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Kennedy A, Debbink M, Griffith A, Kaiser J, Woodward P. Cesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy: A Do-Not-Miss Diagnosis. Radiographics 2024; 44:e230199. [PMID: 38843098 DOI: 10.1148/rg.230199] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
The rate of cesarean section (CS) for delivery has increased internationally, reaching 50% in some countries. Abnormal implantation of a new pregnancy at the site of the prior hysterotomy is an important complication because of the risks of hemorrhage, uterine rupture, and progression to placenta accreta spectrum (PAS), a condition with high morbidity with potential for catastrophic obstetric hemorrhage, maternal and fetal mortality, and loss of fertility. Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy (CSEP) is the recommended term to describe these pregnancies, which are recognized on the basis of the sac implantation site, growth pattern, and associated abnormal perfusion. The true incidence of CSEP is unknown because the condition is likely underdiagnosed and underreported. The 2022 Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine consult series notes that severe maternal morbidity and mortality are linked to difficulty in making the diagnosis of CSEP. The authors review the signs of CSEP at imaging, some pitfalls that may lead to delayed or missed diagnosis, and the consequences thereof. CSEPs must be differentiated from low implantation of a normal pregnancy, cervical ectopic pregnancy, and evolving pregnancy loss. Early recognition allows prompt and safe treatment that is usually surgical. Early treatment results in decreased health care costs, a shorter hospital stay, preservation of fertility, and prevention of iatrogenic preterm delivery, which is typical in cases that progress to PAS. Hysterectomy has serious negative psychologic consequences for patients of childbearing age; early diagnosis and prompt treatment of CSEP can prevent this often-ignored complication. ©RSNA, 2024 Supplemental material is available for this article.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Kennedy
- From the Departments of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (A.K., A.G., P.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.D., J.K.), University of Utah Hospital, 30 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Michelle Debbink
- From the Departments of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (A.K., A.G., P.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.D., J.K.), University of Utah Hospital, 30 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - April Griffith
- From the Departments of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (A.K., A.G., P.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.D., J.K.), University of Utah Hospital, 30 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Jennifer Kaiser
- From the Departments of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (A.K., A.G., P.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.D., J.K.), University of Utah Hospital, 30 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
| | - Paula Woodward
- From the Departments of Radiology and Imaging Sciences (A.K., A.G., P.W.) and Obstetrics and Gynecology (M.D., J.K.), University of Utah Hospital, 30 N Medical Dr, Salt Lake City, UT 84132
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Karbasi M, Aletaha R, Ahangar‐Sirous R, Alamdari AH, Gharepapagh E, Rezaei S. A rare case report of heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy in the 8th week of gestation that was managed successfully by exploratory laparotomy with dilation and curettage. Clin Case Rep 2024; 12:e9025. [PMID: 38831983 PMCID: PMC11144611 DOI: 10.1002/ccr3.9025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2024] [Revised: 05/16/2024] [Accepted: 05/20/2024] [Indexed: 06/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Key Clinical Message Swift and precise identification of heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy, coupled with standardized treatment approaches for handling possible serious complications, form an essential component in reaching favorable outcomes for patients experiencing this rare type of pregnancy. Abstract Heterotopic pregnancy (HP) denotes a form of multiple gestation where intrauterine and ectopic pregnancies coexist. Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy, on the other hand, involves the implantation of a fetus over the previous cesarean scar. This condition poses a significant risk of uterine rupture, which may lead to serious health complications, and even death. We report a case of a fit 37-year-old woman with two previous cesarean deliveries who was diagnosed with a heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy at 8 weeks gestation following symptoms of lower abdominal pain and delayed menstruation. Both pregnancies demonstrated cardiac activity and the portion of the myometrium located between the bladder wall and the gestational sac was noted to exhibit considerable thinness. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy coupled with dilation and curettage and recovered uneventfully. The proper management of a HCSP requires timely diagnosis through ultrasonography. Early diagnosis allows for immediate intervention to prevent complications such as uterine rupture or potentially lethal bleeding.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Karbasi
- Department of Radiology, Medical SchoolTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Reza Aletaha
