Abdominal pregnancy. Report of 12 cases

We have reviewed the records of 12 patients with abdominal pregnancy accumulated over a 15-year period (1951-1965). The 2 most recent ones were managed by the authors. Every attempt has been made to eliminate advanced tubal, ovarian, and intraligamentus pregnancies. The gravity of this condition is again emphasized. Prompt termination of pregnancy is the proper course, but we recognize possible exceptions to this general principle. Most often, the placenta should be left in place because of the inability of the obstetrician to ligate its blood supply. However, when this can beyond all doubt be safely accomplished, the placenta should be removed. Convalescence is stormy and morbidity higher when the placenta is not removed.