How to perform standardized sonographic examination of Cesarean scar pregnancy in the first trimester.

Early diagnosis and appropriate management of Cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) are crucial to prevent severe complications, such as uterine rupture, severe hemorrhage and placenta accreta spectrum disorders. In this article, we provide a step-by-step tutorial for the standardized sonographic evaluation of CSP in the first trimester. Practical steps for performing a standardized transvaginal ultrasound examination to diagnose CSP are outlined, focusing on criteria and techniques essential for accurate identification and classification. Key sonographic markers, including gestational sac location, cardiac activity, placental implantation and myometrial thickness, are detailed. The evaluation process is presented according to assessment of the uterine scar, differential diagnosis, detailed CSP evaluation and CSP classification. This step-by-step tutorial emphasizes the importance of scanning in two planes (sagittal and transverse), utilizing color or power Doppler and differentiating CSP from other low-lying pregnancies. The CSP classification is described in detail and is based on the location of the largest part of the gestational sac relative to the uterine cavity and serosal lines. This descriptive classification is recommended for clinical use to stimulate uniform description and evaluation. Such a standardized sonographic evaluation of CSP in the first trimester is essential for early diagnosis and management, helping to prevent life-threatening complications and to preserve fertility. Training sonographers in detailed evaluation techniques and promoting awareness of CSP are critical. The structured approach to CSP diagnosis presented herein is supported by a free e-learning course available online. © 2024 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

A Prediction Model for the Efficacy of Transvaginal Repair in Patients With Cesarean Scar Defect: An Evidence-Based Proposal for Patient Selection.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To establish a prediction model to help doctors determine which patients with cesarean scar defect are more suitable for transvaginal repair. DESIGN: Retrospective analysis. SETTING: Xinhua Hospital and Shanghai First Maternity & Infant Hospital between June 2014 and May 2021. PATIENTS: 1015 women who underwent transvaginal repair of cesarean scar defect (CSD). INTERVENTIONS: All enrolled patients underwent CSD repair performed by the same gynecologist and his team. And followed up a clinic visit at 6 months to record their menstruation and measure multiple parameters of the CSD by Magnetic Resonance Imaging. MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES: CSD patients are categorized as optimal healing group when the menstruation duration is no more than 7 days, meanwhile the thickness of residual myometrium is no less than 5.39 mm after vaginal repair. The final nomogram is constructed to predict surgical outcomes based on preoperative variables. RESULTS: The key factors that determine optimal healing are the timing of cesarean section (elective or emergency), menstrual cycle, CSD length, width, depth, and the thickness of the lower uterine segment. With the prediction model, scores are given to each parameter according to the statistics. Total scores range from 0 to 25 points, with a cutoff point of 16.5. When a score is greater than 16.5, the transvaginal repair can achieve optimal healing. Uterine position (anteflexion or retroflexion) and preoperative thickness of residual myometrium are the key factors affecting postoperative thickness of residual myometrium. The width of the CSD and the thickness of the lower uterine segment are the key factors affecting abnormal uterine bleeding symptoms (p < 0.01). CONCLUSIONS: For the first time, we established a prediction model system that may predict the repair effect of CSD and can potentially be useful in future clinical trials to determine which patients are more suitable for surgery or other treatment options.

Effectiveness of an articulating laparoscopic needle holder for cesarean scar defect repair.