- Student Research CommitteeTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | | | | | - Esmaeil Gharepapagh
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical SchoolTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
| | - Sahar Rezaei
- Department of Nuclear Medicine, Medical SchoolTabriz University of Medical SciencesTabrizIran
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Aldrich ZF, Ow R, Modii K, O'Leary T. Spontaneous Heterotopic Cesarean Scar Triplet Gestation Following Uterine Ablation. AJP Rep 2024; 14:e91-e95. [PMID: 38370332 PMCID: PMC10874689 DOI: 10.1055/s-0044-1779654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/18/2023] [Indexed: 02/20/2024] Open
Abstract
Heterotopic triplet pregnancy, cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy, and pregnancy following uterine ablation are all rare events that confer significant morbidity including spontaneous abortion, intrauterine fetal demise, preterm labor, abnormal placentation, and uterine rupture. A woman in her 30s, G6P4014, with a history of uterine ablation presented with delayed menses and vaginal spotting with imaging showing two intrauterine pregnancies (one with cardiac activity) and one live pregnancy at the cesarean scar. The patient was extensively counseled on risk to her and to the pregnancies; treatment options were discussed including expectant management and termination of pregnancy. The patient underwent an uncomplicated dilation and curettage with bilateral salpingectomy and was discharged home the day of the procedure in stable condition. This case highlights the potential compound effect of comorbid conditions that can pose difficulty in counseling and management. Key Points Patients undergoing endometrial ablation should be carefully selected and counseled extensively on highly effective contraception.Suspected cesarean scar pregnancies should be carefully evaluated early in gestation. Management should include thorough counseling and may be indivisualized.Many conditions pose a significant threat to maternal health and warrant a discussion of termination, which should be widely availaible and safe for all who need and/or desire it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zane Frazer Aldrich
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, FL
| | - Rena Ow
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, FL
| | - Khyaati Modii
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, FL
| | - Timothy O'Leary
- Obstetrics and Gynecology and Maternal Fetal Medicine, Winnie Palmer Hospital for Women and Babies, Orlando, FL
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Wang F, Vaught A, Rosner M, Baschat A, Darwin K, Halscott T, Kush M, Miller J, Gomez E. Dichorionic diamniotic heterotopic twin gestation with cesarean section scar implantation and placenta increta. Radiol Case Rep 2023; 18:4006-4011. [PMID: 37691758 PMCID: PMC10491656 DOI: 10.1016/j.radcr.2023.08.075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy is an extremely rare form of pregnancy and is defined as an intrauterine pregnancy coexisting with an ectopic pregnancy implanted in the cesarean scar. Cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy can also be a precursor for placenta accreta spectrum, a potentially life-threatening condition in which the placenta is abnormally adherent to the uterine myometrium and possibly adjacent organs. Although cesarean scar ectopic pregnancies are rare, there has been an increase in their incidence due to the rise in cesarean deliveries. We present the case of a 35-year-old patient with a heterotopic pregnancy with ectopic implantation in a cesarean scar and associated placenta increta, as well as the radiologic evaluation of placenta accreta spectrum and subsequent management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felicia Wang
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, 733 North Brdwy, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Arthur Vaught
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Mara Rosner
- Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Ahmet Baschat
- Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Kristin Darwin
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Torre Halscott
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Michelle Kush
- Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Jena Miller
- Center for Fetal Therapy, Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
| | - Erin Gomez
- The Russell H. Morgan Department of Radiology and Radiological Science, Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD 21205, USA
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Silva B, Viana Pinto P, Costa MA. Cesarean Scar Pregnancy: A systematic review on expectant management. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2023; 288:36-43. [PMID: 37421745 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2023.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/26/2023] [Revised: 06/26/2023] [Accepted: 06/28/2023] [Indexed: 07/10/2023]
Abstract
