Conservative management of placenta increta with selective arterial embolization preserves future fertility and results in a favorable outcome in subsequent pregnancies

Management and Outcome of Women with Placenta Accreta Spectrum and Treatment with Uterine Artery Embolization

BACKGROUND

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders are a continuum of placental pathologies with increased risk for hemorrhage, blood transfusion and maternal morbidity. Uterine artery embolization (UAE) is a safe approach to the standardization of complex PAS cases. The aim of this study is to analyze anemia and transfusion rate, outcome and anesthesiological management of women who underwent caesarean delivery with subsequent UAE for the management of PAS.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This retrospective observational study included all pregnant women admitted to the University Hospital Frankfurt between January 2012 and September 2023, with a diagnosis of PAS who underwent a two-step surgical approach for delivery and placenta removal. Primary procedure included cesarean delivery with subsequent UAE, secondary procedure included placenta removal after a minim of five weeks via curettage or HE. Maternal characteristics, anesthesiological management, complications, anemia rate, blood loss and administration of blood products were analyzed.

RESULTS

In total, 17 women with PAS were included in this study. Of these, 5.9% had placenta increta and 94.1% had placenta percreta. Median blood loss was 300 (200-600) mL during primary procedure and 3600 (450-5500) mL during secondary procedure. In total, 11.8% and 62.5% of women received red blood cell transfusion during the primary and secondary procedures, respectively. After primary procedure, postpartum anemia rate was 76.5%. The HE rate was 64.7%. Regional anesthesia was used in 88.2% during primary procedure.

CONCLUSION

The embolization of the uterine artery for women diagnosed with PAS is safe. Anemia management and the implementation of blood conservation strategies are crucial in women undergoing UAE for the management of PAS.

Transfusion Requirements with Hybrid Management of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Incorporating Targeted Embolization and a Selective Use of Delayed Hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

This study compares the number of units of red blood cells (RBCs) transfused in patients with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) treated with or without a multidisciplinary algorithm that includes placental uterine arterial embolization (P-UAE) and selective use of either immediate or delayed hysterectomy.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective study of deliveries conducted at a tertiary care hospital from 2001 to 2018 with pathology-confirmed PAS. Those with previable pregnancies or microinvasive histology were excluded. To improve the equity of comparison, analyses were made separately among scheduled and unscheduled cases, therefore patients were assigned to one of four cohorts as follows: (1) scheduled/per-algorithm, (2) scheduled/off-algorithm, (3) unscheduled/per-algorithm, or (4) unscheduled/off-algorithm. Primary outcomes included RBCs transfused and estimated blood loss (EBL). Secondary outcomes included perioperative complications and disposition.

RESULTS

Overall, 95 patients were identified, with 87 patients meeting inclusion criteria: 36 treated per-algorithm (30 scheduled and 6 unscheduled) and 51 off-algorithm patients (24 scheduled and 27 unscheduled). Among scheduled deliveries, 9 (30.0%) patients treated per-algorithm received RBCs compared with 20 (83.3%) patients treated off-algorithm (p < 0.01), with a median (interquartile range [IQR]) of 3.0 (2.0, 4.0) and 6.0 (2.5, 7.5) units transfused (p = 0.13), respectively. Among unscheduled deliveries, 5 (83.3%) per-algorithm patients were transfused RBCs compared with 25 (92.6%) off-algorithm patients (p = 0.47) with a median (IQR) of 4.0 (2.0, 6.0) and 8.0 (3.0, 10.0) units transfused (p = 0.47), respectively. Perioperative complications were similar between cohorts.

CONCLUSION

A multidisciplinary algorithm including P-UAE and selective use of delayed hysterectomy is associated with a lower rate of blood transfusion in scheduled but not unscheduled cases.

KEY POINTS

· An algorithm with delayed hysterectomy had less transfusion in scheduled, but not unscheduled, cases.. · Over time, more cases were managed per algorithm; among scheduled cases, the transfusion rate and volume transfused decreased.. · There were similar transfusion outcomes among off-algorithm cases, regardless if delivery was scheduled..

Placenta accreta spectrum disorder in a primigravida with angular pregnancy: a case report

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is characterized by abnormal invasion of placental tissue into the underlying uterine muscles and has an incidence of 1/533–1/251. The incidence of complications includes uterine rupture (14–29%), PAS (6–10%), and retained placenta or incomplete placenta removal (4%). Here, we described a rare case of PAS and angular pregnancy, including how to diagnose and manage it preoperatively. A 32-year-old primigravida diagnosed at 24 weeks of gestation with a right angular pregnancy was admitted due to preterm premature rupture of membrane (PPROM) with a singleton fetus. We decided to perform hysterotomy because of the PPROM and intrauterine infection. Intraoperatively, we found PAS in the right angular pregnancy; therefore, we performed uterine conservative management with wedge resection on the right uterine fundus. Intraoperative bleeding was 1,600 cc. Histopathological examination revealed placenta increta. The maternal prognosis was good, while the fetus was poor, with an APGAR score of 1/1/0.

