Traumatic Abruptio Placenta Scale (TAPS): a proposed grading system of computed tomography evaluation of placental abruption in the trauma patient.

ABSTRACT

Placental abruption (PA) is one of the worst possible manifestations of injury in the pregnant trauma patient with ultrasound as the current initial imaging examination of choice, despite its known limitations in placental evaluation. Pregnant patients who undergo computed tomography (CT) for evaluation of potential maternal injuries provide an additional source of imaging for placental evaluation; however, few studies have delineated normal and abnormal placental appearance, therefore resulting in insufficient placental assessments on pregnant trauma patients. Retrospective literature analysis was performed to provide a structured descriptive classification of normal and abnormal placental appearance on CT. By offering a structured system of placental appearance, radiologists will become more familiar with normal variations of the placenta as well as be able to recognize areas of abnormality, furthermore assisting in clinical management efficiency.