not statistically significant. Forty-eight of 59 (81.4%) patients in T1 and 42 of 59 (71.2%) patients in T2 were diagnosed with placenta increta/percreta. The median [interquartile range] estimated blood loss (T1: 2000 [1475-3000] vs T2: 1500 [1000-2700], P = .04), median red blood cell transfusion units (T1: 2.5 [0-7] vs T2: 1 [0-4], P = .02), and median crystalloid transfusion volume (T1: 4200 [3600-5000] vs T2: 3400 [3000-4000], P < .01) were significantly less in T2. Also, a massive transfusion protocol was instituted more frequently in T1: 15/59 (25.4%) vs 3/59 (5.1%); P < .01. Neonatal outcomes and surgical complications were similar between the 2 groups.

CONCLUSION

Our study shows that patient outcomes are improved over time with increasing experience within a well-established multidisciplinary team performing 2-3 cases per month. This suggests that small, collective changes in team dynamics lead to continuous improvement of clinical outcomes. These findings support the development of centers of excellence for MAP staffed by stable, core multidisciplinary teams, which should perform a significant number of these procedures on an ongoing basis.

Prophylactic occlusion balloon placement in internal iliac arteries for the prevention of postpartum haemorrhage due to morbidly adherent placenta: short term outcomes

PURPOSE

To evaluate outcomes of uterine conserving surgery with occlusion balloon technique. A critical review of the complications was performed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 2010 and 2016, pregnant women, with a prenatal diagnosis of morbidly adherent placenta (MAP), were treated with occlusion balloon catheters in both internal iliac arteries. Parameters such as need for hysterectomy, incidence of PPH, grade of MAP, estimated blood loss during delivery (EBL) and transfusion requirements, mean recovery time and duration of the balloon inflation, were collected and reviewed. Complications requiring further management were analysed.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven women with MAP underwent prophylactic occlusion balloon placement (POBC). Mean recovery was 4.48 days (range 2-10). Catheters were successfully positioned and balloons inflated in obstetric theatre following caesarean delivery in 100% of the cases. The uterus was conserved in every case. The MAP grades were 20 percreta, 3 increta and 14 accreta. The EBL was not statistically different between the different grades of placentation. There was a statistically significant association in the number of patients requiring blood transfusions and the degree of placental invasion (p = 0. 0119). PPH occurred in 5 patients (13.5%) and arterial thrombosis in 4 patients (11%). The EBL during delivery was significantly higher (2811 mL) in patients with complications (p = 0.0102). Furthermore, the group of patients that had complications required statistically significant more blood transfusions compared to those without complications (p = 0.0001). No maternal mortality or foetal morbidity occurred.

CONCLUSION

The utilisation of Prophylactic occlusion balloon catheters allows uterine conserving surgery to be performed safely with few maternal complications.

Patient selection for later delivery timing with suspected previa-accreta

INTRODUCTION

We identified patients with previa and suspected accreta who are at lowest risk of unscheduled delivery or major morbidity with planned delivery beyond 34 weeks' gestation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study of patients who had reached 34.0 weeks' gestational age with a suspected previa-accreta. We evaluated rates of unscheduled and emergent delivery based on known risk factors for premature birth. In a second analysis, we stratified patients based on level of preoperative morbidity concern and evaluated rates of major transfusion and Intensive Care Unit admission by delivery week (34 weeks, 35 weeks or 36 weeks and beyond).

RESULTS

Of 84 available patients, we classified 31 patients as low risk for unscheduled delivery and 52 as high risk. The low risk group was scheduled later (36.6 vs. 36.0 weeks; p < 0.01), but demonstrated lower rates of unscheduled delivery prior to 36 weeks (3% vs. 19%, p = 0.05). Of the patients with no prior cesarean section, only one (7%) experienced massive blood loss even though 36% had unscheduled deliveries. We observed no significant increase in major transfusion or massive blood loss with advancing gestational age, likely due to selection of the most concerning patients for early, scheduled delivery.

CONCLUSION

Patients with suspected previa-accreta and no risk factors for preterm birth are at low risk for an unscheduled delivery prior to 36 weeks. Those with no concern for percreta or increta or no prior cesarean section may also be candidates for later delivery.