Open versus endovascular REBOA control of blood loss during cesarean delivery in the placenta accreta spectrum: A single-center retrospective case control study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to compare two vascular control options for blood loss prevention and hysterectomy during cesarean delivery (CD2): endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA3) and open bilateral common iliac artery occlusion (CIAO4) in women with extensive placenta accreta spectrum (PAS5).

STUDY DESIGN

This was retrospective comparison of cases of PAS using either CIAO (October 2017 through October 2018) or REBOA (November 2018 through November 2019) to prevent pathologic hemorrhage during scheduled CD. Women with confirmed placenta increta/percreta underwent either CD then intraoperative post-delivery, pre-hysterectomy open vascular control of both CIA6 (CIAO group) or pre-operative, ultrasound-guided, fluoroscopy-free REBOA followed by standard CD and balloon inflation after fetal delivery (REBOA group). Intraoperative blood loss, transfusion volumes, surgical time, blood pressure, maternal and neonatal outcomes, hospitalization length and postoperative complications were compared.

RESULTS

The REBOA and CIAO groups included 12 and 16 women, respectively, with similar median age of 35 years and gestational age of 34-35 weeks. All REBOA catheters were successfully placed into aortic zone three under ultrasound guidance. The quantitated median intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower for the REBOA group, (541 [IQR 300-750] mL) compared to the CIAO group (3331 [IQR 1150-4750] mL (P = 0.001). As a result, the total volume of fluid and blood replacement therapy was significantly lower in the REBOA group (P < 0.05). Median surgical time in the REBOA group was less than half as long: 76 [IQR 64-89] minutes compared to 168 [IQR 90-222] minutes in the CIAO group (P = 0.001). None of the women with REBOA required hysterectomy, while 8/16 women in the CIAO group did (P = 0.008). Furthermore, the post-anesthesia recovery and hospital discharge times in the REBOA-group were shorter (P < 0.05). One thromboembolic complication occurred in each group. The only REBOA-associated complication was non-occlusive femoral artery thrombosis, with no surgical management required. No maternal or neonatal deaths occurred in either group.

CONCLUSION

Fluoroscopy-free REBOA for women with PAS is associated with improved vascular control, perioperative blood loss, the need for transfusion and hysterectomy and reduces surgical time when compared to bilateral CIAO.

Placenta percreta - a management dilemma: an institutional experience and review of the literature

Objective

Placenta percreta is an extremely high-risk obstetric condition often associated with significant maternal morbidity and mortality. To date, there is no consensus on its management. This article aimed to identify an optimum management option to improve maternal outcomes in patients with placenta percreta.

Material and Methods

This was an observational study conducted at a tertiary care institute from October 2019 to June 2020. A well-defined plan of preoperative, bilateral, uterine artery catheter placement, cesarean delivery (CD) of the baby followed by uterine artery embolization (UAE), and elective delayed hysterectomy after 2-4 weeks, was made by a multidisciplinary team. Demographic variables such as age, parity, period of gestation, presenting complaints, imaging findings, mode of management, intraoperative findings, blood loss, the requirement for blood and blood products, and complications were noted.

Results

We encountered seven cases of placenta percreta over a period of nine months. UAE was performed in 6/7 patients. UAE was not performed in one patient as she presented to the emergency department in shock. Elective delayed hysterectomy was performed after 2-4 weeks in three patients, three patients required emergency hysterectomy (two during CD and one on the seventh postoperative day) and one patient was managed conservatively by leaving the placenta in situ after CD and UAE. Patients who underwent UAE had notably less intraoperative blood loss and requirement of blood and blood products than the patient who could not receive UAE. During cesarean hysterectomy, blood loss was 1,700 mL in embolized (case 4) vs 3,000 mL in unembolized patient (case 7). In embolized patients, the median blood loss during CD (case 1,2,3,5,6) was 200 mL (interquartile range: 165-200 mL) and during delayed elective hysterectomy (case 1,3,5) was 150 mL (range: 125-225 mL). Blood loss in case 2 was 1,000 mL during emergency hysterectomy on the 7^th day of CD and UAE. The blood loss was appreciably higher in patients who underwent immediate cesarean hysterectomy rather than elective delayed hysterectomy.

Conclusion

Placenta percreta, if not managed in a preplanned manner, may lead to disastrous maternal outcomes. Prophylactic devascularization during CD and leaving the placenta in situ followed by elective delayed hysterectomy, might be a reasonable management option in most severe cases of placenta percreta.

Comparison of emergency cesarean hysterectomy with and without prophylactic placement of intravascular balloon catheters in patients with placenta accreta spectrum

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to compare outcomes of women with placenta accreta spectrum(PAS) who underwent emergency cesarean hysterectomy with and without prophylactic intravascular balloon catheters.

