Conservative management of morbidly adherent placenta: expert review

Pregnancy Outcomes after Uterine Preservation Surgery for Placenta Accreta Spectrum: A Retrospective Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

 This study aimed to investigate maternal and neonatal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies of women with a history of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) compared with women without history of PAS.

STUDY DESIGN

 A retrospective cohort study conducted at a single tertiary center between March 2011 and January 2022. We compared women with a history of PAS who had uterine preservation surgery and a subsequent pregnancy, to a control group matched in a 1:5 ratio. The primary outcome was the occurrence of a composite adverse outcome (CAO) including any of the following: uterine dehiscence, uterine rupture, blood transfusion, hysterectomy, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and neonatal mechanical ventilation. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to evaluate associations with the CAO.

RESULTS

 During the study period, 287 (1.1%) women were diagnosed with PAS and delivered after 25 weeks of gestation. Of these, 32 (11.1%) women had a subsequent pregnancy that reached viability. These 32 women were matched to 139 controls. There were no significant differences in the baseline characteristics between the study and control groups. Compared with controls, the proportion of CAO was significantly higher in women with previous PAS pregnancy (40.6 vs. 19.4%, p = 0.019). In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, previous PAS (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 3.31, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09-10.02, p = 0.034) and earlier gestational age at delivery (aOR = 3.53, 95% CI = 2.27-5.49, p < 0.001) were independently associated with CAOs.

CONCLUSION

 A history of PAS in a previous pregnancy is associated with increased risk of CAOs in subsequent pregnancies.

KEY POINTS

· The uterine-preserving approach for PAS delivery is gaining more attention and popularity in recent years.. · Women with a previous pregnancy with PAS had higher rates of CAOs in subsequent pregnancies.. · Previous PAS pregnancy is an independent factor associated with adverse outcomes..

Placenta accreta spectrum conservative management and coagulopathy: case series and systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Management of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) with the placenta kept in situ aims to preserve fertility and minimize blood loss. However, this method is associated with a risk of coagulopathy and subsequent bleeding. The aim of this study was to evaluate the occurrence and pathophysiology of coagulopathy in cases of PAS managed conservatively.

METHODS

We reviewed our database for cases of PAS in which the placenta was kept in situ. In addition, we performed a systematic review of articles on PAS in which the placenta was left in situ and was complicated by coagulopathy. PubMed was searched for publications between 1980 and 2023. Our eligibility criteria included studies in which no additional interventions were performed other than keeping the placenta entirely in situ, and in which coagulopathy was reported.

RESULTS

After screening and selection of full-text articles, 10 studies were included in the review. A review of our databases yielded a case series of PAS managed conservatively with the placenta kept in situ. When adding our case series to the results of our systematic review, a total of 87 cases were found to have been managed conservatively, with 28 cases of coagulopathy. Of these, the time at which coagulopathy developed was known in 11 cases. The median time at development of coagulopathy was 58 (interquartile range, 50-67) days postpartum.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings highlight that conservative management of PAS with the placenta in situ poses a risk of coagulopathy. Keeping the placenta in situ after delivery prolongs the risk factors that are integral to PAS. The pathophysiology behind coagulopathy is comparable with that of concealed placental abruption, due to the disrupted uteroplacental interface and the collection of blood in the placenta. Therefore, the presence of large placental lakes could be an indicator of developing coagulopathy. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

The Lebanese percreta group: A retrospective cohort study of both radical and conservative management outcomes of abnormally invasive placenta

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the present study was to illustrate the outcomes of abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) cases managed in three leading centers in Lebanon.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective multicenter cohort study. Patients managed conservatively (cesarean delivery with successful placental separation) or radically (cesarean hysterectomy) were included in the study. Data included patient characteristics, surgical outcomes (blood loss, operative time, transfusion, partial bladder resection), maternal outcomes (death, length of stay, ICU admission, postoperative hemoglobin level) and neonatal outcomes (Apgar score, neonatal weight, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, neonatal death).

RESULTS

The study included 189 patients. In the radical treatment subgroup (141/189), patients were para 3 and delivered at 34 4/7 weeks in average, bled 1.5 L and were transfused with three packed red blood cells, with operative time averaging 160 min. A total of 36% were admitted to the ICU and patients stayed on average for 1 week despite partial bladder resection in 19% of cases. Unscheduled radical delivery occurred at a lower gestational age, was associated with more blood loss, higher rate and volume of transfusion, and risk of maternal and neonatal death. In addition, patients delivered in an unscheduled fashion experienced higher rates of partial bladder resection and longer interventions. In the conservative treatment subgroup, on average patients were para 2 and delivered at 36 weeks, bled 800 mL on average with low rates of transfusion (35%) and ICU admission (22.9%). With regard to neonatal outcomes, the average neonatal birth weight was 2.4 kg in the radical subgroup and 2.5 kg in the conservative subgroup. Neonatal death occurred in 5.4% of cases requiring radical management while it occurred in 2% of patients treated conservatively.

CONCLUSION

Through their multidisciplinary approach, the three centers demonstrated that management of AIP in Lebanon has led to excellent outcomes with no maternal mortality occurring in scheduled radical treatment. By comparison of the three leading centers, pitfalls in each center were identified and addressed.

Conservative management or cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum in middle-income countries: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Cesarean hysterectomy is a dominant and effective approach during delivery in patients with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). However, as hysterectomy results in a loss of fertility, conservative management is an alternative approach. However, management selection may be affected by a country's overall economic level. Thus the preferred treatment for PAS generates controversy in middle-income countries.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to compare conservative management and cesarean hysterectomy for managing PAS in middle-income countries.

SEARCH STRATEGY

China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang Med Online Databases, Cochrane Library, Ovid MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, clinicaltrials.gov, and Scopus were searched from inception through to October 1, 2022.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included studies that evaluated at least one complication comparing conservative management and hysterectomy. All cases were diagnosed with PAS prenatally and intraoperatively.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

The primary outcomes were blood loss, adjacent organ damage, and the incidence of hysterectomy. Descriptive analyses were conducted for studies that did not meet the meta-analysis criteria. A fixed-effects model was used for studies without heterogeneity and a random-effects model was used for studies with statistical heterogeneity.

MAIN RESULTS

In all, 11 observational studies were included, with 975 and 625 patients who underwent conservative management and cesarean hysterectomy, respectively. Conservative management was significantly associated with decreased blood loss and lower risks of adjacent organ injury and hysterectomy. Conservative management significantly reduced blood transfusions, hospitalization duration, operative time, intensive care unit admission rates, and infections. There were no significant differences in the risks of coagulopathy, thromboembolism, or reoperation.

CONCLUSION

Given short-term complications and future fertility preferences for patients, conservative management appears to effectively manage PAS in middle-income countries. Owing to low levels of evidence, high heterogeneity and insufficient long-term follow-up data, further detailed studies are warranted.

Cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum: Surgeon specialty-specific assessment

OBJECTIVE

To assess (i) clinical and pregnancy characteristics, (ii) patterns of surgical procedures, and (iii) surgical morbidity associated with cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum based on the specialty of the attending surgeon.

METHODS

The Premier Healthcare Database was queried retrospectively to study patients with placenta accreta spectrum who underwent cesarean delivery and concurrent hysterectomy from 2016 to 2020. Surgical morbidity was assessed with propensity score inverse probability of treatment weighting based on surgeon specialty for hysterectomy: general obstetrician-gynecologists, maternal-fetal medicine specialists, and gynecologic oncologists.

RESULTS

A total of 2240 cesarean hysterectomies were studies. The most common surgeon type was general obstetrician-gynecologist (n = 1534, 68.5%), followed by gynecologic oncologist (n = 532, 23.8%) and maternal-fetal medicine specialist (n = 174, 7.8%). Patients in the gynecologic oncologist group had the highest rate of placenta increta or percreta, followed by the maternal-fetal medicine specialist and general obstetrician-gynecologist groups (43.4%, 39.6%, and 30.6%, P < .001). In a propensity score-weighted model, measured surgical morbidity was similar across the three subspecialty groups, including hemorrhage / blood transfusion (59.4-63.7%), bladder injury (18.3-24.0%), ureteral injury (2.2-4.3%), shock (8.6-10.5%), and coagulopathy (3.3-7.4%) (all, P > .05). Among the cesarean hysterectomy performed by gynecologic oncologist, hemorrhage / transfusion rates remained substantial despite additional surgical procedures: tranexamic acid / ureteral stent (60.4%), tranexamic acid / endo-arterial procedure (76.2%), ureteral stent / endo-arterial procedure (51.6%), and all three procedures (55.4%). Tranexamic acid administration with ureteral stent placement was associated with decreased bladder injury (12.8% vs 23.8-32.2%, P < .001).