Cesarean Hysterectomy and Uterine-Preserving Alternatives

Hysterectomy at the time of an obstetric delivery or postpartum is an uncommon time to perform one of the most common gynecologic procedures. Hysterectomy associated with pregnancy is often unplanned and undesired. Postpartum complications associated with the need for hysterectomy carry significant risks, which pose challenges for mother-infant bonding and can signify an unexpected end to fertility. The most common indication for hysterectomy is postpartum hemorrhage. Postpartum hemorrhage is caused by uterine atony, genital tract laceration, uterine rupture, invasive placentation, infection, or coagulopathy. Multidisciplinary teams improve outcomes and are capable of managing complex medical and surgical complications that occur postpartum.

Histopathology of Placenta Creta: Chorionic Villi Intrusion into Myometrial Vascular Spaces and Extravillous Trophoblast Proliferation are Frequent and Specific Findings With Implications for Diagnosis and Pathogenesis

Placenta creta is characterized by invasion of placental villi into the myometrium in the setting of a dysfunctional or absent decidua. Histopathologic diagnosis of placenta creta is important, particularly in cases of hysterectomy because of unanticipated intractable postpartum hemorrhage. Previous studies have documented a higher amount and depth of myometrial infiltration by the implantation site intermediate trophoblast compared with controls. In addition, we have anecdotally observed chorionic villi in myometrial vascular spaces in specimens with placenta creta. The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence and specificity of these features. Sixty-one postpartum hysterectomies, 44 with placenta creta and 17 without were reviewed. Villous intrusion into vascular spaces was recorded. Using immunohistochemistry for GATA3, the amount of intermediate trophoblast (number of positive cells in five 40× fields) and depth of trophoblast myometrial infiltration were assessed. Mean gestational ages of the creta group (34.4 yr; range, 20-43 yr) and control group (35 yr; range, 25-51 yr) were comparable. Presence of chorionic villi in myometrial vascular spaces was frequent in placenta creta: 31/44 versus 1/17 controls (70.4% vs. 5.8%, P<0.0001). This finding was more common in the percreta (87.5%) and increta (84%) than in the accreta (27.2%, P=0.0008). Mean depth of trophoblast myometrial invasion was greater in cretas (47.9%) than in controls (14.5%, P=0.004). Likewise, mean distance of deepest trophoblast to serosa was shorter in the cretas (7.3 mm) than in controls (23.8 mm, P<0.0001). These differences were, however, attributable to placentas increta and percreta. When only accretas and controls were compared, the myometrial depth of trophoblast was similar. The mean intermediate trophoblast cell count in the placental bed was greater in cretas (664) than in controls (288, P<0.0001). Such difference was seen in all creta cases despite the type (accreta 639, increta 676, percreta 661). A trophoblast count of ≥100 cells/high-power field was seen in 75.8% of cretas and 11.1% of controls (P=0.0009). For the first time, we document the finding of chorionic villi intrusion into myometrial vascular spaces, which is highly specific of placenta creta. In addition, assessment of the amount of intermediate trophoblast using GATA3 immunohistochemistry can assist in the diagnosis. We hypothesize that placental invasion in placenta creta is due, at least partially, to transformation of low-resistance myometrial vessels leading to subsequent protrusion of villi into their lumens, in the context of absent decidua.

Prevalence of abnormally invasive placenta among deliveries in mainland China: A PRISMA-compliant Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) or placenta accreta (PA) is considered numerous adverse maternal and fetal-neonatal complications. There has been no detailed study to characterize the prevalence of AIP among deliveries in mainland China.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to fill this gap and obtained overall and regional estimates of AIP prevalence via a systematic review and meta-analysis.

METHODS

This systematic review and meta-analysis was totally performed following the Meta-analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines for systematic reviews of observational studies, and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis statement for reporting systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 23 articles (including 350,939) were included. Most studies (22) focused on the placenta increta (PI), only 2 articles in PA, and none in placenta percreta (PP). In this meta-analysis, the overall prevalence of AIP was 0.22% (95% confidence interval 0.18%-0.27%) in a heterogeneous set of studies (I = 93.5%). In a subgroup, the prevalence of PA and PI was 0.48% and 0.23%, respectively. Stratified analyses of PI found that the prevalence was similar in North (0.23% [0.14%-0.32%]) and South (0.23% [0.15%-0.32%]), and lower in Central (0.20% [0.09-0.31%]); the inlanders (0.17% (0.12%-0.23%]) had a lower prevalence of PI than those living in coastal areas (0.24% [0.35%-0.63%]). As time goes on, the prevalence, from 0.03% (0.02%-0.04%) in 1970 to 1979 to 0.48% (0.30%-0.66%) in 2010 to present, was higher and higher. The different prevalence was also found in different in maternal age groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This first systematic review and meta-analysis found that the prevalence differed among different geographic areas and maternal age groups. The results would be useful for the design of abnormally invasive placenta planning and implementation adequate health care systems and treatment programs in mainland China.

