Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 17, 2026
08:49
External Cephalic Version: Is it an Effective and Safe Procedure?
Published on: June 6, 2020
Retained fetal parts after elective second-trimester dilation and evacuation
Vanessa M Givens1, Gary H Lipscomb
1Division of Gynecologic Specialties, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tennessee 38163, USA. vgivens@utmem.edu
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|February 3, 2007
Summary
Fetal extrusion into the abdomen during second-trimester pregnancy termination is rare. Prompt imaging is crucial if fetal parts are not fully removed to prevent complications.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Medicine
- Surgical Complications
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Second-trimester pregnancy termination procedures carry risks.
- Extrusion of fetal parts into the maternal abdomen is an infrequent complication.
Observation:
- A case is presented where fetal parts extruded into the broad ligament during a second-trimester termination.
- This extrusion remained undetected for 10 days post-procedure.
Findings:
- Delayed diagnosis of fetal extrusion can occur.
- Incomplete fetal evacuation necessitates thorough imaging.
Implications:
- Ultrasonography and computerized tomography are vital for detecting retained fetal parts.
- Meticulous post-procedural evaluation is essential in second-trimester pregnancy terminations to ensure complete fetal evacuation and prevent complications.