CONCLUSION

These data suggest that patient characteristics and surgical procedures related to cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum differ based on surgeon specialty. Gynecologic oncologists appear to manage more severe forms of placenta accreta spectrum. Regardless of surgeon's specialty, surgical morbidity of cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum is significant.

Clinical Prediction of Retained Products of Conception: Combining Obstetric History and Ultrasound for Improved Accuracy in Severe Postpartum Hemorrhage

Background The current challenge is how to improve the management of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) to reduce the maternal mortality rate further. This study aimed to investigate whether a combined specific obstetric history and ultrasonographic findings can improve the predictive accuracy of retained products of conception (RPOC) with severe PPH. Methods This retrospective study included 56 patients who were diagnosed with RPOC. We extracted the following clinical data: obstetric history of second-trimester miscarriage, the time at which there was clinical suspicion of RPOC after the previous pregnancy (TIME), grayscale ultrasonographic finding (RPOC long-axis length [SIZE]), and color Doppler ultrasonographic finding based on the Gutenberg classification (RPOC hypervascularity). In this study, we defined cases requiring blood transfusion therapy or transcatheter arterial embolization as severe PPH. The patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of severe PPH. The predictors of severe PPH were evaluated using logistic regression models. Model A comprised a combination of second-trimester miscarriage and TIME, Model B comprised a combination of Model A and long-axis SIZE, and Model C comprised a combination of Model B and RPOC hypervascularity. Results The multivariable analysis showed that long-axis SIZE was the only significant predictor of severe PPH (odds ratio [OR], 10.38; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.06-63.86) independent of second-trimester miscarriage, TIME, and RPOC hypervascularity. The c-statistic was higher in Model C (OR, 0.863; 95% CI, 0.731-0.936) than in Model A (OR, 0.723; 95% CI, 0.551-0.847) and Model B (OR, 0.834; 95% CI, 0.677-0.923). Conclusion Combining a specific obstetric history (second-trimester miscarriage and TIME) and ultrasonographic findings (long-axis SIZE and RPOC hypervascularity) improves the predictive accuracy of RPOC with severe PPH. This prediction model may be a useful clinical screening tool for RPOC with severe PPH.

Neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by placenta accreta- a matched cohort study

PURPOSE

Pregnancies complicated by placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) are associated with severe maternal morbidities. The aim of this study is to describe the neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated with PAS compared with pregnancies not complicated by PAS.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study conducted at a single tertiary center between 03/2011 and 01/2022, comparing women with PAS who underwent cesarean delivery (CD) to a matched control group of women without PAS who underwent CD. We evaluated the following adverse neonatal outcomes: umbilical artery pH < 7.0, umbilical artery base excess ≤ - 12, APGAR score < 7 at 5 min, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, mechanical ventilation, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, seizures and neonatal death. We also evaluated a composite adverse neonatal outcome, defined as the occurrence of at least one of the adverse neonatal outcomes described above. Multivariable regression analysis was used to determine which adverse neonatal outcome were independently associated with the presence of PAS.

RESULTS

265 women with PAS were included in the study group and were matched to 1382 controls. In the PAS group compared with controls, the rate of composite adverse neonatal outcomes was significantly higher (33.6% vs. 18.7%, respectively, p < 0.001). In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, Apgar score < 7 at 5 min, NICU admission and composite adverse neonatal outcome were independently associated with PAS.

CONCLUSION

Neonates in PAS pregnancies had higher rates of adverse outcomes. Apgar score < 7 at 5 min, NICU admission and composite adverse neonatal outcome were independently associated with PAS.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Prophylactic Therapy for Hyperfibrinolysis with Tranexamic Acid

BACKGROUND

To report on prophylactic therapy for hyperfibrinolysis with tranexamic acid (TXA) during expectant management (EM) in the placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

METHODS

This is a monocentric retrospective study of women with PAS presenting at our hospital between 2005 and 2021. All data were retrospectively collected through the departmental database.

RESULTS

35 patients with PAS were included. EM was planned in 25 patients prior to delivery. Complete absorption of the retained placenta was seen in two patients (8%). Curettage was performed in 14 patients (56%). A hysterectomy (HE) was needed in seven (28%) patients; 18 patients (72%) underwent uterus-preserving treatment without severe complications. The mean duration of EM was 107 days. The mean day of onset of hyperfibrinolysis and beginning of TXA treatment was day 45. The mean nadir of fibrinogen level before TXA was 242.4 mg/dL, with a mean drop of 29.7% in fibrinogen level.

CONCLUSIONS

Our data support EM as a safe treatment option in PAS. Hyperfibrinolysis can be a cause of hemorrhage during EM and can be treated with TXA. To our knowledge, this is the first cohort of patients with EM of PAS in whom coagulation monitoring and use of TXA have been shown to successfully treat hyperfibrinolysis.

Intraoperative Multivessel Embolization Reduces Blood Loss and Transfusion Requirements Compared to Internal Iliac Artery Balloon Placement during Cesarean Hysterectomy for Placenta Accreta Spectrum

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness and safety of prophylactic multivessel selective embolization (MVSE) compared to those of internal iliac artery occlusion balloon (IIABO) placement in patients undergoing cesarean hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

An institutional review board-approved retrospective series was conducted with consecutive patients with PAS at a single institution between 2010 and 2021. MVSE was performed in a hybrid operating room after cesarean section prior to hysterectomy. IIABO was performed with balloons placed into the bilateral internal iliac arteries, which were inflated during hysterectomy. Median blood loss, transfusion requirements, percentage of cases requiring transfusion, and adverse events were recorded.

RESULTS

A total of 20 patients treated with embolization and 34 patients with balloon placement were included. Placenta percreta and previa were seen in 60% and 90% of patients, respectively. Median blood loss in the MVSE group was 713 mL (interquartile range [IQR], 475-1,000 mL) compared to 2,000 mL (IQR, 1,500-2,425 mL) in the IIABO group (P < .0001). The median total number of units of packed red blood cell transfusions (0 vs 2.5) and percentage of cases requiring a transfusion (20% vs 65%) were less in the MVSE group (P < .01). A median of 4 vessels (IQR, 3-9) were embolized during MVSE. No major adverse events or nontarget embolization consequences were observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Prophylactic MVSE is a safe procedure that reduces operative blood loss and transfusion requirements compared to those of IIABO in patients undergoing cesarean hysterectomy for presumed higher-degree PAS.

Placenta previa percreta with surrounding organ involvement: a proposal for management

Placenta accreta spectrum encompasses cases where the placenta is morbidly adherent to the myometrium. Placenta percreta, the most severe form of placenta accreta spectrum (grade 3E), occurs when the placenta invades through the myometrium and possibly into surrounding structures next to the uterine corpus. Maternal morbidity of placenta percreta is high, including severe maternal morbidity in 82.1% and mortality in 1.4% in the recent nationwide U.S. statistics. Although cesarean hysterectomy is commonly performed for patients with placenta accreta spectrum, conservative management is becoming more popular because of reduced morbidity in select cases. Treatment of grade 3E disease involving the urinary bladder, uterine cervix, or parametria is surgically complicated due to the location of the invasive placenta deep in the maternal pelvis. Cesarean hysterectomy in this setting has the potential for catastrophic hemorrhage and significant damage to surrounding organs. We propose a step-by-step schema to evaluate cases of grade 3E disease and determine whether immediate hysterectomy or conservative management, including planned delayed hysterectomy, is the most appropriate treatment option. The approach includes evaluation in the antenatal period with ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging to determine suspicion for placenta previa percreta with surrounding organ involvement, planned cesarean delivery with a multidisciplinary team including experienced pelvic surgeons such as a gynecologic oncologist, intra-operative assessment including gross surgical field exposure and examination, cystoscopy, and consideration of careful intra-operative transvaginal ultrasound to determine the extent of placental invasion into surrounding organs. This evaluation helps decide the safety of primary cesarean hysterectomy. If safely resectable, additional considerations include intra-operative use of uterine artery embolization combined with tranexamic acid injection in cases at high risk for pelvic hemorrhage and ureteral stent placement. Availability of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is ideal. If safe resection is concerned, conservative management including planned delayed hysterectomy at around 4 weeks from cesarean delivery in stable patients is recommended.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is one of the most dangerous conditions in pregnancy and is increasing in frequency. The risk of life-threatening bleeding is present throughout pregnancy but is particularly high at the time of delivery. Although the exact cause is unknown, the result is clear: Severe PAS distorts the uterus and surrounding anatomy and transforms the pelvis into an extremely high-flow vascular state. Screening for risk factors and assessing placental location by antenatal ultrasonography are essential for timely diagnosis. Further evaluation and confirmation of PAS are best performed in referral centers with expertise in antenatal imaging and surgical management of PAS. In the United States, cesarean hysterectomy with the placenta left in situ after delivery of the fetus is the most common treatment for PAS, but even in experienced referral centers, this treatment is often morbid, resulting in prolonged surgery, intraoperative injury to the urinary tract, blood transfusion, and admission to the intensive care unit. Postsurgical complications include high rates of posttraumatic stress disorder, pelvic pain, decreased quality of life, and depression. Team-based, patient-centered, evidence-based care from diagnosis to full recovery is needed to optimally manage this potentially deadly disorder. In a field that has relied mainly on expert opinion, more research is needed to explore alternative treatments and adjunctive surgical approaches to reduce blood loss and postoperative complications.

