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Magnetic resonance imaging to avoid laparotomy in pregnancy
M Curtis1, M P Hopkins, T Zarlingo
1Departments of Obstetrics, Gynecology, Northeastern Ohio Universities College of Medicine, Akron General Medical Center.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|November 1, 1993
Summary
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) helps diagnose pelvic masses in pregnancy, potentially avoiding surgery. This imaging technique identified benign conditions, allowing pregnant patients to avoid laparotomy and its risks.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Radiology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Pelvic masses during pregnancy require accurate diagnosis to differentiate benign from malignant conditions.
- Surgical intervention (laparotomy) in pregnant patients carries significant risks to both mother and fetus.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in characterizing adnexal masses during pregnancy.
- To determine if MRI findings can reliably predict benign masses and obviate the need for exploratory laparotomy.
Main Methods:
- A prospective study involving five pregnant women with suspected adnexal masses (likely leiomyomas).
- All participants underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for detailed evaluation of the pelvic masses.
Main Results:
- MRI accurately identified benign pelvic masses in four patients with leiomyoma and one with a benign cystic teratoma.
- All five patients successfully avoided laparotomy due to the high confidence in the MRI-based diagnosis of a benign process.
- Two pregnancies were significantly affected: one with fetal growth retardation and another with outlet obstruction requiring cesarean delivery.
- Four patients ultimately underwent cesarean delivery.
Conclusions:
- Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a valuable tool for the differential diagnosis of adnexal masses in pregnant patients.
- Utilizing MRI can help pregnant individuals avoid unnecessary surgical procedures like laparotomy, thereby reducing associated risks.