1 Unit of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Department of Human Pathology of Adults and Developmental Age, “G. Martino” University Hospital, 98122 Messina, Italy
2 Department of General Surgery and Medical Surgical Specialties, University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) is an uncommon yet clinically important obstetric
condition in which an embryo implants into the myometrial defect left by a
previous cesarean section [1]. Although its exact prevalence is challenging to
ascertain, estimates suggest that it is a rare condition. However, the global
increase in abdominal surgical procedures has led to a higher incidence of
ectopic pregnancies, underscoring the importance of awareness and early diagnosis
within the medical community [2]. The implications of CSP are severe, as delayed
or misdiagnosis can precipitate life-threatening complications such as uterine
rupture and severe hemorrhage. These adverse outcomes may necessitate emergency
interventions, including hysterectomy, which can have profound impacts on a
woman’s reproductive future and overall health [3]. Diagnosis of CSP is primarily
made through transvaginal ultrasonography, with the hallmark finding being a
gestational sac embedded in the anterior uterine wall at the site of the cesarean
scar. Doppler ultrasonography can further assist in the diagnosis by showing
peritrophoblastic vascular flow, which is characteristic of CSP. Magnetic
resonance imaging may be used as an adjunct in difficult cases or when
differentiation from other types of ectopic pregnancies is necessary [3]. The
literature describes a wide array of treatments for addressing CSP, encompassing
medical, radiological, and surgical methods that vary from minimally invasive
approaches to more extensive interventions [4, 5]. These diverse options
underscore the complexity of CSP and the need for individualized treatment plans
that consider the specific circumstances and preferences of each patient. In
recent years, hysteroscopy has undergone remarkable advancements, finding its
utility expanded across a wide array of gynecologic conditions [6, 7]. Once a
procedure limited by the size of the equipment and the scope of its applications,
modern hysteroscopy now offers a less invasive, highly precise method for
diagnosing and treating intrauterine conditions, including CSP. Innovations in
hysteroscopic technology, such as the development of smaller, more flexible
scopes and the introduction of better visualization and operative techniques,
have broadened its applicability [8]. The evolution of hysteroscopic management
for CSP marks a significant advancement, offering a minimally invasive and
fertility-preserving alternative, particularly for cases diagnosed early or when
the pregnancy is not viable [9]. Indications for hysteroscopic treatment include
the desire to preserve fertility and early gestational age at diagnosis. This
approach is also considered when the patient wishes to avoid major surgery or
when medical management is contraindicated or has failed [10]. The development of
smaller scopes, as well as the use of distention media such as 5% glucose, has
meant that even scar pregnancies situated deep in the uterine wall are accessible
to hysteroscopic resection. This means that it is possible to completely resect
the gestational tissue with minimal risk of uterine rupture. Moreover, this
procedure can preserve the myometrium, which is essential for future fertility,
and thus has an advantage over conservative medical and surgical management that
can compromise myometrial integrity. It allows resection of the scar defect
itself, thus lessening the risk of recurrence in subsequent pregnancies.
Additionally, the adjunctive use of pre-operative vasopressin injections into the
cervix could potentially control bleeding, thereby enhancing the safety and
efficacy of hysteroscopic procedures. This approach warrants study to ascertain
its viability and optimize outcomes in these complex cases [11]. Despite these
developments, these techniques are currently limited to cases with low
vascularity and minimal myometrial involvement [12]. There are no large case
series available to clarify the actual safety, efficacy, and best methods for the
treatment of this condition. While hysteroscopic treatment is generally safe,
potential complications include uterine perforation, hemorrhage, and infection
[13]. Patients typically recover quickly from the hysteroscopic procedure, with
most being discharged from the hospital on the same day. Follow-up care includes
serial beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (
FAG: manuscript writing and supervision. SC: data collection. GGI: manuscript writing/editing. All authors read and approved the final manuscript.
Not applicable.
We would like to express our gratitude to all those who helped us during the writing of this manuscript.
This research received no external funding.
The authors declare no conflict of interest. Ferdinando Antonio Gulino is serving as one of the Editorial Board members of this journal. Stefano Cianci is serving as one of the Editorial Board members/Guest editors of this journal. We declare that Ferdinando Antonio Gulino and Stefano Cianci had no involvement in the peer review of this article and has no access to information regarding its peer review. Full responsibility for the editorial process for this article was delegated to Michael H. Dahan.
References
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