General Management Considerations for Placenta Accreta Spectrum

The ideal management of a patient with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) includes close antepartum management culminating in a planned and coordinated delivery by an experienced multidisciplinary PAS team. Coordinated team management has been shown to optimize outcomes for mother and infant. This section provides a consensus overview from the Pan-American Society for the Placenta Accreta Spectrum regarding general management of PAS.

Knowledge Gaps in Placenta Accreta Spectrum

Since its first description early in the 20th Century, placenta accreta and its variants have changed substantially in incidence, risk factor profile, clinical presentation, diagnosis and management. While systematic use of diagnostic tools and a multidisciplinary team care approach has begun to improve patient outcomes, the condition's pathophysiology, epidemiology, and best practices for diagnosis and management remain poorly understood. The use of large databases with broadly accepted terminology and diagnostic criteria should accelerate research in this area. Future work should focus on non-traditional phenotypes, such as those without placenta previa-preventive strategies, and long term medical and emotional support for patients facing this diagnosis. KEY POINTS: · Placenta accreta spectrum research may be improved with standardized terminology and use of large databases.. · Placenta accreta prediction should move beyond ultrasound with the addition of biomarkers, and needs to extend to those without traditional risk factors.. · Future research should identify practices that can prevent future accreta development..

Placenta Accreta Spectrum and Postpartum Hemorrhage

Placenta accreta spectrum is a group of disorders involving abnormal trophoblastic invasion to the deep layers of endometrium and myometrium. Placenta accrete spectrum is one of the major causes of severe maternal morbidity, with increasing incidence in the past decade mainly secondary to an increase in cesarean deliveries. Severity varies depending on the depth of invasion, with the most severe form, known as percreta, invading uterine serosa or surrounding pelvic organs. Diagnosis is usually achieved by ultrasound, and MRI is sometimes used to assess invasion. Management usually involves a hysterectomy at the time of delivery. Other strategies include delayed hysterectomy or expectant management.

Is conservative management of placenta accreta spectrum disorders practical in the United States?

This commentary discusses the issues related to conservative management (also called leaving the placenta in situ or intentional retention of the placenta) of placenta accreta spectrum disorders. Considerations related to placenta accreta spectrum disorder management in the United States are compared with France, where conservative management is a well-accepted management option. The history of placenta accreta spectrum disorder treatment is reviewed, finding that since 1937, the most common treatment in the United States been cesarean-hysterectomy without placental removal. Although definitive studies have yet to be conducted, a growing body of evidence suggests that conservative management is able to reduce maternal morbidity, compared with cesarean-hysterectomy. International and national guidelines from several countries are examined. Comparisons between the United States and France that are addressed in the commentary include population and geography, structure of the healthcare system, physician training and acceptability, and patient acceptability. Considering the differences between the countries, conservative management is feasible in the United States. Different options for placenta accreta spectrum disorder management should be rigorously researched in multicenter international collaborations. Conservative management should be considered as an option for women with placenta accreta spectrum disorders in the United States, especially for those desiring fertility preservation.

Incidence and Clinical Implications of Placenta Accreta Spectrum after Treatment for Asherman Syndrome

STUDY OBJECTIVE

To investigate the incidence, predictors, and clinical implications of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) in pregnancies after hysteroscopic treatment for Asherman syndrome (AS).

DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study, conducted through a telephone survey and chart review.

SETTING

Minimally invasive gynecologic surgery center in an academic community hospital.

PATIENTS

Database of 355 patients hysteroscopically treated for AS over 4 years. We identified patients who achieved pregnancy past the first trimester and evaluated the incidence and predictors for PAS as well as associated clinical implications.

INTERVENTIONS

Telephone survey.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

We identified 97 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. Among these patients, 23 (23.7%) patients had PAS. History of cesarean delivery was the only variable statistically significantly associated with having PAS (adjusted odds ratio 4.03, 95% confidence interval 1.31-12.39). PAS was diagnosed antenatally in 3 patients (14.3%), with patients having placenta previa more likely to be diagnosed (p <.01). Nine patients (39.13%) with PAS required cesarean hysterectomy, which is 9.3% of those with a pregnancy that progressed past the first trimester. Factors associated with cesarean hysterectomy were the etiology of AS (dilation and evacuation after the second trimester pregnancy or postpartum instrumentation, p <.01), invasive placenta (increta or percreta, p <.05), and history of morbidly adherent placenta in previous pregnancies (p <.05). Two patients with PAS (9.5%) had uterine rupture, and another 2 (9.5%) experienced uterine inversion.

CONCLUSION

There is a high incidence of PAS and associated morbidity in pregnancies after hysteroscopic treatment for AS. There is a low rate of antenatal diagnosis as well as a lack of reliable clinical predictors, which both stress the importance of clinical awareness, careful counseling, and delivery planning.

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: Prenatal Diagnosis and Management

The incidence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is increasing and is now about 3 per 1000 deliveries, largely due to the rising cesarean section rate. Ultrasound is the preferred method for diagnosis of PAS. Ultrasound markers include multiple vascular lacunae, loss of the hypoechoic retroplacental zone, abnormalities of the uterine serosa-bladder interface, retroplacental myometrial thickness less than 1 mm, increased placental vascularity, and observation of bridging vessels linking the placenta and bladder. Patients with PAS should be managed by experienced multidisciplinary teams. Hysterectomy is the accepted management of PAS and conservative or expectant management of PAS should be considered investigational.

Association of Placenta Previa With Severe Maternal Morbidity Among Patients With Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorder

IMPORTANCE

Placenta previa is widely acknowledged as a risk factor for placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders, which are severe maternal complications; however, data are limited regarding whether placenta previa is associated with a higher risk of worse maternal outcomes among patients with PAS disorders.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the association between placenta previa and the risk of severe maternal morbidities (SMMs) and higher resource use among patients with PAS disorders.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study extracted records of 3793 patients with PAS diagnosis and delivery indicators between October 1, 2015, and December 31, 2019, from the US National Inpatient Sample database.

EXPOSURES

Placenta previa.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Data on 21 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention-defined SMMs and 25 study-defined surgical morbidities associated with PAS were extracted. Six surgical procedures (cystoscopy, intra-arterial balloon occlusion, cesarean delivery, hysterectomy, cystectomy, and oophorectomy), hospital length of stay, and inpatient costs were compared. Multivariable Poisson regression models built in the generalized estimating equation framework were used.