AIM: To evaluate the efficacy of an articulating laparoscopic needle holder in laparoscopic surgery for cesarean scar defect. METHODS: We performed a retrospective case-control study at the Shiga University of Medical Science. Patients who underwent laparoscopic uterine scar repair were divided into an articulating laparoscopic needle holder (ArtiSential®) group and a rigid needle holder (conventional) group to compare the suture and total operative times. Uterine myometrial suturing involves a double-layer interrupted suture, including a modified Gambee suture for the first layer. We measured the residual myometrial thickness using magnetic resonance imaging preoperatively and at 3 months postoperatively. RESULTS: Both groups comprised 10 patients each. The time per stitch for the first and second layers was significantly shorter in the ArtiSential group than in the conventional group (median 208 s vs. 403 s, p < 0.0001 and median 17 s vs. 29 s; p < 0.0001, respectively). The total operating time was significantly shorter in the ArtiSential group (mean 188 min vs. 240 min, p = 0.0015). The postoperative residual myometrial thickness (mean 9.1 mm in the ArtiSential group and 9.6 mm in the conventional group) was significantly higher than the preoperative residual myometrial thickness (mean 1.6 mm in the ArtiSential group and 1.6 mm in the conventional group) (p < 0.0001 in both groups). CONCLUSIONS: An articulating needle holder is useful in laparoscopic surgery for cesarean scar defect, especially when a modified Gambee suture is required.

The association of endometrial closure during cesarean section to the risk of developing uterine scar defect: a randomized control trial.

PURPOSE: The surgical technique for uterine closure following cesarean section influences the healing of the cesarean scar; however, there is still no consensus on the optimal technique regarding the closure of the endometrium layer. The aim of this study was to compare the effect of closure versus non-closure of the endometrium during cesarean section on the risk to develop uterine scar defect and associated symptoms. METHODS: A randomized prospective study was conducted of women undergoing first elective cesarean section at a single tertiary medical center. Exclusion criteria included previous uterine scar, preterm delivery and dysmorphic uterus. Women were randomized for endometrial layer closure versus non-closure. Six months following surgery, women were invited to the ambulatory gynecological clinic for follow-up visit. 2-D transvaginal ultrasound examination was performed to evaluate the cesarean scar characteristics. In addition, women were evaluated for symptoms that might be associated with uterine scar defect. Primary outcome was defined as the residual myometrial thickness (RMT) at the uterine cesarean scar. Data are presented as median and interquartile range. RESULTS: 130 women were recruited to the study, of them follow-up was achieved in 113 (86.9%). 61 (54%) vs. 52 (46%) of the women were included in the endometrial closure vs. non-closure groups, respectively. Groups were comparable for patient's demographic, clinical characteristics and follow-up time for postoperative evaluation. Median RMT was 5.3 (3.0-7.7) vs. 4.6 (3.0-6.5) mm for the endometrial closure and non-closure groups, respectively (p = 0.38). Substantially low RMT (< 2.5 mm) was measured in four (6.6%) women in the endometrial closure group and three (5.8%) of the women in the non-closure group (p = 0.86). All other uterine scar sonographic measurements, as well as dysmenorrhea, pelvic pain and intermenstrual bleeding rates were comparable between the groups. CONCLUSION: Closure versus non-closure of the endometrial layer during cesarean uterine incision repair has no significant difference in cesarean scar characteristics and symptom rates at 6 months follow-up.

Impact of cesarean scar defect on reproductive outcomes after assisted reproductive technology. / å‰–å®«äº§å­å®«ç˜¢ç—•ç¼ºæŸå¯¹é‡‡ç”¨è¾ åŠ©ç”Ÿæ®–æŠ€æœ¯å­•å¦‡å¦Šå¨ ç»“å±€çš„å½±å“åŠå¯¹ç­–.

In the last twenty years, the cesarean section rate has been rising in China, leading to an increased prevalence of cesarean scar defect (CSD) and secondary infertility. CSD decreases receptivity of endometrium, induces adenomyosis and endometriosis, disrupts uterine micro-environment and causes difficulties in embryo transplant operation as well as has further pregnancy complications. For women undergoing assisted reproductive technology (ART), CSD significantly reduces live birth rate, clinical pregnancy rate and embryo implantation rate. CSD can be effectively treated by hysteroscopic surgery, laparoscopic surgery and transvaginal surgery to increase the pregnancy rate. This article reviews the research progress on the impact of CSD on the reproductive outcomes of ART, the potential factors and related treatments, and provides a reference for the management of CSD patients undergoing ART.

