Intraoperative Ultrasound in the Management of Placenta Accreta Spectrum: Waste of Time or Valuable Step

J Ultrasound Med. 2023 Apr;42(4):931-933. doi: 10.1002/jum.16090. Epub 2022 Aug 28.

Abstract

Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is increasing worldwide paralleling the rising surge of the cesarean section rate. It is well known that sonographic screening for PAS in the second trimester in high-risk patients can predict and reduce major intraoperative hemorrhage during a cesarean hysterectomy. We report the importance of intraoperative ultrasound in the management PAS disorders. It has a crucial role in the reassessment of the placenta location and invasion, reconsidering the cesarean hysterectomy, localization of the hysterotomy, the bladder dissection, and in the conservative treatment. Workshops and hands-on training in intraoperative ultrasound among surgeons must be supported.

Keywords: intraoperative ultrasound; placenta accreta spectrum; surgery.

MeSH terms

  • Cesarean Section
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Placenta
  • Placenta Accreta* / diagnostic imaging
  • Placenta Accreta* / surgery
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Second
  • Retrospective Studies
  • Ultrasonography