RESULTS

Among 3793 patients with PAS (median [IQR] age at admission, 33 [29-37] years), 621 women (16.4%) were Black, 765 (20.2%) were Hispanic, 1779 (46.9%) were White, 441 (11.6%) were of other races and/or ethnicities (47 [1.2%] were American Indian, 220 [5.8%] were Asian or Pacific Islander, and 174 [4.6%] were of multiple or other races and/or ethnicities), and 187 (4.9%) were of unknown race and ethnicity. A total of 1323 patients (34.9%) had placenta previa and 2470 patients (65.1%) did not; of those with placenta previa, 405 patients (30.6%) had invasive PAS. Patients with vs without placenta previa had a significantly higher rate and risk of any SMM (935 women [70.7%] vs 1087 women [44.0%]; P < .001; adjusted risk ratio [aRR], 1.19; 95% CI, 1.12-1.27) and any surgical morbidity (1170 women [88.4%] vs 1667 women [67.5%]; P < .001; aRR, 1.18; 95% CI, 1.13-1.23). With regard to specific outcomes, those with vs without placenta previa had a significantly higher rate of peripartum hemorrhage (878 patients [66.4%] vs 1217 patients [49.3%]; P < .001), blood product transfusion (413 patients [31.2%] vs 610 patients [24.7%]; P < .001), shock (83 patients [6.3%] vs 108 patients [4.4%]; P = .01), disseminated intravascular coagulation or other coagulopathy (77 patients [5.8%] vs 105 patients [4.3%]; P = .04), and urinary tract injury (44 patients [3.3%] vs 41 patients [1.7%]; P = .002). Patients with vs without placenta previa were more likely to undergo cesarean delivery (1292 patients [97.7%] vs 1787 patients [72.3%]; P < .001), hysterectomy (786 patients [59.4%] vs 689 patients [27.9%]; P < .001), cystoscopy (301 patients [22.8%] vs 203 patients [8.2%]; P < .001), cystectomy (157 patients [11.9%] vs 98 patients [4.0%]; P < .001), and intra-arterial balloon occlusion (121 patients [9.1%] vs 77 patients [3.1%]; P < .001) and to have significantly longer hospital length of stay (median [IQR], 5 [4-11] days vs 3 [3-5] days; P < .001) and total inpatient costs (median [IQR], $17 496 [$10 863-$30 619] vs $9728 [$6130-$16 790]; P < .001). Hypertensive disorder of pregnancy was associated with a decreased risk of placenta previa (aRR, 0.67; 95% CI, 0.46-0.96) among patients with PAS.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this study, placenta previa was associated with an increased risk of maternal and surgical morbidities and higher resource use among women with PAS. These findings suggest that interventions to alleviate maternal and surgical morbidities are especially needed for patients with placenta previa-complicated PAS disorders.

Risk of Subsequent Hysterectomy after Expectant Management in the Treatment of Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorders

Management strategies for pregnancies with abnormal adherence/invasion of the placenta (placenta accreta spectrum, PAS) vary between centers. Expectant management (EM), defined as leaving the placenta in situ after the delivery of the baby, until its complete decomposition and elimination, has become a potential option for PAS disorders in selected cases, in which the risk of Caesarean hysterectomy is very high. However, expectant management has its own risks and complications. The aim of this study was to describe the rates of subsequent hysterectomy (HT) in patients that underwent EM for the treatment of PAS disorders. We reviewed the literature on the subject and found 12 studies reporting cases of HT after initial intended EM. The studies included 1918 pregnant women diagnosed with PAS, of whom 518 (27.1%) underwent EM. Out of these, 121 (33.2%) required subsequent HT in the 12 months following delivery. The rates of HT after initial EM were very different between the studies, ranging from 0 to 85.7%, reflecting the different characteristics of the patients and different institutional management protocols. Prospective multicenter studies, in which the inclusion criteria and management strategies would be uniform, are needed to better understand the role EM might play in the treatment of PAS disorders.

Placenta accreta spectrum: a non-oncologic challenge for gynecologic oncologists

Placenta accreta spectrum disorders are a major risk factor for severe postpartum hemorrhage and maternal death worldwide, with a rapidly growing incidence in recent decades due to increasing rates of cesarean section. Placenta accreta spectrum disorders represent a complex surgical challenge, with the primary concern of massive obstetrical hemorrhagic sequelae and organ damage, occurring in the context of potentially significant anatomical and physiological changes of pregnancy. Most international obstetrical organizations have published guidelines on placenta accreta spectrum, embracing the creation of regionalized 'Centers of Excellence' in the diagnosis and management of placenta accreta spectrum, which includes a dedicated multidisciplinary surgical team. One mandatory criterion for these Centers of Excellence is the presence of a surgeon experienced in complex pelvic surgeries. Indeed, many institutions in the United States and worldwide rely on gynecologic oncologists in the surgical management of placenta accreta spectrum due to their experience and skills in complex pelvic surgery. Surgical management of placenta accreta spectrum frequently includes challenging pelvic dissection in regions with distortion of anatomy alongside large aberrant neovascularization. With a goal of definitive management through cesarean hysterectomy, surgeons require a systematic and thoughtful approach to promote prevention of urologic injuries, embrace measures to secure challenging hemostasis and, in selected cases, employ conservative management where indicated or desired. In this review recommendations are made for gynecologic oncologists regarding the management and important considerations in the successful care of placenta accreta spectrum disorders. Where required, gynecologic oncologists are encouraged to be proactively involved in the management of placenta accreta spectrum, not only intra-operatively, but also in the development of clinical protocols, guidelines, and pre-operative counseling of patients, as a 'call if needed' approach is suboptimal for this potentially major and life-threatening condition.

Improved management of placenta accreta spectrum disorders: experience from a single institution

OBJECTIVES

To assess the applicability of a standardized multidisciplinary protocol for managing placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders and its impact on the outcomes.

METHODS

We compared patients with PAS manage by a standardized multidisciplinary protocol (T2) to historic controls managed on a case-by-case basis by individual physicians between (T1). The primary outcome is composite maternal morbidity. Secondary outcomes were the rates of surgical complications, estimated blood loss, number of blood products transfused, intensive care unit admissions, ventilator use, and birth weight. Multivariate logistic analysis was used to identify independent predictors of composite maternal morbidity.

RESULTS

During T1 and T2, we managed 39 and 36 patients with confirmed PAS, respectively. During T2, the protocol could be implemented in 21 cases (58%). Compared to T1, patients managed during T2 had 70% less composite maternal morbidity (95% CI: 0.11-0.82) and lower blood loss (median, 2,000 vs. 1,100 mL, p=0.008). Also, they were 68% less likely to require transfusion of blood products (95% CI: 0.12-0.81; p=0.01), including fewer units of packed red blood cells (median, 2 vs. 0, p=0.02). Management following the protocol was the only independent factor associated with lower composite maternal morbidity (OR: 0.22; 95% CI: 0.05-0.95; p=0.04). Selected maternal and neonatal outcomes were not different among 12 and 15 patients with suspected but unconfirmed PAS disorders managed during T1 and T2, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS

Most patients can be managed under a standardized multidisciplinary protocol for PAS disorders, leading to improved outcomes.

Cervical tourniquet during cesarean section to reduce bleeding in morbidly adherent placenta: a pilot study

Objective:

To evaluate a modified surgical technique aiming to reduce bleeding and preserve fertility in morbidly adherent placenta by cervical tourniquet in cesarean sections.

Methods:

The cesarean section operations and the cervical ligation approach were performed by a single expert consultant obstetrician. The general demographics and clinical characteristics for all participants were collected and studied.

Results:

Eleven participants were involved. The uterus was preserved in nine patients, whereas two patients had hysterectomy. The mean blood loss was 1688.8 ml for patients whose uterus was preserved. The mean length of stay was 5.5 days.

Conclusion:

Cervical ligation is a simple method that can be applied by junior and experienced obstetricians to preserve the uterus.

Placenta accreta is the abnormal adhesion of placenta into the uterine wall. It carries a significant risk for hysterectomy, intrapartum and postpartum hemorrhage, and maternal morbidity and mortality. As the preservation of fertility and femininity is desired by many women, numerous methods were adapted to avoid hysterectomy in patients with placenta accreta. In this study, we describe and evaluate a novel technique to preserve the uterus by ligating the cervix with a Foley catheter.

Urologic morbidity associated with placenta accreta spectrum surgeries: single-center experience with a multidisciplinary team

BACKGROUND

Hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum may be associated with urologic morbidity, including intentional or unintentional cystostomy, ureteral injury, and bladder fistula. Although previous retrospective studies have shown an association between placenta accreta spectrum and urologic morbidities, there is still a paucity of literature addressing these urologic complications.