Methods Sixty-three cases who had emergency hysterectomy related to PAS disorders were retrospectively analyzed. Subjects with prophylactic intravascular balloon catheter placement plus hysterectomy were compared with those who had hysterectomy alone. The cases were divided into three groups: infrarenal aortic artery balloon occlusion (IAABC) group (who had IAABC plus hysterectomy, n = 31), internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (IIABOC) group (who had IIABOC plus hysterectomy, n = 17), and hysterectomy alone group (control group n = 15).

RESULTS

Outcome measures were not significantly different between the IIABOC group and the control group. IAABC plus hysterectomy resulted in a better outcome than hysterectomy alone, with less amount of estimated blood loss (EBL) during cesarean section (2000 vs 3000 ml, p = .011) and 24 h after cesarean section (2010 vs 4520 ml, p = .004), less operation time(90 vs 106 min, p = .01), and a lower rate of major blood loss(42 vs 93%, p = .029). IAABC plus hysterectomy resulted in better outcomes than IIABOC plus hysterectomy, with less amount of EBL during cesarean section (2000 vs 3000 ml, p = .005) and 24 h after cesarean section (2010 vs 3000 ml, p = .035), a lower rate of major blood loss(42 vs 100%, p < .001), less operation time (90 vs 100 min, p = .038), and less fetus radiation dose（1.9 mGy vs 22.4 mGy, p < .001).

CONCLUSIONS

IAABC was more effective in emergency cesarean hysterectomy related to PAS disorders.

Management of abnormal invasive placenta in a low- and medium-resource setting

The purpose of this review is to describe the panorama of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorder management in low- and middle-income countries, providing information that allows for the improvement of maternal and perinatal outcomes in the management of this pathology. This spectrum of disorders is associated with implications of high morbidity and mortality, both maternal and perinatal, which is why clinical practice guidelines based on management are produced in settings where there is a wide range of available resources. This situation often contrasts with what the reality is in low-resource countries. Prenatal diagnosis of placental accreta is essential to carry out adequate surgical planning in centres where multidisciplinary teams are in place, which improve results and reduce complications. These ideal scenarios should be developed in countries with more significant difficulties in the availability of human and technological resources, through teamwork in the different hospital centres and the adequate transfer of patients at higher risk to centres with the best interdisciplinary management skills.

The role of interventional radiology in the management of abnormally invasive placenta: a systematic review of current evidences

Abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) is a potentially severe condition. To date, arterial embolization in women with postpartum hemorrhage due to AIP is the treatment option for which highest degrees of evidence are available. However, other techniques have been tested, including prophylactic catheter placement, balloon occlusion of the iliac arteries and abdominal aorta balloon occlusion. In this systematic review, we provide an overview of the currently reported interventional radiology procedures that are used for the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage due to AIP and suggest recommendations based on current evidences. Owing to a high rate of adverse events, prophylactic occlusion of internal iliac arteries should be used with caution and applied when the endpoint is hysterectomy. On the opposite, when a conservative management is considered to preserve future fertility, uterine artery embolization should be the preferred option as it is associated with a hysterectomy rate of 15.5% compared to 76.5% with prophylactic balloon occlusion of the internal iliac arteries and does not result in fetal irradiation. Limited data are available regarding the application of systematic prophylactic embolization and no comparative studies with arterial embolization are available.

Conservative Management of Placenta Percreta: Three Cases and a Review of the Literature regarding Conservative Management of Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) Disorders

Background

The incidence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders has risen over the last decades, and there has been a gradual shift towards expectant management. Conservative management of PAS is known to reduce major obstetric haemorrhage and salvage hysterectomy. There is a lack of consensus on the follow-up of patients undergoing conservative approaches. Here, we describe the follow-up of three patients with placenta percreta who were conservatively managed and review the literature for the conservative management of PAS. Case Presentation. We have successfully managed three cases of placenta percreta expectantly using combined methods involving symphysial-fundal height, serum beta-HCG, and ultrasonographic volume of placental mass.

Conclusions

Use of a combined approach with symphysial-fundal height, serum beta-HCG, and ultrasonographic volume of placental mass with colour Doppler may guide the surveillance of these conservatively managed cases. However, at least one magnetic resonance imaging three months postoperatively may predict a further risk of delayed haemorrhage.

A Literature Review of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder: The Place of Expectant Management in Ethiopian Setup

In the last three to four decades, the increasing caesarean delivery rate has contributed to several fold increment in the incidence of placenta accreta spectrum disorders globally. Placenta accreta spectrum with its subtypes (accreta, increta and percreta) is one of the devastating obstetric complications. As a result, it is the commonest indication for peripartum hysterectomy and common cause of severe maternal morbidity. However, in recent years, there is a growing interest in and practice of expectant management either to minimize emergency hysterectomy related maternal complications or to preserve the fertility potential of a woman with an intact uterus. A large body of observational research findings has demonstrated the success rate of expectant management in many of well selected cases. Similarly, the experience on delayed hysterectomy was encouraging in order to have less hemorrhage. For the best success of placenta accreta spectrum management, multidisciplinary team approach, antenatal diagnosis and managing such cases in a hospital with center of excellence has been strongly recommended. This literature review provides a robust synthesis of up-to-date knowledge and practice on the challenges and successes of placenta accreta spectrum disorders management. The currently practiced management options in the high and middle income countries are also summarized under seven categories. Therefore, the purpose of this review was to shed light on the applicability of the PAS disorder management modalities in our setup.

