Maternal outcome after conservative management of placenta percreta at caesarean section: a report of three cases and a review of the literature

Abstract

Retaining the placenta in situ at caesarean section for placenta percreta and awaiting placental reabsorption is widely practiced; however, there is limited evidence on the efficacy and complications of this strategy. We present three cases of placenta percreta managed conservatively and note that all three women experienced significant complications. A review of the literature showed that despite initial conservative management, 40% of women subsequently require emergency hysterectomy and 42% will experience major morbidity.

Keywords: caesarean section; percreta.