Uterine Artery Embolization for Management of Primary Postpartum Hemorrhage Associated with Placenta Accreta

Objective To evaluate the efficacy and safety of uterine artery embolization (UAE) in the management of primary postpartum hemorrhage associated with placenta accreta. Methods We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of patients with placenta accreta between January 2010 and August 2014. Totally 18 women (mean age 30.8±4.2 years) of primary massive postpartum hemorrhage with diagnosis of placenta accrete received treatment of UAE after delivery. Images of DSA and medical records were reviewed. Technical success was defined as control of bleeding after embolization. The complications, control of hemorrhage and recurrent bleeding of the placenta left inside the uterus were retrospectively collected for assessment. Results All patients underwent transcatheter embolization of bilateral uterine arteries. The technical success rate of embolization was 100%. Bleeding was controlled in 17 of 18 patients (94%) during follow-up period (median 18 months, 3-31months) without further bleeding recurred. One patient with placenta percreta undertook an emergent hysterectomy along with surgical bladder repair after UAE because of persistent uterine bleeding. Eight patients had postembolization syndrome and no other complications occurred. Conclusion Uterine artery embolization is an effective and safe treatment for the management of primary postpartum massive hemorrhage associated with placenta accreta.

Aortic balloon occlusion for controlling intraoperative hemorrhage in patients with placenta previa increta/percreta

BACKGROUND/AIMS

To investigate whether abdominal aortic balloon occlusion (ABO) effectively reduces intraoperative hemorrhage in patents with placenta previa increta/increta.

METHODS

Forty-three women were diagnosed as placenta previa increta/percreta by ultrasound and MRI. These patients' assessments were taken by their chief physician, and they were under necessity of previous cesarean section as confirmed by the committee of experts during consultation. There was no significant difference in disease risk rating between them in whole process. Although our department provided a more appropriate method, 10 of 43 patients chose intraoperative aortic balloon occlusion (IABO). Other 33 patients who refused that suggestion were considered as control group. Fully informed consents were obtained from all patients in this study group. The intraoperative blood loss, blood transfusion, rate of hysterectomy and complications of mothers and fetus of IABO group and control group were analyzed.

RESULTS

The median intraoperative blood loss was 1000 ml in the IABO group compared with 2000 ml in the control group (p < 0.05). The median volume of transfused red blood cells was 1100 ml in the IABO group compared with 2000 ml in the control group (p < 0.05). 33.3% (11/33) patients in the control group had hemorrhagic shock, and one of them suffered from cardiac arrest intraoperatively because of severe bleeding. However, none of these serious events occurred in the IABO group (p < 0.05). The hysterectomy rate was 70% (7/10) in the IABO group and 63.3% (21/33) in the control group (p > 0.05). No IABO-related complications were observed in the mother and fetus.

CONCLUSION

IABO is an effective and safe method to control intraoperative blood loss and blood transfusion in patients with placenta previa increta/percreta.

Relationship between first trimester aneuploidy screening test serum analytes and placenta accreta

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to determine whether there is a relationship between first trimester serum pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and free beta human chorionic gonadotropin (fβhCG) MoM values and placenta accreta in women who had placenta previa.

STUDY DESIGN

A total of 88 patients with placenta previa who had first trimester aneuploidy screening test results were enrolled in the study. Nineteen of these patients were also diagnosed with placenta accreta. As probable markers of excessive placental invasion, serum PAPP-A and fβhCG MoM values were compared in two groups with and without placenta accreta.

RESULTS

Patients with placenta accreta had higher statistically significant serum PAPP-A (1.20 versus 0.865, respectively, p = 0.045) and fβhCG MoM (1.42 versus 0.93, respectively, p = 0.042) values than patients without accreta.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher first trimester serum PAPP-A and fβhCG MoM values seem to be associated with placenta accreta in women with placenta previa. Further studies are needed to use these promising additional tools for early detection of placenta accreta.