Comparison of clinical effectiveness and subsequent fertility between hysteroscopic resection and vaginal repair in patients with cesarean scar defect: a prospective observational study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the clinical effectiveness and pregnancy rate after hysteroscopic resection (HR) and/or vaginal repair (VR) in patients with cesarean scar defect (CSD). METHODS: This prospective observational study enrolled 191 patients who received CSD surgery in the First affiliated hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between September 2019 to February 2022 (96 in HR and 95 in VR, respectively). Patient follow-up were performed three months after surgery in both groups by transvaginal ultrasound to confirm the presence of fluid in the niche, along with the resolution of prolonged menses at the same time. The primary outcome was the clinical effectiveness between HR and VR, identified by the resolution of prolonged menses. RESULTS: The rates of niche-fluid disappearance (70.1% vs 60.2%, P = 0.176) and prolonged menses resolution (74.8% vs 80.0%, P = 0.341) were comparable for HR and VR. A subgroup analysis for niche size revealed that HR provides patients with small niche a more favorable rate of menstrual resolution compared to VR (size of niche ≤ 15 mm2, aOR = 3.423, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.073-10.918), but patients with large niche experience a lower rate of resolution compared to VR (size of niche > 25 mm2, aOR = 0.286, 95% CI 0.087- 0.938). During follow-up, 41 patients who wanted to conceive became pregnant. Kaplan-Meier estimates of the cumulative probability of pregnancy at 12 months and 24 months were 47.1% (95% CI: 34.5%, 58.8%) and 63.8% (95% CI: 52.5%, 72.9%), respectively. The median pregnancy time was 22 months (95% CI: 14.2, 29.8) after VR and 12 months (95% CI: 8.3, 15.7, Gehan-Breslow-Wilcoxon P = 0.021) after HR. Among patients with subsequent infertility, 31.6% achieved pregnancy by unassisted mode and 29.8% by IVF/ICSI. Moreover, among patients with previously failed IVF/ICSI treatment, 60% (12/20) obtained pregnancy, including 71.4% (10/14) after HR and 33.3% (2/6) after VR. CONCLUSIONS: Hysteroscopic resection is as effective as vaginal repair at relieving symptoms of CSD-associated prolonged menses. Hysteroscopic resection is the modality of choice with an improvement in prolonged menses for small niche, while vaginal might be considered for a large niche. Furthermore, surgical intervention could improve the clinical pregnancy rate of CSD patients. All of these provide evidence for the individualized management of CSD.

Hysteroscopic management of uterine diverticulum after myomectomy: a case report.

BACKGROUND: A uterine diverticulum is defined as the presence of a niche within the inner contour of the uterine myometrial wall. Although secondary uterine diverticula can occur after hysterotomy such as cesarean section, reports of diverticula after myomectomy are extremely rare. CASE PRESENTATION: A 45-year-old nulliparous woman undergoing infertility treatment was referred to our hospital because of abnormal postmenstrual bleeding after myomectomy. Transvaginal sonography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a diverticulum in the isthmus. Fat-saturated T1 image showed a blood reservoir in the diverticulum. Hysteroscopic surgery was performed to remove the lowed edge of the defect and coagulate the hypervascularized area. Two months after surgery, the abnormal postmenstrual bleeding and chronic endometritis improved. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSIONS: This report highlights the similarities of the patient's diverticulum to cesarean scar defects in terms of symptoms and pathophysiology. First, this patient developed a diverticulum with hypervascularity after myomectomy and persistent abnormal bleeding. Second, after hysteroscopic surgery, the symptoms of irregular bleeding disappeared. Third, endometrial glands were identified within the resected scar tissue. Fourth, preoperatively identified CD138-positive cells in endometrial tissue spontaneously disappeared after hysteroscopic resection. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of symptomatic improvement following hysteroscopic surgery in a patient with an iatrogenic uterine diverticulum with persistent irregular bleeding after myomectomy.