A Cesarean Scar Pregnancy (CSP) is a variant of uterine ectopic pregnancy defined by full or partial implantation of the gestational sac in the scar of a previous cesarean section. The continuous increase of Cesarean Deliveries is causing a parallel increase in CSP and its complications. Considering its high morbidity, the most usual recommendation has been termination of pregnancy in the first trimester; however, several cases progress to viable births. The aim of this systematic review is to evaluate the outcome of CSP managed expectantly and understand whether sonographic signs could correlate to the outcomes. An online-based search of PubMed and Cochrane Library Databases was used to gather studies including women diagnosed with a CSP who were managed expectantly. The description of all cases was analysed by the authors in order to obtain information for each outcome. 47 studies of different types were retrieved, and the gestational outcome was available in 194 patients. Out of these, 39 patients (20,1%) had a miscarriage and 16 (8,3%) suffered foetal death. 50 patients (25,8%) had a term delivery and 81 (41,8%) patients had a preterm birth, out of which 27 (13,9%) delivered before 34 weeks of gestation. In 102 (52,6%) patients, a hysterectomy was performed. Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) was a common disorder among CSP and was linked to a higher rate of complications such as foetal death, preterm birth, hysterectomy, haemorrhagic morbidity and surgical complications. Some of the analysed articles showed that sonographic signs with specific characteristics, such as type II and III CSP classification, Crossover Sign - 1, "In the niche" implantation and lower myometrial thickness could be related to worse outcomes of CSP. This article provides a good understanding of CSP as an entity that, although rare, presents with a high rate of relevant morbidity. It is also understood that pregnancies with confirmed PAS had an even higher rate of morbidity. Some sonographic signs were shown to predict the prognosis of these pregnancies and further investigation is necessary to validate one or more signs so they can be used for a more reliable counselling of women with CSP.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Silva
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
| | - Pedro Viana Pinto
- Department of Biomedicine, Service of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal; Gynecology and Obstetrics Service, University Hospital Center São João, Porto, Portugal.
| | - Maria Antónia Costa
- Gynecology and Obstetrics Service, University Hospital Center São João, Porto, Portugal; Department of Gynecology-Obstetrics and Paediatrics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Porto, Porto, Portugal
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Kim H, Koh JH, Lee J, Sim Y, Lee SH, Lee SJ, Ahn JW, Roh HJ, Kim JS. Successful Full-Term Delivery via Selective Ectopic Embryo Reduction Accompanied by Uterine Cerclage in a Heterotopic Cesarean Scar Pregnancy: A Case Report and Literature Review. Diagnostics (Basel) 2022; 12:diagnostics12030762. [PMID: 35328315 PMCID: PMC8947258 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics12030762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 03/18/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023] Open
Abstract
Heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy (HCSP) is a combination of cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) and intrauterine pregnancy (IUP). Cesarean scar pregnancy is accompanied by life-threatening complications, such as uterine rupture and massive bleeding. Herein, we present a case of HCSP treated with selective potassium chloride injection into the CSP under ultrasonography in association with uterine cerclage to control vaginal bleeding; this led to a successful IUP preservation and full-term delivery. Additionally, we will review several previous reports on HCSP management, including our case.
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Chen ZY, Zhou Y, Qian Y, Luo JM, Huang XF, Zhang XM. Management of heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy with preservation of intrauterine pregnancy: A case report. World J Clin Cases 2021; 9:6428-6434. [PMID: 34435008 PMCID: PMC8362565 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v9.i22.6428] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 06/01/2021] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Heterotopic cesarean scar pregnancy (HCSP) is very rare and has a high risk of massive uterine bleeding. Preservation of concurrent intrauterine pregnancy (IUP) is one of the great challenges in the management of HCSP. No universal treatment protocol has been established when IUP is desired to be preserved.
CASE SUMMARY We report a case of HCSP at 8+ wk gestation in a 34-year-old woman with stable hemodynamics. A two-step intervention was applied. Selective embryo aspiration was performed first, and surgical removal of ectopic gestational tissue by suction and curettage was performed 2 d later. Both steps were performed under ultrasound guidance. The patient had an uneventful course, and a healthy baby was delivered at 34+6 wk gestation.
CONCLUSION Selective embryo aspiration followed by suction and curettage was successful in the preservation of IUP in the management of HCSP. This approach is an alternative option for HCSP in the first trimester when the IUP is desired to be preserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zheng-Yun Chen
- Department of Gynecology, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yong Zhou
- Department of Gynecology, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Yue Qian
- Department of Sonography, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Jia-Min Luo
- Department of Sonography, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xiu-Feng Huang
- Department of Gynecology, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Xin-Mei Zhang
- Department of Gynecology, Women’s Hospital School of Medicine, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310006, Zhejiang Province, China
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