Prophylactic uterine artery embolization during cesarean delivery for placenta previa complicated by placenta accreta

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic uterine artery embolization (UAE) during cesarean delivery for women with placenta previa complicated by placenta accreta.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of women with placenta previa admitted to The Second Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University, Suzhou, China, for elective cesarean between February 2003 and July 2016. Postpartum estimated blood loss, blood transfusion, hysterectomy, disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) incidence, intensive care unit (ICU) duration, and postoperative stay were compared between control women who underwent cesarean delivery only and women who underwent prophylactic intraoperative UAE during cesarean.

RESULTS

There were 28 and 26 women in the UAE and control group, respectively. There were no differences in hysterectomy incidence (P=0.291), or duration of ICU stay (P=0.085), or postoperative hospitalization (P=0.668) between the groups; however, the incidence of DIC was lower in the UAE group (P=0.035). Mean estimated blood loss (P=0.018) and blood transfusion (P=0.011) were also lower in the UAE group. No serious complications were associated with the endovascular procedures.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic intraoperative UAE seemed to effectively reduce blood loss, need for blood transfusion, and incidence of DIC among women with placenta previa complicated by placenta accreta.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) disorders: incidence, risk factors and outcomes of different management strategies in a tertiary referral hospital in Minia, Egypt: a prospective study

Background

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders have become a significant life-threatening issue due to its increased incidence, morbidity and mortality. Several studies have tried to identify the risk factors for PAS disorders. The ideal management for PAS disorders is a matter of debate. The study objectives were to evaluate the incidence and risk factors of PAS disorders and to compare different management strategies at a tertiary referral hospital, Minia, Egypt.

Methods

This prospective study included 102 women diagnosed with PAS disorders admitted to Minia Maternity university hospital, Egypt between January 2017 to August 2018. These cases were categorized into three groups according to the used approach for management: Group (A), (n = 38) underwent cesarean hysterectomy, group (B), (n = 48) underwent cesarean section (CS) with cervical inversion and ligation of both uterine arteries and group (C), (n = 16): the placenta was left in place.

Results

The incidence of PAS disorders during the study period was 9 / 1000 maternities (0.91%). The mean age of cases was 32.4 ± 4.2 years, 60% of them had a parity ≥3 and 82% of them had ≥2 previous CSs. Also, 1/3 of them had previous history of placenta previa. Estimated blood loss (EBL) and blood transfusion in group A were significantly higher than other groups. Group (C) had higher mean hospital stay duration. Group A was associated with significantly higher complication rate.

Conclusions

The incidence of PAS disorders was 0.91%. Maternal age > 32 years, previous C.S. (≥ 2), multiparity (≥ 3) and previous history of placenta previa were risk factors. The management of PAS disorders should be individualized. Women with PAS disorders who completed their family should be offered cesarean hysterectomy. Using the cervix as a tamponade combined with bilateral uterine artery ligation appears to be a safe alternative to hysterectomy in patients with focal placenta accreta and low parity desiring future fertility. Patients with diffuse placenta accreta keen to preserve the uterus could be offered the option of leaving the placenta aiming at conservative management after proper counseling.

Trial registration

Registered 28th October 2015, ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02590484.

The parameters affecting the success of uterus-sparing surgery in cases of placenta adhesion spectrum disorder

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate the parameters affecting the treatment success of conservative surgery in cases with placental invasion anomaly.

METHODS

Archive files and digital image records of 67 patients with placental invasion anomaly were studied. The patients were divided into two groups, a conservative surgery group and a cesarean hysterectomy group. Demographic data, cervical length, placental localization, placental surface area adhering to previous cesarean section line, preoperative and postoperative hematocrit values, transfused blood products, and surgical complications were compared between the two groups.

RESULTS

In the conservative surgery group, the cervical length was longer (p < .001) and the surface area of the placenta in the previous cesarean scar line was smaller (p < .001). For cervical length, the sensitivity and specificity values were 97 and 81%, respectively, when the cut-off value was 35.5 mm. When the cut-off value for the placental surface area in the previous cesarean scar line was 85.5 cm², the sensitivity and specificity values were 68 and 72%, respectively. In the caesarean hysterectomy group, the preoperative and postoperative hematocrit values were lower (p < .001, p = .003, respectively), and the amount of transfused erythrocyte suspension and fresh frozen plasma were higher (p < .001, p = .001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

In this study, it was concluded that the presence of the nondestructive intact cervical tissue, in the cases with placental invasion anomaly and/or the small size of the placental surface area adhering to the previous cesarean scar line, increase the feasibility of conservative surgery.