OBJECTIVE

We sought to report a systematic description of such morbidity and associated factors.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective study of all histology-proven placenta accreta spectrum deliveries in an academic center between 2011 and 2020. Urologic morbidity was defined as the presence of at least one of the following: cystotomy, ureteral injury, or bladder fistula. Variables were reported as median (interquartile range) or number (percentage). Analyses were made using appropriate parametric and nonparametric tests. Multinomial regression analysis was performed to assess the association of adverse urologic events with the depth of placental invasion.

RESULTS

In this study, 58 of 292 patients (19.9%) experienced urologic morbidity. Patients with urologic morbidity had a higher rate of placenta percreta (compared with placenta accreta and placenta increta) than those without such injuries. Preoperative ureteral stents were placed in 54 patients (93.1%) with and 146 patients (62.4%) without urologic injury (P=.003). After adjusting for confounding variables, multinomial regression analysis revealed that the odds of having adverse urologic events was 6.5 times higher in patients with placenta percreta than in patients with placenta accreta.

CONCLUSION

Greater depth of invasion in placenta accreta spectrum was associated with more frequent and severe adverse urologic events. Whether stent placement confers any protective benefit requires further investigation.

Parallel Loop Binding Compression Suture, a Modified Procedure for Pernicious Placenta Previa Complicated With Placenta Increta

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of parallel loop binding compression suture of the lower uterus during cesarean section in pernicious placenta previa complicated with placenta increta.

Methods: This retrospective study was performed in patients with pernicious placenta previa complicated with placenta increta or percreta between November 2014 and December 2020 at the Qilu Hospital of Shandong University. Patients underwent parallel loop binding compression suture surgery were defined as study group, and patients underwent traditional surgery with figure-of-eight sutures as the main hemostatic method were defined as control group. Postpartum hemorrhage was evaluated as the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes included age, gestational weeks, operative time, fetal childbirth time, prevention of hysterectomy, blood transfusion, duration of postoperative catheterization, duration of antibiotic treatment, and postoperative hospitalization (days). Additionally, neonatal outcomes were evaluated.

Results: A total of 124 patients were enrolled in the study, including 38 patients receiving parallel loop binding compression suture surgery in the study group, and 86 patients in the control group. With parallel loop binding compression suture, the average operation time was significantly reduced (109.0 ± 33.5 vs. 134.4 ± 54.2 min, p = 0.00), and the volume of blood lost were also decreased (2152.6 ± 1169.4 vs. 2960.5 ± 1963.6 ml, p = 0.02), which correspondingly reduced RBC transfusion (7.2 ± 3.5 vs. 10.3 ± 8.7 units, p = 0.03) and FFP transfusion (552.6 ± 350.3 vs. 968.0 ± 799.8 ml, p = 0.00). The fetal childbirth time was extended (14.1 ± 5.6 vs. 11.0 ± 8.0 min, p = 0.03), however, there was no increase in NICU admission rates (36.9 vs. 34.9%, p = 0.83). Except for one premature infant (32 weeks) death in the control group, all infants at our hospital were safely discharged after treatment.

Conclusion: Parallel loop binding compression suture is an effective, swift, practical, and safe method to reduce postpartum bleeding in women with pernicious placenta previa, complicated with placenta increta. Besides, it has no adverse effects on newborns.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Outcomes Using Tourniquet and Forceps for Vascular Control

Objective: To evaluate the use of tourniquet and forceps to reduce bleeding during surgical treatment of severe placenta accreta spectrum (placenta increta and placenta percreta). Methods: A tourniquet was used in the lower part of the uterus during surgical treatment of severe placenta accreta spectrum. Severe placenta accreta spectrum was classified into two types according to the relative position of the placenta and tourniquet during surgery: upper-tourniquet type, in which the entire placenta was above the tourniquet, and lower-tourniquet type, in which part or all of the placenta was below the tourniquet. The surgical effects of the two types were retrospectively compared. We then added forceps to the lower-tourniquet group to achieve further bleeding reduction. Finally, the surgical effects of the two types were prospectively compared. Results: During the retrospective phase, patients in the lower-tourniquet group experienced more severe symptoms than did patients in the upper-tourniquet group, based on mean intraoperative blood loss (upper-tourniquet group 787.5 ml, lower-tourniquet group 1434.4 ml) intensive care unit admission rate (upper-tourniquet group 1.0%, lower-tourniquet group 33.3%), and length of hospital stay (upper-tourniquet group 10.2d, lower-tourniquet group 12.1d). During the prospective phase, after introduction of the revised surgical method involving forceps (in the lower-tourniquet group), the lower-tourniquet group exhibited improvements in the above indicators (intraoperative average blood loss 722.9 ml, intensive care unit admission rate 4.3%, hospital stays 9.0d). No increase in the rate of complications was observed. Conclusion: The relative positions of the placenta and tourniquet may influence the perioperative risk of severe placenta accreta spectrum. The method using a tourniquet (and forceps if necessary) can improve the surgical effect in cases of severe placenta accreta spectrum.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) refers to the range of pathologic adherence of the placenta to the uterine myometrium, including the placenta accreta, increta, and percreta. The incidence of PAS is rising primarily because of an increase in related risk factors, such as the rate of cesarean deliveries and pregnancies resulting from assisted reproductive technology. The maternal risks associated with PAS are significant, including hemorrhage, hysterectomy, and death. Fetal and neonatal risks are primarily the result of premature delivery. Antenatal diagnosis via ultrasonography and magnetic resonance imaging remains imperfect. Management of PAS varies, however, and there is a clear improvement in maternal outcomes with an antenatal diagnosis compared with unexpected diagnosis at the time of delivery. Studies that evaluate the balance between maternal and fetal/neonatal risks of expectant management versus preterm delivery have found that planned delivery between 34 and 35 weeks' gestation optimizes outcomes. Multidisciplinary PAS care teams have become the norm and recommended approach to management, given the complexity of caring for this obstetrical condition. Although significant advances have been made over the years, large knowledge gaps remain in understanding the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and clinical management.

Suspected Placenta Accreta: Using Imaging to Stratify Risk of Morbidity

OBJECTIVE

This study was aimed to compare clinical outcomes and use of interventions in women with suspected accreta based on the degree of antenatal suspicion.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study of women with suspected accreta from 2007 to 2019. Included patients had one or more imaging studies suggestive of accreta. Cases were classified as "lower risk" if imaging showed possible signs of accreta including mild or superficial myometrial infiltration, an abnormal uterine contour, an abnormal uteroplacental interface, or loss of the retroplacental hypoechoic zone and "higher risk" if there was clear evidence of more than superficial myometrial infiltration, placental tissue extruding beyond the uterine serosa, bridging vessel(s), or placental lacunae with high velocity and/or turbulent flow. The primary study outcome was a composite maternal morbidity including cesarean hysterectomy, transfusion of blood or blood products, unintentional cystotomy, or intensive care unit (ICU) admission. Chi-square, Fisher's exact test, and Mann-Whitney U-test were used for analysis.

RESULTS

A total of 78 women had a suspected accreta on imaging, 36 with "lower risk" features and 42 with "higher risk" features. There were no differences in baseline maternal demographics. Women in the "higher risk" group were more likely to have a placenta previa (p < 0.01) and preoperative consultation with gynecologic oncology (p = 0.04). There was a significant difference in composite maternal morbidity between patients with "lower risk" and "higher risk" features of accreta on imaging (50 vs. 92.9%, p < 0.01). Median gestational age at planned and actual delivery were earlier in the "higher risk" group (36.6 vs. 34.9 weeks, p < 0.01; 36.0 vs. 34.7 weeks, p < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Stratification of women with suspected accreta based on imaging corresponded to rates of maternal morbidity and operative complications, and appears to have been used clinically in selecting timing of delivery and interventions.

KEY POINTS

· Increased morbidity with high risk accreta imaging.. · Interventions correlate with accreta imaging risk.. · Imaging can be used to stratify accreta cases..