Minimizing blood loss at cesarean-hysterectomy for placenta previa percreta

Preventing blood loss at the time of a cesarean delivery during a scheduled, nonemergent cesarean hysterectomy for placenta percreta may reduce the need for crystalloid and blood product transfusion. Commonly a classical hysterotomy is created and this can result in as much as a 500-800 mL blood loss before the hysterotomy is closed. Our technique involves placement of 4 full-thickness interrupted sutures in a box pattern to create an unperfused area of upper uterine segment. Diathermy is used to open the uterus to the membranes in the center of the "box" without blood loss. A finger is then inserted between the membranes and uterus to create a space into which 1 side of an 80-mm linear cutting stapler is introduced. The other side of the stapler is then attached and clamped closed, and the stapler is activated. Forward motion of the lever lays down 2 rows of staples, and backward movement of the lever divides the uterine muscle between the 2 staple lines. The stapler is removed and reloaded and reintroduced 1 or 2 times as needed to create an avascular hysterotomy large enough to atraumatically deliver the baby. The membranes are then opened and the baby is delivered. Following this the umbilical cord is clamped and cut without any attempt to remove the placenta, replaced in the uterine cavity, and the hysterotomy is closed with a running locked suture that incorporates the membrane edges. The hysterectomy then proceeds. In most cases there is minimal blood loss (usually <20 mL) from the cesarean delivery.

Abnormal placentation: the role of MRI in diagnosis and therapeutic planning

AIM

To evaluate the role of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for diagnosis and therapeutic planning in patients with abnormal placentation (AP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Overall, 168 consecutive patients with suspected placenta previa and AP were referred for MRI before caesarean section (CS). The ability of MRI to properly detect and assess abnormal placentation was correlated with findings at CS, which were considered the reference standard diagnostic tool. For each patient, MRI was used to determine whether the AP was suitable for complete/incomplete delivery, hysterectomy, or conservative treatment. Treatment planning with MRI was prospectively compared with the actual treatment that had been carried out in each patient decided at CS.

RESULTS

Placenta previa was detected at MRI in 63 patients and AP in 105 patients; 16 patients had false-positive MRI findings, and three had false-negative findings. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of MRI compared to findings at CS were 88.9% (149 of 168), 96.7% (89 of 92), 78.9% (60 of 76), 84.8% (89 of 105), and 95.2% (60 of 63), respectively. Treatment planning could be correctly made on the basis of MRI with accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of 97%, 100%, 92.6%, 95.2%, and 100%, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

MRI offers high diagnostic accuracy in the detection of AP, and it may be helpful in the detailed planning of treatment.

Placenta Percreta and Incomplete Uterine Rupture after Endometrial Ablation and Tubal Occlusion

Endometrial ablation offers symptomatic relief for menorrhagia. Pregnancy after ablation is rare but is often complicated due to pregnancy loss, growth restriction, preterm premature rupture of membranes, preterm delivery, and morbidly adherent placentation, a dangerous complication that can result in hemorrhage, intensive care unit admission, and cesarean hysterectomy. We report a case of pregnancy conceived contemporaneously with endometrial ablation and tubal occlusion. Diagnosis of pregnancy was delayed due to low suspicion. Complications included cervical implantation and placenta percreta, necessitating hysterectomy with the fetus in situ. Intraoperatively, incomplete uterine rupture was noted. Abnormal neovascularization, fibrous adhesions, and anatomical distortion necessitated a complex surgical approach. Women undergoing endometrial ablation must be thoroughly counseled about the serious risks of postablation pregnancy, the need for contraception, and the risk of sterilization failure. Pregnancy should remain in the differential diagnosis for women of reproductive age, regardless of tubal occlusion. Cases of placenta percreta should be referred early to centers of excellence with multidisciplinary teams.

Obstetric hemorrhage survey: Attitudes and practices of maternal-fetal medicine fellows

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate experiences related to obstetric hemorrhage and suspected abnormal placentation among first year maternal-fetal medicine fellows.

STUDY DESIGN

A cross-sectional anonymous survey was administered at the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine fellow retreat in March 2013. Fellows were asked about management strategies that reflected both their individual and institutional practices.