Placenta accreta in the department of gynaecology and obstetrics in Rabat, Morocco: case series and review of the literature

Placenta accreta spectrum disorders is a rare pathology but the incidence has not stopped to increase in recent years. The purpose of our work was the analysis of the epidemiological profile of our patients, the circumstances of diagnosis, the interest of paraclinical explorations in antenatal diagnosis and the evaluation of the evolutionary profile. We hereby report a case series spread over a period of one year from 01/01/2015 to 01/01/2016 at the Gynaecology-Obstetrics department of the University Hospital Center IBN SINA of Rabat where we identified six cases of placenta accreta. We selected patients whose diagnosis was confirmed clinically and histologically. The major risk factors identified were a history of placenta previa, previous caesarean section, advanced maternal age, multiparity. 2D ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allowed us to strongly suspect the presence of a placenta accreta in a pregnant woman with risk factor(s) but the diagnosis of certainty was always histological. Placenta accreta spectrum disorders were associated with a high risk of severe postpartum hemorrhage, serious comorbidities, and maternal death. Leaving the placenta in situ was an option for women who desire to preserve their fertility and agree to continuous long-term monitoring in centers with adequate expertise but a primary elective caesarean hysterectomy was the safest and most practical option. Placenta accreta spectrum disorders is an uncommon pathology that must be systematically sought in a parturient with risk factors, to avoid serious complications. In light of the latest International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) recommendations of 2018, a review of the literature and finally the experience of our center, we propose a course of action according to whether the diagnosis of the placenta is antenatal or perpartum.

Evidence-based guidelines for the management of abnormally invasive placenta: recommendations from the International Society for Abnormally Invasive Placenta

The worldwide incidence of abnormally invasive placenta is rapidly rising, following the trend of increasing cesarean delivery. It is a heterogeneous condition and has a high maternal morbidity and mortality rate, presenting specific intrapartum challenges. Its rarity makes developing individual expertise difficult for the majority of clinicians. The International Society for Abnormally Invasive Placenta aims to improve clinicians' understanding and skills in managing this difficult condition. By pooling knowledge, experience, and expertise gained within a variety of different healthcare systems, the Society seeks to improve the outcomes for women with abnormally invasive placenta globally. The recommendations presented herewith were reached using a modified Delphi technique and are based on the best available evidence. The evidence base for each is presented using a formal grading system. The topics chosen address the most pertinent questions regarding intrapartum management of abnormally invasive placenta with respect to clinically relevant outcomes, including the following: definition of a center of excellence; requirement for antenatal hospitalization; antenatal optimization of hemoglobin; gestational age for delivery; antenatal corticosteroid administration; use of preoperative cystoscopy, ureteric stents, and prophylactic pelvic arterial balloon catheters; maternal position for surgery; type of skin incision; position of the uterine incision; use of interoperative ultrasound; prophylactic administration of oxytocin; optimal method for intraoperative diagnosis; use of expectant management; adjuvant therapies for expectant management; use of local surgical resection; type of hysterectomy; use of delayed hysterectomy; intraoperative measures to treat life-threatening hemorrhage; and fertility after conservative management.

Comparison of infrarenal aortic balloon occlusion with internal iliac artery balloon occlusion for patients with placenta accreta

BACKGROUND

The study was designed to compare the role of infrarenal aortic artery balloon occlusion (IAABC) with internal iliac artery balloon occlusion (IIABOC).

METHODS

One hundred seventy-four cases with placenta accreta were retrospectively analyzed.74 cases who had IAABC were in group A, while the others who had IIABOC were in group B.

RESULTS

Amount of estimated blood loss (EBL), the rate of major blood loss, the rate of blood transfusion and uterine packing, length of hospitalization were not different in both groups. The rate of uterine artery embolization (UAE), balloon occlusion time, operation time and fetus radiation dose in group A were less than those in group B.

CONCLUSIONS

IAABC resulted in better clinical outcomes than IIABOC.

Conservative Management of Abnormally Invasive Placenta Previa after Midtrimester Foetal Demise

We present the case of a midtrimester intrauterine foetal demise (IUFD) in the context of abnormally invasive placentation. This was a grade 4 placenta previa with placenta increta in a patient requesting fertility conservation and was managed conservatively without immediate surgical intervention. The patient spontaneously delivered the fetus after 33 days, followed by a large obstetric haemorrhage requiring immediate laparotomy and hysterotomy. Her uterus was preserved and she went on to recover without further significant complication. While conservative management of morbidly adherent placentas has been well documented, there are no published cases of this strategy in the context of IUFD and fertility preservation.

A Case of Placenta Percreta Managed with Sequential Embolisation Procedures

Background

The incidence of morbidly adherent placenta, including placenta percreta, has increased significantly over recent years due to rising caesarean section rates. Historically, abnormally invasive placenta has been managed with caesarean hysterectomy; however nonsurgical interventions such as uterine artery embolisation (UAE) are emerging as safe alternative management techniques. UAE can be utilised to decrease placental perfusion and encourage placental resorption, thereby reducing the risk of haemorrhage and other morbidities.

