The value of magnetic resonance imaging in the diagnosis and management of extra-uterine abdominal pregnancy

Abstract

Aim: To determine the value of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the detection of the location of the placenta and placental adherence in patients with extra-uterine or abdominal pregnancy.

Methods: A retrospective study of patients with a suspected diagnosis of extra-uterine pregnancy was performed over a 12-month period. MRI images on hard and soft copy were reviewed by two radiologists blinded to the clinical and operative findings.

Results: Nine patients with 10 foetuses were imaged. Nine foetuses were in an extra-uterine position; three were delivered dead, one from intrauterine growth retardation and one from a fatal congenital anomaly. The placenta was located correctly in all nine patients with placental adherence demonstrated in four patients. The placenta was safely delivered in six patients and left in situ in three in which there was MRI evidence of placental adherence.

Conclusions: MRI is valuable in accurately demonstrating the location of the placenta within the abdomen and the presence of placental adherence, which directly affects the decision whether to remove or leave the placenta in situ.