RESULTS

There was a 56% response rate (55/98). In cases of postpartum hemorrhage due to uterine atony, there was variable use of the uterine tamponade device. The median incremental time for balloon deflation was every 5 hours (IQR = 2-12). Compared to the east coast, fellows from the west coast performed more hysterectomies (mean±SD; 2.9±2.4 vs. 1.2±1.2, p = 0.004). During a peripartum hysterectomy, 29% of fellows used a handheld cautery device such as Ligasure® or Gyrus®. Fifty-six percent responded that their institution never recommend planned delayed hysterectomies for abnormal placental implantation.

CONCLUSION

There is wide variation in practice among first year maternal-fetal medicine fellows in management of peripartum hysterectomy and postpartum hemorrhage.

Placenta accreta following hysteroscopic myomectomy

Hardly any report exists on the influence of hysteroscopic myomectomy on subsequent pregnancy. Placenta accreta is most often associated with placenta previa in women with multiple prior cesarean sections. We report the first case of placenta accreta without placenta previa during the first pregnancy subsequent to hysteroscopic myomectomy.

Israeli survey of anesthesia practice related to placenta previa and accreta

BACKGROUND

Anesthesia practices for placenta previa (PP) and accreta (PA) impact hemorrhage management and other supportive strategies. We conducted a survey to assess reported management of PP and PA in all Israeli labor and delivery units.

METHODS

After Institutional Review Board waiver, we surveyed all 26 Israeli hospitals with a labor and delivery unit by directly contacting the representatives of obstetric anesthesiology services in every department (unit director or department chair). Each director surveyed provided information about the anesthetic and transfusion management in their labor and delivery units for three types of abnormal placentation based on antenatal placental imaging: PP, low suspicion for PA, and high suspicion for PA. The primary outcome was use of neuraxial or general anesthesia for PP and PA Cesarean delivery. Univariate statistics were used for survey responses using counts and percentages.

RESULTS

The response rate was 100%. Spinal anesthesia is the preferred anesthetic mode for PP cases, used in 17/26 (65.4%) of labor and delivery units. By comparison, most representatives reported that they perform general anesthesia for patients with PA: 18/26 (69.2%) for all low suspicion cases of PA and 25/26 (96.2%) for all high suspicion cases of PA. Although a massive transfusion protocol was available in the majority of hospitals (84.6%), the availability of thromboelastography and cell salvage was much lower (53.8% and 19.2% hospitals respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

In our survey, representatives of anesthesia labor and delivery services in Israel are almost exclusively using general anesthesia for women with high suspicion for PA; however, almost two-thirds use spinal anesthesia for PP without suspicion of PA. Among representatives, we found wide variations in anesthesia practice patterns with regard to anesthesia mode, multidisciplinary management, and hemorrhage anticipation strategies.

Placenta accreta spectrum: accreta, increta, and percreta

Placenta accreta can lead to hemorrhage, resulting in hysterectomy, blood transfusion, multiple organ failure, and death. Accreta has been increasing steadily in incidence owing to an increase in the cesarean delivery rate. Major risk factors are placenta previa in women with prior cesarean deliveries. Obstetric ultrasonography can be used to diagnose placenta accreta antenatally, which allows for scheduled delivery in a multidisciplinary center of excellence for accreta. Controversies exist regarding optimal management, including optimal timing of delivery, surgical approach, use of adjunctive measures, and conservative (uterine-sparing) therapy. We review the definition, risk factors, diagnosis, management, and controversies regarding placenta accreta.

A Marked Increase in Obstetric Hysterectomy for Placenta Accreta

Background:

Obstetric hysterectomy (OH) as a lifesaving measure to manage uncontrolled uterine hemorrhage appears to be increasing recently. The objective of this study was to determine the etiology and changing trends of OH and to identify those at particular risk of OH to enhance the early involvement of multidisciplinary intensive care.

Methods:

A retrospective study was carried out in patients who had OH in China-Japan Friendship Hospital from 2004 to 2014. Maternal characteristics, preoperative evaluation, operative reports, and prenatal outcomes were studied in detail.