Case

We describe one of the very few reported cases of placenta percreta which was successfully treated primarily with sequential artery embolisation. Our patient underwent four embolisation procedures over a period of 248 days, with no major morbidity or complications.

Conclusion

Repeat UAE may be a beneficial primary management modality in cases of placenta percreta with bladder involvement.

Clinical application of prophylactic internal iliac artery balloon occlusion combined with uterine artery embolization in patients with abnormally invasive placenta

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study is to investigate the role of prophylactic internal iliac artery balloon occlusion combined with uterine artery embolization (UAE) in patients with abnormally invasive placenta.

METHODS

Forty cases with abnormally invasive placenta who visited our hospital were analyzed retrospectively from May 2014 to September 2015. Twenty cases who had prophylactic balloon occlusion of internal iliac artery with/without UAE were in the study group, while the other 20 cases in the control group. Volume of estimated blood loss and blood transfusion, rate of hysterectomy, surgery duration, postoperative complication and length of hospitalization were compared between two groups.

RESULTS

The mean estimated blood loss in the study group (800 ml,500-1800 ml) was less than that in the control group (1875 ml, 500-7600 ml) (p = .01). Only two cases had blood transfusion in the study group, while 12 cases in the control group. No case was performed hysterectomy in the study group, while one case had the operation in the control group. There was no significant difference in surgery duration, postoperative complications and length of hospitalization between two groups.

CONCLUSION

Prophylactic balloon occlusion of internal iliac artery combined with UAE is effective and safe for patients with abnormally invasive placenta.

Outcome of Pregnancies After Balloon Occlusion of the Infrarenal Abdominal Aorta During Caesarean in 230 Patients With Placenta Praevia Accreta

Purpose

To explore the efficacy and safety of prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of the infrarenal abdominal aorta during caesarean for the management of patients with placenta praevia accreta.

Methods

Two hundred and sixty-eight cases of placenta praevia accreta from January 2012 to June 2015 were retrospectively reviewed. Group A included two hundred and thirty patients who underwent prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of infrarenal abdominal aorta followed by caesarean section. Group B included thirty-eight patients who underwent caesarean without endovascular intervention. The parameters including operating room time, estimated blood loss, blood transfusion volume, PT (prothrombin time) during operation, days in the intensive care unit, and total hospital days were compared between the two groups.

Results

The operating room time, estimated blood loss, PT, the incidence of hysterectomy, blood transfusion volume, postpartum haemorrhage, and days in intensive care unit were lower in group A than in group B, with statistical significance (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in the Apgar scores of the neonates and the incidences of thrombosis in lower limbs between the two groups (P > 0.05). No patient in the group with prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of the infrarenal abdominal aorta was performed hysterectomy, while three patients in group B were performed hysterectomy because of uncontrollable haemorrhage.

Conclusions

The results indicate that prophylactic temporary balloon occlusion of infrarenal abdominal aorta followed by caesarean section is safe and effective to control intraoperative blood loss and greatly decreases the risk of hysterectomy in patients with placenta praevia accreta.

Short & long term adverse outcomes after arterial embolisation for the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage: a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

Arterial embolisation (AE) plays a major role in current practice in the management of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) that fails to respond to conservative treatment. While its benefit is well known, long-term outcomes of AE have been poorly investigated. The objective of this review is to assess its potential complications and long-term effects on the patients' quality of life.

METHODS

Using the terms "embolisation" and "postpartum haemorrhage", we searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline and PubMed for published studies. We limited the search to articles in English and French reporting "complications", "fertility", "menstruation" or "menstrual cycle" in humans. To ensure completeness, the references of extracted articles and review articles were also searched.

RESULTS

The fertility rate in patients attempting another pregnancy reaches 70-80 %. Pregnancies following AE for PPH are not associated with a higher rate of intrauterine growth restriction. Pathological placentation (placenta accreta/increta/percreta) occurs more frequently after AE than in the general population. Psychological wellbeing, post-traumatic stress and sexual dysfunction after a life-threatening PPH requiring AE will require further investigation.

CONCLUSION

AE does not appear to adversely affect menstrual cycle, fertility and subsequent pregnancies, but may affect placentation. The experience of a life-threatening PPH, however, might prevent couples from pursuing another pregnancy.

KEY POINTS

• Embolisation for PPH does not adversely affect menstrual cycle and fertility • Experience of life-threatening PPH might prevent couples from pursuing another pregnancy • Pathological placentation seems to occur more frequently after embolisation for PPH.

Escalating placenta invasiveness: repeated placenta accreta at the limit of viability

Placenta percreta is an obstetric condition in which the placenta invades through the myometrium. This is the most severe form of placenta accreta and may result in spontaneous uterine rupture, a rare complication that threatens the life of both mother and fetus. In this case report, we describe a 32-year-old woman in her fourth pregnancy, diagnosed with repeated placenta accreta, which was eventually complicated by spontaneous uterine rupture at 24 weeks’ gestation. This patient had a history of abnormal placentation in prior pregnancies and previous uterine injuries. This case demonstrates a pattern of escalating placental invasiveness, and raises questions regarding the process of abnormal placentation and the manifestation of uterine rupture in scarred uteri.

