Imaging of postpartum complications: a multimodality review

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this article is to review common and uncommon complications of postpartum and posttermination patients and their imaging findings. A variety of imaging modalities, including ultrasound, CT, MRI, and angiography, will be presented. Knowledge of the spectrum of normal and abnormal imaging findings as well as recognition of the common and uncommon complications are essential for accurate diagnosis.

Conclusion: Obstetric complications are a common source of morbidity and mortality for women of reproductive age. Imaging, particularly with ultrasound, is often supplementary to the clinical history and examination in assessing and treating women during the postpartum period. Radiologists should be familiar with the common abnormalities that present in this period and their imaging findings, as well as the wide range of normal appearances the postpartum uterus can assume.