Results:

There were 19 cases of OH among a total of 18,838 deliveries. Comparing the study periods between 2004–2010 and 2011–2014, OH increased from 0.8/1000 (10/12,890) to 1.5/1000 (9/5948). Indications for OH have changed significantly during this study period with uterine atony decreasing from 50.0% (5/10) to 11.1% (1/9) (P < 0.05), and placenta accreta as the indication for OH has increased significantly from 20.0% (2/10) to 77.8% (7/9) (P < 0.05). Ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have been used to make an exact antepartum diagnosis of placenta accreta. A multidisciplinary management led to improved outcomes for patients with placenta accreta.

Conclusion:

As the multiple cesarean delivery rates have risen, there has been a dramatic increase in OH for placenta accreta. An advance antenatal diagnosis of ultrasonography, and MRI, and a multidisciplinary teamwork can maximize patients’ safety and outcome.

Surgical management of 58 patients with placenta praevia percreta

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study is to present our experience with surgical management of placenta praevia percreta.

METHODS

This study was conducted from January 2009 through March 2014 at Harran University Hospital and was a chart review of all patients who underwent caesarean hysterectomy with the placenta left in situ for placenta praevia percreta.

RESULTS

The study group comprised 58 patients. All of the patients underwent ultrasound mapping of the placental area before surgery. Emergent caesarean hysterectomy was only performed in 9 patients; 49 patients underwent planned caesarean hysterectomy. Bilateral internal iliac artery ligation was performed in all cases. Four patients (6.9 %) had bladder damage, one patient (1.7 %) required cystotomy, and one patient (1.7 %) required re-operation because of postoperative hemorrhage. The mean operative time was 141.6 (range: 95-355) minutes. Only 17 (29.3 %) patients were administered more than four units of red blood cells. There was no ureteral damage or maternal death. Furthermore, there were no complications in 42 (72.4 %) patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Caesarean hysterectomy for placenta praevia percreta is associated with increased maternal morbidity. However, preoperative diagnosis of placenta praevia percreta, ultrasound mapping of the placenta, and the presence of a multidisciplinary experienced team may decrease maternal morbidity and mortality. Moreover, the urinary system may be protected in the patients with placenta praevia percreta without serious morbidity.

Changing trends in emergency peripartum hysterectomy in a tertiary obstetric center in Turkey during 2000-2013

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH) cases over a 14-year period in a tertiary center in İstanbul, Turkey.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this retrospective descriptive study, the records of all cases of EPH performed at the Zeynep Kamil Women and Children's Training and Research Hospital between January 2000 and January 2014 were analyzed. Results for 2000-2006 and 2007-2013 were compared to identify changing trends. Demographic and clinical factors associated with EPH were assessed.

RESULTS

During the 14-year study period, a total of 161,836 births occurred, out of which 104,783 (64.8%) were vaginal deliveries and 57,053 (35.2%) were cesarean section (CS). EPH was performed in 81 patients with an overall incidence of 0.5 in 1000 deliveries. The EPH rate in 2007-2013 (0.07%) was significantly higher than in 2000-2006 (0.03%). The major difference in the EPH populations between the two periods was the higher number of previous CS in 2007-2013 compared with 2000-2006 (p=0.01). Indications for EPH did not differ between the two periods. There were 7 (8.6%) maternal deaths in 2000-2013, with significantly fewer maternal deaths in 2007-2013 than in 2000-2006 (19.2% vs. 3.6%).

CONCLUSION

Rate of EPH increased considerably from 2000 to 2013. This increase was mostly related to the increasing rate of CS. Indications for EPH did not change over the study period, and the number of maternal deaths markedly decreased.

Caesarean hysterectomy for placenta praevia/accreta using an approach via the pouch of Douglas

Placenta praevia/accreta is associated with significant maternal morbidity and mortality and is a common cause of obstetric hysterectomy. This paper describes posterior retrograde abdominal hysterectomy, a new surgical technique for caesarean hysterectomy, in 11 women with placenta percreta, increta or accreta There were no intraoperative or postoperative maternal complications, and only one fetus required admission to the neonatal unit, for prematurity. Our technique in placenta praevia/accreta allows easy identification of the vagina and early uterine devascularisation, as well as safe resection of the involved urinary bladder in women with placenta percreta showing bladder penetration. Analytical studies are needed to confirm our findings.

Tweetable abstract

Posterior retrograde abdominal hysterectomy in women with placenta praevia/accreta may enable safer surgery.

Posterior retrograde abdominal hysterectomy in women with placenta praevia/accreta may enable safer surgery.