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Identifying sonographic markers for placenta accreta in the first trimester
Jerasimos Ballas1, Dolores Pretorius, Andrew D Hull
1Department of Reproductive Medicine, Division of Perinatology, University of California, San Diego, 200 W Arbor Dr, 8433, San Diego, CA 92103, USA. jerryballas@gmail.com
Summary
Early ultrasound signs of placenta accreta may be detected in the first trimester. This retrospective study analyzed 10 cases, identifying key sonographic markers suggesting potential early diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Diagnostic Imaging
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
Background:
- Placenta accreta poses significant risks during pregnancy.
- Early detection of placenta accreta is crucial for improved maternal outcomes.
- Current diagnostic methods often identify placenta accreta later in gestation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence of sonographic markers for placenta accreta in the first trimester.
- To determine if early ultrasound findings can predict placenta accreta.
- To correlate first-trimester sonographic features with confirmed cases of placenta accreta.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 10 pathologically proven cases of placenta accreta.
- Review of first-trimester ultrasound images (gestational age 8 weeks 4 days to 14 weeks 2 days).
- Identification and documentation of specific sonographic findings.
Main Results:
- Anechoic placental areas were observed in 90% of cases.
- Low implantation of the gestational sac was noted in 90% of cases.
- Irregular placental-myometrial interface (90%) and placenta previa (70%) were also significant findings.
- A history of prior cesarean delivery (90%) or other uterine surgeries was common.
Conclusions:
- Sonographic markers suggestive of placenta accreta may be identifiable as early as the first trimester.
- These early findings could potentially aid in earlier diagnosis and management planning.
- Further prospective studies are warranted to validate these initial observations.