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Treatment With Intraoperative Multivessel Embolization: the PASTIME protocol

BACKGROUND

Multidisciplinary care of placenta accreta spectrum cases improves pregnancy outcomes, but the specific components of such a multidisciplinary collaboration varies between institutions. As experience with placenta accreta spectrum increases, it is crucial to assess new surgical techniques and protocols to help improve maternal outcomes and to advocate for hospital resources.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess a novel multidisciplinary protocol for the treatment of placenta accreta spectrum that comprises cesarean delivery, multivessel uterine embolization, and hysterectomy in a single procedure within a hybrid operative suite.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a matched prepost study of placenta accreta spectrum cases managed before (2010-2017) and after implementation of the Placenta Accreta Spectrum Treatment With Intraoperative Multivessel Embolization protocol (2018-2021) at a tertiary medical center. Historical cases were managed with internal iliac artery balloon placement in selected cases with the decision to inflate the balloons intraoperatively at the discretion of the primary surgeon. Intraoperative Embolization cases were compared with historical cases in a 1:2 ratio matched on the basis of placenta accreta spectrum severity and surgical urgency. The primary outcome was a requirement for transfusion with packed red blood cells. Secondary outcomes included estimated surgical blood loss, operative and postoperative complications, procedural time, length of stay, and neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

A total of 15 Placenta Accreta Spectrum Treatment With Intraoperative Multivessel Embolization cases and 30 matched historical cases were included in the analysis. There were no demographic differences noted between the groups. A median (interquartile range) of 0 units (0-2 units) of packed red blood cells were transfused in the Intraoperative Embolization group compared with 2 units (0-4.5 units) in the historical group (P=.045); 5 of 15 (33.3%) Intraoperative Embolization cases required blood transfusions compared with 19 of 30 (63.3%) cases in the historical group (P=.11). The estimated blood loss was significantly less in the Intraoperative Embolization group with a median (interquartile range) of 750 mL (450-1050 mL) compared with 1750 mL (1050-2500 mL) in the historical group (P=.003). There were no cases requiring massive transfusion (≥10 red blood cell units in 24 hours) in the Intraoperative Embolization group compared with 5 of 30 (16.7%) cases in the historical group (P=.15). There were no intraoperative deaths from hemorrhagic shock using the Intraoperative Embolization protocol, whereas this occurred in 2 of the historical cases. The mean duration of the interventional radiology procedure was longer in the Intraoperative Embolization group (67.8 vs 34.1 minutes; P=.002). Intensive care unit admission and postpartum length of stay were similar, and surgical and postoperative complications were not significantly different between the groups. The gestational age and neonatal birthweights were similar; however, the neonatal length of stay was longer in the Intraoperative Embolization group (median duration, 32 days vs 15 days; P=.02) with a trend toward low Apgar scores. Incidence of arterial umbilical cord blood pH <7.2 and respiratory distress syndrome and intubation rates were not statistically different between the groups.

CONCLUSION

A multidisciplinary pathway including a single-surgery protocol with multivessel uterine embolization is associated with a decrease in blood transfusion requirements and estimated blood loss with no increase in operative complications. The Placenta Accreta Spectrum Treatment With Intraoperative Multivessel Embolization protocol provides a definitive surgical method that warrants consideration by other centers specializing in placenta accreta spectrum treatment.

Conservative stepwise surgical approach for management of placenta previa accreta: A prospective case series study

OBJECTIVE

To describe a stepwise surgical approach for conservative management of placenta previa accreta to preserve the uterus and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this approach in controlling postpartum hemorrhage including intrapartum hemorrhage.

METHODS

A prospective case series study conducted on 62 pregnant women with one or more cesarean deliveries diagnosed with placenta previa accreta between January 2018 and June 2019 at Ain Shams University Maternity Hospital. All participants underwent a conservative stepwise surgical approach through Pfannenstiel skin incision with fetal delivery through a uterine incision just above the upper border of the placenta, followed by bilateral uterine artery ligation with myometrial excision of the remaining adherent placenta and cervico-isthmic sutures by MMG (the main surgeon) and MS.

RESULTS

Among 62 women, the surgical approach was successful in controlling postpartum hemorrhage and preserving the uterus in 50 (80.64%) participants. Three women (4.83%) had urinary bladder injuries, all were managed intraoperatively during the cesarean section. Five women (8%) had postpartum pyrexia and five women (8%) had postpartum endometritis, all were managed conservatively with broad-spectrum antibiotics.

CONCLUSION

The stepwise surgical approach can be applied to the conservative management of placenta previa accreta to avoid unnecessary cesarean hysterectomy.

Diagnosis and Management of Cesarean Scar Pregnancy and Placenta Accreta Spectrum: Case Series and Review of the Literature

With an increased cesarean delivery rate, the incidence of abnormal placentation is steadily rising, and it is estimated to be around 1.7 per 1000 pregnancies for cesarean scar pregnancy and 1 per 500 pregnancies for placenta accreta spectrum disorder. Current evidence considers cesarean scar pregnancy and placenta accreta spectrum as being the same condition, with different aspects, of the same spectrum, having higher risks with advancing gestation. We present 7 cases, diagnosed and managed in our hospital, at different gestational ages. Early diagnosis is essential for appropriate counseling and subsequent management, and an ultrasound examination is the reference standard for diagnosis. Screening for an abnormally implanted placenta in the first trimester of pregnancy might improve the perinatal outcome and reduce maternal morbidity and mortality.

Cesarean Hysterectomy in Abnormally Invasive Placenta: The Role of Prenatal Diagnosis

An abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) is a placenta that cannot be removed spontaneously or manually without causing severe bleeding. It is a dangerous condition associated with a high rate of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality due to the high rate of massive bleeding and visceral injuries. The standardized ultrasound diagnostic criteria have helped improve its early diagnosis, which is essential to plan coordinated actions to reduce associated morbimortality. We present a case report in which ultrasound diagnosis played a decisive role, enabling the coordination of a multidisciplinary team and improving the immediate care of both mother and newborn. Cesarean hysterectomy was performed with minimal blood loss and a good postsurgical recovery.

Minimally invasive management of retained products of conception and the adherent placenta

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Retained products of conception (POC) may occur independently or as a consequence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). Managing these conditions depends on the clinical scenario, and in some cases, can involve the use of minimally invasive techniques. This review presents the role of hysteroscopy and laparoscopy in the treatment of retained POC and the adherent placenta.

RECENT FINDINGS

Hysteroscopic resection of retained POC is reported to have favorable outcomes compared to blind dilation and curettage, including higher success rates and a lower risk of intrauterine adhesion formation. Hysteroscopic and laparoscopic techniques for managing PAS are limited to select cases where uterine preservation is desired, or a laparoscopic gravid or postpartum delayed hysterectomy is feasible. Data on these methods are limited to case reports.

SUMMARY

A hysteroscopic approach is preferred over dilation and curettage for retained POC. Minimally invasive surgery may have a role in unique cases of PAS.

Placental uterine artery embolization followed by delayed hysterectomy for placenta percreta: A case series

•

Approximately 23% of women intending delayed hysterectomy for placenta accreta spectrum will have an unscheduled surgery.

•

Targeted embolization for placenta accreta spectrum appears to be a safe and feasible adjunct to surgical management.

•

Placental regression may contribute to discrepancy between intraoperative and pathology diagnoses in delayed hysterectomy.

•

A multidisciplinary approach to placenta accreta spectrum is associated with a lower blood loss.

We describe outcomes of patients with suspected placenta percreta treated with placental uterine artery embolization (P-UAE) followed by delayed hysterectomy. This is a prospective case series of subjects from 2005 to 2018 with suspected placenta percreta who underwent P-UAE at the time of cesarean delivery followed by delayed hysterectomy. Both scheduled and unscheduled surgical cases were included. Maternal characteristics, surgical approaches, intra- and postoperative outcomes were abstracted from medical records. In total, twenty-two subjects were included. Median (interquartile range, IQR) delivery gestational age was 34.6 (31.9, 35.7) weeks, occurring as scheduled in 17 (77.3%) subjects and unscheduled in 5 (22.7%). Delayed hysterectomy was performed as scheduled in 17 (77.3%) subjects at a median (IQR) 40.5 (38.0, 44.0) days after delivery, and 5 (22.7%) subjects had a hysterectomy prior to scheduled date, median (IQR) 27.0 (17.0, 35.0) days after delivery. Indications for the 5 unscheduled hysterectomies included bleeding (n = 3) and suspected endometritis (n = 2). Three subjects (13.6%) received a blood transfusion (1, 3, 3 units) during delivery, and 7 (31.8%) were transfused during delayed hysterectomy (median [IQR] 2 [1,3] units). Three (13.6%) subjects had bladder resection at the time of hysterectomy; 1 (4.5%) had an unintentional cystotomy and 1 (4.5%) had a ureteral injury. P-UAE followed by delayed hysterectomy appears to be a safe and feasible, although appropriate patient selection and close surveillance are imperative, as 22.7% of patients underwent unscheduled hysterectomy.

