Morbidly Adherent Placenta: Ultrasound Assessment and Supplemental Role of Mri

Publication date: Available online 15 May 2015 Source:Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI Author(s): Mahesh K. Shetty , Damla K. Dryden Morbidly adherent placenta or placenta accreta is being increasingly encountered in obstetrical practice mainly due to the rising rates of cesarean section. This condition is associated with increased maternal morbidity and mortality resulting from post partum hemorrhage. When unsuspected, outcomes can be catastrophic to the pregnant woman. Timely diagnosis during the antenatal period on the other hand allows for optimal planning of a multidisciplinary management approach and delivery at a tertiary care institution. A higher index of suspicion in those at greatest risk such as in women with placenta previa and with history of one or more prior cesarean sections should lead to diligent antenatal evaluation for possible placenta accreta. Management of invasive placenta implantation often involves cesarean section hysterectomies, uterus sparing alternatives to manage this condition can be an option in selected cases. Ultrasound remains the modality of choice for the diagnosis. This review article discusses the ultrasound findings in placenta accreta, its limitations and pitfalls and the supplemental role of MRI in the imaging evaluation placenta accreta.

Source: Seminars in Ultrasound, CT and MRI - May 15, 2015 Category: Radiology Source Type: research