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.

Conservative management of morbidly adherent placenta: expert review

Over the last century, the incidence of placenta accreta, increta, and percreta, collectively referred to as morbidly adherent placenta, has risen dramatically. Planned cesarean hysterectomy at the time of cesarean delivery is the standard recommended treatment in the United States. Recently, interest in conservative management has resurged, especially in Europe. The aims of this review are the following: (1) to provide an overview of methods used for conservative management, (2) to discuss clinical implications for both clinicians and patients, and (3) to identify areas in need of further research.

Conservative Management of Invasive Placenta Using Combined Prophylactic Internal Iliac Artery Balloon Occlusion and Immediate Postoperative Uterine Artery Embolization

Purpose

The objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy and safety of combined prophylactic intraoperative internal iliac artery balloon occlusion and postoperative uterine artery embolization in the conservative management (uterine preservation) of women with invasive placenta undergoing scheduled caesarean delivery.

Methods

Ten women (mean age 35 years) with invasive placenta choosing caesarean delivery without hysterectomy had preoperative insertion of internal iliac artery occlusion balloons, intraoperative inflation of the balloons, and immediate postoperative uterine artery embolization with absorbable gelatin sponge. A retrospective review was performed with institutional review board approval. Outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, transfusion requirement, hysterectomy rate, endovascular complications, surgical complications, and postoperative morbidity.

Results

All women had placenta increta or percreta, and concomitant complete placenta previa. Mean gestational age at delivery was 36 weeks. In 6 women the placenta was left undisturbed in the uterus, 2 had partial removal of the placenta, and 2 had piecemeal removal of the whole placenta. Mean estimated blood loss during caesarean delivery was 1.2 L. Only 2 patients (20%) required blood transfusion. There were no intraoperative surgical complications, endovascular complications, maternal deaths, or perinatal deaths. Three women developed postpartum complications necessitating postpartum hysterectomy; the hysterectomy rate was therefore 30% and uterine preservation was successful in 70%.

Conclusion

Combined bilateral internal iliac artery balloon occlusion and uterine artery embolization may be an effective strategy to control intraoperative blood loss and preserve the uterus in patients with invasive placenta undergoing caesarean delivery.

A comprehensive surgical procedure in conservative management of placenta accreta: a case series

We aimed to present a combined surgical procedure in conservative treatment of placenta accreta based on surgical outcomes in our cohort of patients. The study was designed as a prospective cohort series study. The setting involved two education and research hospitals in Turkey. This study included 12 patients with placenta accreta who were prenatally diagnosed and managed. We offered the patients the choice of conservative or nonconservative treatment. We then offered 2 choices for patients who had preferred conservative treatment, leaving the placenta in situ as is the classical procedure, or our surgical procedure. One patient preferred nonconservative treatment, the others opted for our procedure.We evaluated demographic and obstetric characteristics of patients, sonographic and operative parameters of patients, and surgical outcomes. We operated on 11 patients using this surgical procedure that we have developed for placenta accreta cases. We found that there was no need for hysterectomy in any patient, and we preserved the uterus for all of these patients. No patient presented any septic complication or secondary vaginal bleeding.Our surgical procedure seems to be effective and useful in the conservative treatment of placenta accreta.

Contemporary issues in the management of abnormal placentation during pregnancy in developing nations: An Indian perspective

The gap between the developed and developing nations with regards to maternal mortality and morbidity may have narrowed but still a lot of dedicated work is required to bridge these differences. Obstetrical haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal deaths in these developing nations especially in India. The most common causes of this fatal haemorrhage are the placental abnormalities which rarely get detected before delivery. Numerous factors have been incremental in the causation of this abnormal placental implantation with resultant complications. The present article is an attempt to review possible predictors of abnormal placental implantation. Also, a genuine attempt has been made to enumerate possible measures to identify the predictors of abnormal placentation during early pregnancy and their suitable prevention and management.

Fertility rate and subsequent pregnancy outcomes after conservative surgical techniques in postpartum hemorrhage: 15 years of literature

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the most appropriate surgical technique for optimizing hemostasis and preservation of subsequent fertility after postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

DESIGN

Systematic review of the literature.

SETTING

Not applicable.

PATIENT(S)

None.

INTERVENTION(S)

Review of MEDLINE, EMBASE, ScienceDirect, and the Cochrane Library.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S)

Comparison of the effectiveness of conservative surgical techniques, separately or together, with respect to success rate (ability to stop bleeding and preserve the uterus), fertility rate (subsequent pregnancies or the return of regular menstrual cycles), complication rate of the procedure, and the outcomes of subsequent pregnancies in terms of type of delivery and eventual delivery complications.

RESULT(S)

Compressive sutures and vessel embolization may be considered life-saving procedures by achieving the best hemostatic efficacy. Data on restoration of menses and pregnancy rates after these procedures are limited by short-term follow-up and by the paucity of studies, especially for vascular ligation.