A 5-year experience on perinatal outcome of placenta accreta spectrum disorder managed by cesarean hysterectomy in southern Iranian women

Background

We aimed to investigate the risk factors of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorder, management options and maternal and neonatal outcomes of these pregnancies in a resource-limited clinical setting.

Methods

All women diagnosed with placenta accreta, increta, and percreta who underwent peripartum hysterectomy using a multidisciplinary approach in a tertiary center in Shiraz, southern Iran between January 2015 until October 2019 were included in this retrospective cohort study. Maternal variables, such as estimated blood loss, transfusion requirements and ICU admission, as well as neonatal variables such as, Apgar score, NICU admission and birthweight, were among the primary outcomes of this study.

Results

A total number of 198 pregnancies underwent peripartum hysterectomy due to PAS during the study period, of whom163 pregnancies had antenatal diagnosis of PAS. The mean gestational age at the time of diagnosis was 26 weeks, the mean intra-operative blood loss was 2446 ml, and an average of 2 packs of red blood cells were transfused intra-operatively. Fifteen percent of women had surgical complications with bladder injuries being the most common complication. Furthermore, 113 neonates of PAS group were admitted to NICU due to prematurity of which 15 (7.6%) died in neonatal period.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that PAS pregnancies managed in a resource-limited setting in Southern Iran have both maternal and neonatal outcomes comparable to those in developed countries, which is hypothesized to be due to high rate of antenatal diagnosis (86.3%) and multidisciplinary approach used for the management of pregnancies with PAS.

Placenta accreta spectrum: Management and outcomes in a tertiary centre in India: An observational cross-sectional study

Our observational cross-sectional study looked at the risk factors, diagnosis, management and outcomes of placenta accrete spectrum at the Christian Medical College and Hospital, Vellore, India, between January 2013 and December 2018. A total of 21 cases of placenta accrete spectrum are described among whom a preop diagnosis was available in 14 cases. A previous history of Caesarean section and placenta previa was present in 90%. Caesarean hysterectomy was carried out in 80%, but none of those managed conservatively required interval hysterectomy. Urinary tract injury was the most common surgical complication, seen in over 50%. The mean blood loss was 3.5 l and 14 patients required intensive care unit admission, but no maternal mortality ensued. Thus, we conclude that the conservative management in carefully selected cases is feasible.

Aortic clamping for limiting blood loss at cesarean hysterectomy for placenta percreta: A case series

OBJECTIVE

In women with placenta percreta, cesarean hysterectomy is associated with massive blood loss during dissection of bladder from lower uterine segment. We studied the safety and effectiveness of temporary aortic clamping as a method of limiting blood loss at cesarean hysterectomy in women with placenta percreta.

METHODS

This was a retrospective case series of 15 women with placenta percreta who underwent cesarean section with total hysterectomy at KEM Hospital, Pune, India, with a technique of temporary clamping of the infra-renal aorta for reducing blood loss during hysterectomy.

RESULTS

Fifteen women with placenta percreta underwent classical cesarean section followed by total hysterectomy with temporary clamping of the aorta. The procedure was associated with median estimated intra-operative blood loss of 650 ml. No woman had ureteric injury or needed post-operative intensive care. Aortic clamping for 28-70 min was not associated with any intra-operative vascular complications or post-operative ischemic lesions in the lower limbs, kidneys, or bowel.

CONCLUSION

Aortic clamping safely and effectively limited blood loss during cesarean hysterectomy for placenta percreta and thereby reduced transfusion requirements. It compares favorably with reported outcomes of other strategies of managing placenta percreta.

Pregnancy-related acute kidney injury and urological comorbidities in morbidly adherent placenta: A potential challenge to AKI-0by25

Pregnancy-related acute kidney injury (PRAKI) and urological complications can significantly increase the maternal morbidity and mortality, and morbidly adherent placenta (MAP) has been found to increase the risk of both. This is a four-year prospective study, conducted on patients with MAP. Baseline parameters (demographic/antenatal/perinatal), operative details (obstetric/urological/hemostatic), peri-operative complications (AKI/urological), and maternal/fetal outcomes were studied till six weeks after delivery. Statistical analysis was done using IBM SPSS Statistics version 21.0, and P <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Out of the 5475 deliveries conducted in the study period, 64 had adherent placentation. AKI occurred in 39.1% of patients, with severe AKI (AKIN-2, 3) in 10.9%, and significantly higher incidence in placenta percreta (P = 0.021, relative risk [RR] - 2.34), urological injuries (P = 0.001, RR - 2.86), and high blood loss (P = 0.001) on univariate analysis, but placenta percreta was the most statistically significant factor P = 0.049) on multivariate analysis. Urological involvement/injuries requiring intervention were encountered in 22 patients, with statistically significantly high incidence in placenta previa (P = 0.023, RR - 1.62), placenta percreta (P = 0.000, RR - 17.18), and patients undergoing hysterectomy (P = 0.000, RR - 2.01) on univariate analysis, but placenta percreta was most statistically significantly implicated on multivariate analysis (P = 0.017). AKI and urological injuries significantly increased the need for intensive care and days of hospitalization. On six-week follow-up, all AKI patients recovered completely; no urinary leak or vesico-vaginal fistula was seen in urologically intervened patients and no maternal mortality occurred. There is an alarmingly high incidence of PRAKI and urological complications in MAP, posing a great threat to their worldwide improving statistics. Awareness of this condition among renal fraternity can significantly improve the maternal renal and overall prognosis.

Placenta accreta spectrum-a catastrophic situation in obstetrics

Placenta accreta is a significant obstetric complication in which the placenta is completely or focally adherent to the myometrium. The worldwide incidence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is increasing day by day, mostly due to the increasing trends in cesarean section rates. The accurate and timely diagnosis of placenta accreta is important to improve the feto-maternal outcome. Although standard ultrasound is a reliable and primary tool for the diagnosis of placenta accreta, the absence of ultrasound findings does not preclude the diagnosis of placenta accreta. Therefore, clinical evaluation of risk factors is equally essential for the prediction of abnormal placental invasion. Pregnant women with a high impression or established diagnosis of placenta accreta should be managed by a multidisciplinary team in a specialist center. Traditionally, PAS has been managed by an emergency obstetric hysterectomy. Previously, few studies suggested a satisfactory success rate of conservative management in well-chosen cases, whereas few studies recommended delayed hysterectomy to reduce the amount of bleeding. The continuously increasing trends of PAS and the challenges for its routine management are the main motives behind this literature review.

Criteria for placenta accreta spectrum in the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics classification, and topographic invasion area are associated with massive hemorrhage in patients with placenta previa

INTRODUCTION

Placenta previa with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a life-threatening disease that results in massive hemorrhage. The clinical and histologic criteria of PAS were adopted according to the International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) classification. We aimed to investigate whether FIGO criteria and topography were associated with maternal complications in patients with placenta previa.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Patients with placenta previa who underwent cesarean section at our institution between January 2003 and December 2019 were identified. First, they were divided based on FIGO classification, as follows: Group A, with clinical criteria; Group B, with histologic criteria; and Group C: without clinical or histologic criteria. Next, cases with PAS were classified according to the topographic invasion area, as follows: type 1, upper posterior bladder; type 2, lower posterior bladder; type 3, parametrium; type 4, posterior lower uterine segment. Predictive factors for massive hemorrhage were retrospectively analyzed.

RESULTS

Among the 350 patients, 24 (6.9%) were classified as Group A, 16 (4.6%) as Group B and 310 (88.5%) as Group C. Regarding maternal history and hemostatic procedures, there were no significant factors other than hysterectomy (p < .01) in Groups A and B. The volume of blood loss in both Groups A and B was greater than in Group C (p < .01). The rates of uterine artery embolization and blood transfusion were higher in Groups A and B than in Group C (p < .01). In addition, there were no significant factors other than hysterectomy between Groups A and B. In the multivariate analysis for massive hemorrhage, Group A (odds ratio: 2.73, p = .04) and Group B (odds ratio: 12.69, p < .01) were identified as independent predictive factors. In addition, massive hemorrhage was closely related to the lower posterior bladder and parametrial invasion in both Groups A and B.

