title: Sonographically detected caesarean section scar defects and menstrual irregularity.
abstract: The purpose of this study was to estimate the frequency of post-caesarean section scar defects (PCSD) on transvaginal ultrasound and to correlate these with the presence of abnormal menstrual bleeding. We reviewed the pelvic ultrasound images of 318 women referred for a gynaecological scan in a private women's ultrasound clinic. The incidence of defects at the expected location of a caesarean scar was evaluated and then correlated with patient responses to a questionnaire on abnormal menstrual bleeding. Of the 318 patients, 71 had a history of caesarean section and technically adequate pelvic ultrasound images. Fluid-filled defects in the hysterotomy incision were noted in 29 (40%). The presence of a PCSD was significantly associated with patients reporting prolonged periods or post-menstrual spotting. The larger the defect, the higher was the incidence of abnormal vaginal bleeding.
authors.affiliation: Womens' Children's and Family Health, Northern Beaches Health Service, Manly Hospital, Manly NSW 2095, Australia. tuppal@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au
authors.forename: T
authors.initials: T
authors.lastname: Uppal
authors.forename: V
authors.initials: V
authors.lastname: Lanzarone
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Mongelli
mesh_terms: D000328:Adult; D002585:Cesarean Section / Q000009:adverse effects*; D002921:Cicatrix / Q000150:complications* / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008599:Menstruation Disturbances / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D008875:Middle Aged; D011446:Prospective Studies; D014463:Ultrasonography; D014591:Uterine Diseases / Q000000981:diagnostic imaging / Q000209:etiology*; D055815:Young Adult