CONCLUSION(S)

Pelvic vessel embolization and compressive sutures are associated with high rates of restoration of regular menses and successive pregnancies, even if the former is burdened by an increased rate of placental disorders and fetal growth restriction and the latter by an increased risk of cesarean deliveries and PPH recurrence. Randomized trials would be desirable to define the best management of PPH.

Placenta accreta: risk factors, perinatal outcomes, and consequences for subsequent births

OBJECTIVE

We sought to evaluate risk factors and perinatal outcomes of pregnancies complicated with placenta accreta and to study perinatal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study comparing all singleton cesarean deliveries (CD) of women with and without placenta accreta was conducted. In addition, a retrospective comparison of all subsequent singleton CD of women with a previous placenta accreta, with CD of women with no such history, was performed during the years 1988 through 2011. Stratified analysis using multiple logistic regression models was performed to control for confounders.

RESULTS

During the study period, there were 34,869 CD, of which 0.4% (n = 139) were complicated with placenta accreta. Using a multivariable analysis with backward elimination, year of birth (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03-1.09; P < .001), previous CD (aOR, 5.11; 95% CI, 3.42-7.65; P < .001), and placenta previa (aOR, 50.75; 95% CI, 35.57-72.45; P < .001) were found to be independently associated with placenta accreta. There were 30 subsequent pregnancies of women with placenta accreta. Recurrent accreta occurred in 4 patients (13.3%). Previous placenta accreta was significantly associated with uterine rupture (3.3% vs 0.3%, P < .01) peripartum hysterectomy (3.3% vs 0.2%, P < .001), and the need for blood transfusions (16.7% vs 4%, P < .001). Nevertheless, increased risk for adverse perinatal outcomes such as low Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes and perinatal mortality was not found in these patients.

CONCLUSION

Prior CD and placenta previa are independent risk factors for placenta accreta. A pregnancy following a previous placenta accreta is at increased risk for adverse maternal outcomes such as recurrent accreta, uterine rupture, and peripartum hysterectomy. However, adverse perinatal outcomes were not demonstrated.

[Placenta accreta: screening, management and complications]

Abnormal placental invasion can result in major obstetric haemorrhage during delivery. The most important risk factors are the following: previous caesarean delivery, placenta praevia maternal age over 35, smoking, previous myomectomy, dilatation and curettage. When placenta accreta is suspected on ultrasound, an RMI can complete the diagnostic. Therefore, patients must be managed, as far as possible, in a reference centre, by a trained medical team. Birth must be planned in order to decrease complications rate. Treatment can consist in radical management (caesarean-hysterectomy) or conservative management (preservation of both uterus and placenta). Conservative management allows patients to keep fertility but can also decrease blood loss during delivery. Side effects of this therapy are secondary haemorrhage, sepsis, long-term follow-up and vaginal loss. There are few studies describing fertility after conservative management, but it seems to be a secure treatment for future pregnancies. Embolization can be a very useful, already demonstrated, help when massive haemorrhage occurs. Management of placenta accreta is multidisciplinary and patients must be informed of all options. Treatment is decided regarding history of the patients, operative findings and peri-partum blood loss.

Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy in a patient with placenta percreta

Placenta percreta is a problem encountered with increasing frequency due to the rising rate of cesarean delivery. Conservative management of this condition is associated with decreased perioperative morbidity. When hysterectomy is necessary, a laparoscopic approach can provide additional benefits. We present the case of a woman with placenta percreta with bladder invasion who was undergoing conservative management and then required delayed hysterectomy. Laparoscopic-assisted vaginal hysterectomy was successfully performed. We review the techniques used to ensure a good outcome and the advantages of a minimally invasive approach to hysterectomy in this patient with placenta percreta.

Placental vascularity and resorption delay after conservative management of invasive placenta: MR imaging evaluation

OBJECTIVES

To assess the potential of magnetic resonance (MR) imaging in evaluating placental vascularity and predicting placental resorption delay after conservative management of invasive placenta.

METHODS

MR examinations of 23 women with conservative management of invasive placenta were reviewed. Twelve women had pelvic embolisation because of postpartum haemorrhage (Group 1) and 11 had no embolisation (Group 2). Comparisons between the two groups were made with respect to the delay for complete placental resorption at follow-up MR imaging and degree of placental vascularity 24 h after delivery on early (30s) and late (180 s) phase of dynamic gadolinium chelate-enhanced MR imaging.

RESULTS

The median delay for complete placental resorption in the cohort study was 21.1 weeks (range, 1-111 weeks). In Group 1, the median delay for complete placental resorption was shorter than in Group 2 (17 vs 32 weeks) (P = 0.036). Decreased placental vascularity on the early phase was observed in Group 1 by comparison with Group 2 (P = 0.003). Significant correlation was found between the degree of vascularity on early phase of dynamic MR imaging and the delay for complete placental resorption (r = 0.693; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

MR imaging provides useful information after conservative management of invasive placenta and may help predict delay for complete placental resorption.