CONCLUSIONS

Both clinical and histologic criteria for PAS in the FIGO classification were associated with massive hemorrhage. Diagnosing clinical PAS using the FIGO classification, additional hemostatic procedures might be necessary according to the topographic invasion area.

What we know about placenta accreta spectrum (PAS)

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is an umbrella term for a variety of pregnancy complications due to abnormal placental implantation, including placenta accreta, placenta increta and placenta percreta. During the past several decades, the prevalence of PAS has been increasing, and the clinical importance of this disease is significant because of the severe complications. In this review, we summarized the available evidence-based data for PAS in various aspects: prevalence, risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical presentation and prenatal screening, and clinical management. Meanwhile, we provided a series of prospects in each section for further studies on PAS. Moreover, we first present a visualized workflow for the management of PAS from three steps: predelivery, during delivery and postdelivery.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Without Placenta Previa

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate placenta accreta spectrum with and without placenta previa with regard to risk factors, antepartum diagnosis, and maternal morbidity.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of pathology-confirmed placenta accreta spectrum deliveries with hysterectomy from two U.S. referral centers from January 2010-June 2019. Maternal, pregnancy, and delivery characteristics were compared among placenta accreta spectrum cases with (previa PAS group) and without (nonprevia PAS group) placenta previa. Surgical outcomes and a composite of severe maternal morbidities were evaluated, including eight or more blood cell units transfused, reoperation, pulmonary edema, acute kidney injury, thromboembolism, or death. Logistic regression was used with all analyses controlled for delivery location.

RESULTS

Of 351 deliveries, 106 (30%) had no placenta previa at delivery. When compared with the previa group, nonprevia placenta accreta spectrum was less likely to be identified antepartum (38%, 95% CI 28-48% vs 87%, 82-91%), less likely to receive care from a multidisciplinary team (41%, 31-51% vs 86%, 81-90%), and less likely to have invasive placenta increta or percreta (51% 41-61% vs 80%, 74-84%). The nonprevia group had more operative hysteroscopy (24%, 16-33% vs 6%, 3-9%) or in vitro fertilization (31%, 22-41% vs 9%, 6-13%) and was less likely to have had a prior cesarean delivery (64%, 54-73% vs 93%, 89-96%) compared with the previa group, though the majority in each group had a prior cesarean delivery. Rates of severe maternal morbidity were similar in the two groups, at 19% (nonprevia) and 20% (previa), even after controlling for confounders (adjusted odds ratio for the nonprevia group 0.59, 95% CI 0.30-1.17).

CONCLUSION

Placenta accreta spectrum without previa is less likely to be diagnosed antepartum, potentially missing the opportunity for multidisciplinary team management. Despite the absence of placenta previa and less placental invasion, severe maternal morbidity at delivery was not lower. Broader recognition of patients at risk for placenta accreta spectrum may improve early clinical diagnosis and patient outcomes.

Placenta Accreta Spectrum Disorders: Challenges, Risks, and Management Strategies

The worldwide incidence of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is rapidly increasing, following the trend of rising cesarean delivery. PAS is an heterogeneous condition associated with a high maternal morbidity and mortality rate, presenting unique challenges in its diagnosis and management. So far, the rarity of this condition, together with the absence of high quality evidence and the lack of a standardized approach in reporting PAS cases for the ultrasound, clinical, and pathologic diagnosis, represented the main challenges for a deep understanding of this condition. The study of the available management strategies of PAS has been hampered by the heterogeneity of the available epidemiological data on this condition. The aim of this review is to provide a critical view of the current available evidence on the screening, the diagnosis, and the management options for PAS disorders, with a special focus on the challenges we foresee for the near future.

Uterine conservation in placenta accrete spectrum (PAS) disorders: A retrospective case series: Is expectant management beneficial in reducing maternal morbidity?

OBJECTIVE

To examine whether expectant management confers any benefit on operative morbidity for the management of placenta accrete spectrum (PAS) disorders.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a single center retrospective cohort study at a tertiary referral center In Singapore. Women with PAS disorder between January 2006 and December 2017 were identified from the hospital register. Antenatal features, surgical factors and post-operative morbidity were compared between women having caesarean hysterectomy, those having caesarean section with placental removal and women having expectant management, defined as caesarean section with retention of placenta using the student's t and Chi square tests. The natural course, complications and preservation of fertility were examined for women having expectant management.

RESULTS

Ninety women with PAS were included. The incidence of PAS was 0.064 %. Mean gestational age (GA) at diagnosis was 26.4 weeks. Elective and emergency deliveries were performed at 36.7 and 32.4 weeks respectively (p = <0.0001). Caesarean hysterectomy, Caesarean section with placenta removal and expectant management (EM) were performed in 51(56.7 %),16(17.8 %) and 23(25.6 %) women respectively. The mean blood loss (MBL) and surgical time for EM were significantly lower than those for caesarean hysterectomy 0.52 L vs 3.17 L (p < 0.0001) and 70.8 min vs 171.6 min (p < 0.0001). The advantage of lower blood loss with expectant management persisted even after blood loss at delayed hysterectomy was considered (1284.09 mL vs 3168.72 mL (p-value <0.0001)). Uterine preservation with EM was successful in 61 % (14/23) women. Although nine women (39 %) in this group needed hysterectomy most complications were minor and presented within three months. The mean follow up overall was 13 months.

CONCLUSION

Traditionally caesarean hysterectomy has been the main surgical approach for PAS. Our study consolidates existing evidence for expectant management being an option for a select group of patients to avoid complications associated with hysterectomy and allow uterine preservation.

Perioperative patient blood management during parallel transverse uterine incision cesarean section in patient with pernicious placenta previa: A retrospective cohort analysis

Pernicious placenta previa (PPP) is the main cause of severe obstetric postpartum hemorrhage and hysterectomy and often requires donor blood transfusion. Prophylactic internal iliac artery (IIA) balloon occlusion (BO) combined with cell salvage is increasingly being deployed in parallel transverse uterine incision (PTUI) cesarean section (CS). The aim of this study was to explore the differences in blood management in PTUI CS with or without prophylactic IIA BO and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of cell salvage to reduce the need for donor blood transfusion during PTUI CS.This retrospective study included all women who were diagnosed with PPP and PA and underwent PTUI CS from October 1, 2016, to October 31, 2018. Sixty-four patients were included: 34 underwent prophylactic IIA BO (IIA group), whereas 30 were treated without prophylactic IIA BO (control group). The primary outcome was a composite measure of perioperative blood management outcomes, including the estimated blood loss (EBL), donor blood transfusion, salvaged blood returned, fresh frozen plasma (FFP), pre- and postoperative serum hemoglobin and hematocrit. In addition, the baseline conditions of mother and neonates were compared.EBL was significantly higher in the IIA group compared to the control group (2883.5 mL in the IIA group vs 1868.7 mL in the control group, P = .001). Overall, the donor blood transfusion rate was 23.5% (8/34), averaging 4.2 U, in the IIA group versus 30% (9/30), averaging 3.4 U, in the control group, which were not significantly different. The FFP transfusion rate was 47%, averaging 765.6 mL, in the IIA group versus 20%, averaging 816.7 mL, in the control group. In the IIA group, 97.1% used cell savage and had salvaged blood returned, averaging 954.9 mL. In the control group, 90% had salvaged blood returned, averaging 617.9 mL. No cases of amniotic fluid embolism were observed with leukocyte depletion filters.Prophylactic IIA BO during PTUI CS in women with PPP and PA does not lead to a statistically significant reduction in EBL. Cell salvage was associated with a reduction in the rate of donor blood transfusion during PTUI CS.

Conservative approach: Intentional retention of the placenta

Intentional retention of the placenta (IRP), or 'conservative' treatment or management, entails opening the uterus, delivering the baby, tying and cutting the umbilical cord at its placental insertion site, leaving the placenta in the uterus and waiting for its complete spontaneous resorption in women with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS). The uterine preservation rate with this approach is about 78%, and severe maternal morbidity about 6%; these rates are respectively lower and higher in subgroups of women with placenta percreta. IRP has become a recommended option for women with PAS reluctant to undergo caesarean-hysterectomy and wanting to preserve their fertility, after appropriate information about the uterine preservation rate, but also the risk of a subsequent emergency hysterectomy due to unpredictable haemorrhage and/or infection, and the need for follow-up with regular visits for several months. Some authorities also recommend IRP when hysterectomy is at very high risk of surgical complications.