Introduction: A cesarean section is the most frequently performed surgery in modern obstetrics. In case of an incorrect wound healing process there is a risk of a persistent uterine wall defect. Nowadays, due to the high frequency of cesarean sections, obstetricians have to deal with the threat of uterine rupture due to pathological wound healing. It has been proven that isthmocele can cause abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB), pelvic pain (PP), and secondary infertility (SI), and can be a place of improper pregnancy placement.
Aim: This article presents our experience with isthmocele treatment. We describe our diagnostic process scheme, method of corrective surgery and main therapeutic outcomes.
Material and methods: In this manuscript we present a single center's experience in isthmocele therapy. We have operated on 16 patients who suffered from abnormal uterine bleeding, pain disorders or secondary infertility possibly due to a cesarean scar defect.
Results: The results obtained in our center are promising. In 9 of 11 (81.8%) women with abnormal bleeding we obtained complete resolution of symptoms. We had slightly worse results in the case of pelvic pain. In 4 (66.6%) of 6 patients the pain resolved completely. We have obtained 7 pregnancies in 11 (63.6%) patients operated on due to secondary infertility.
Conclusions: In our opinion, laparoscopic treatment seems to be currently one of the most effective methods in isthmocele therapy. Further investigation is necessary to determine the indications for surgery, suitable treatment strategies and appropriate care.
Keywords: cesarean scar defect; cesarean section; isthmocele; laparoscopy.