The role of transvaginal ultrasound in the assessment of pregnancy implantation at the old incision

Article by Master, Doctor Mai Vien Phuong - Gastrointestinal endoscopist - Department of Medical Examination & Internal Medicine - Vinmec Central Park International General Hospital.

Fetal implantation at the old incision is a dangerous pregnancy complication. If not detected and treated promptly, it can be life-threatening. Transvaginal ultrasound is a simple, safe, non-invasive imaging method that is mainly used in the diagnosis of this pregnancy complication.

Transvaginal ultrasound is an ultrasound technique that uses a 7.5-10 MHz transducer inserted into the vagina to detect lesions of the uterus and appendages. Before transvaginal ultrasound, most patients need to have a clear bladder to empty their bladder.

Normally, after being fertilized, the egg will attach to the endometrium at the fundus of the uterus, where there is a thick layer of uterine muscle, suitable for implantation and fetal growth.
Fetal implantation at the old incision is a condition in which the fetus implants in the wrong position, but instead at the isthmus of the uterus, where there is a scar from the previous cesarean section. During the first cesarean section, the old cesarean scar will make the uterine muscle in that position unable to stretch and soften. The development of the gestational sac at the damaged muscle site, the tight area will lead to many of the most dangerous complications, such as abnormal fetal growth, high risk of miscarriage, even uterine rupture, which is a direct threat. to the life of the pregnant woman.

Transvaginal ultrasound is a simple, safe, non-invasive imaging method, mainly used in diagnosing signs of pregnancy implantation on old incisions.
Ultrasound helps diagnose pregnancy at the incision site or not. The gestational sac implanted at the old incision site will show the image of the gestational sac, inside containing the embryo, the fetal heart, with the muscular layer of the uterus separating the gestational sac and the bladder, with blood vessels around the gestational sac.
In addition to the role of assessing pregnancy implantation at the old incision or not, transducer ultrasound also supports:
Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy Differential diagnosis with cases of ectopic pregnancy in other locations Different from other diseases in the pelvic area such as infection, tumor...

Computerized tomography, drug-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging can be selected to diagnose pregnancy implantation at the old incision in cases where ultrasound is not clearly defined. In addition, doctors also combine clinical examination, blood tests, especially HCG test to diagnose pregnancy at the old incision or not.
In summary, implantation at the old incision site is a dangerous pregnancy complication. If not detected and treated promptly, it can cause bleeding, uterine rupture, hysterectomy, and even endanger the patient's life.
In order to give mothers a healthy pregnancy as well as minimize possible complications during pregnancy. Vinmec International General Hospital has developed a package maternity service as a solution to help pregnant women feel secure because of the companionship of the medical team during pregnancy. When choosing Maternity Package, pregnant women can:
The pregnancy process is monitored by a team of qualified doctors Regular check-ups, early detection of abnormal problems Maternity package helps to facilitate the process of pregnancy. birthing process Newborns receive comprehensive care.