A transvaginal ultrasound-based diagnostic calculator for uterus post-cesarean scar defect.

BACKGROUND: A cesarean scar defect (CSD) is incomplete healing of the myometrium at the site of a prior cesarean section (CS), complicating more than half of all cesarean sections. While transvaginal ultrasound (TVU) is the most common modality for diagnosing this defect, hysteroscopy remains the gold standard. We aimed to develop an efficient diagnostic tool for CSD among women with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) by integrating TVU findings and participants' demographic features. METHODS: A single-center cross-sectional study was conducted on 100 premenopausal and non-pregnant women with a history of CS complaining of AUB without a known systemic or structural etiology. Each participant underwent a hysteroscopy followed by a TVU the next day. The defect dimensions in TVU, patients' age, and the number of previous CSs were integrated into a binary logistic regression model to evaluate their predictive ability for a hysteroscopy-confirmed CSD. RESULTS: Hysteroscopy identified 74 (74%) participants with CSD. The variables age, the number of CSs, defect length, and defect width significantly contributed to the logistic regression model to diagnose CSD with odds ratios of 9.7, 0.7, 2.6, and 1.7, respectively. The developed model exhibited accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 88.00%, 91.89%, and 76.92%, respectively. The area under the receiver operating curve was 0.955 (P-value < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Among non-pregnant women suspected of CSD due to AUB, looking at age, the number of previous CSs, and TVU-based defect width and length can efficiently rule CSD out.

Prevalence, definition, and etiology of cesarean scar defect and treatment of cesarean scar disorder: A narrative review.

Background: Cesarean scar defects (CSD) are caused by cesarean sections and cause various symptoms. Although there has been no previous consensus on the name of this condition for a long time, it has been named cesarean scar disorder (CSDi). Methods: This review summarizes the definition, prevalence, and etiology of CSD, as well as the pathophysiology and treatment of CSDi. We focused on surgical therapy and examined the effects and procedures of laparoscopy, hysteroscopy, and transvaginal surgery. Main findings: The definition of CSD was proposed as an anechoic lesion with a depth of at least 2 mm because of the varied prevalence, owing to the lack of consensus. CSD incidence depends on the number of times, procedure, and situation of cesarean sections. Histopathological findings in CSD are fibrosis and adenomyosis, and chronic inflammation in the uterine and pelvic cavities decreases fertility in women with CSDi. Although the surgical procedures are not standardized, laparoscopic, hysteroscopic, and transvaginal surgeries are effective. Conclusion: The cause and pathology of CSDi are becoming clear. However, there is variability in the prevalence and treatment strategies. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct further studies using the same definitions.

Value and influencing factors of preoperative MRI evaluation for previous cesarean scar defect associated abnormal uterine bleeding in patients undergoing laparoscopic surgery. / æœ¯å‰ç£å ±æŒ¯è¯„ä»·è ¹è ”é•œæ‰‹æœ¯æ²»ç–—å‰–å®«äº§åˆ‡å£ç˜¢ç—•ç¼ºé™·ç›¸å ³å¼‚å¸¸å­å®«å‡ºè¡€çš„ä»·å€¼åŠå½±å“å› ç´ ï¼ˆè‹±æ–‡ï¼‰.

OBJECTIVES: As the cesarean section rate increases year by year, the treatment of previous cesarean scar defects (PCSD) poses a significant challenge. This study aims to evaluate the clinical value of preoperative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology and analyze relevant influencing factors for patients with abnormal uterine bleeding (AUB) associated with cesarean scar defects who underwent laparoscopic surgery. METHODS: A retrospective cohort analysis was performed on women who underwent laparoscopic surgery for PCSD-related AUB at the Department of Gynecology, the Third Xiangya Hospital of Central South University from 2018 to 2022. A total of 57 patients who underwent laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of AUB associated with PCSD were divided into 2 groups based on their postoperative clinical cure status: The clinically-cured group (n=28, 49.1%) and the non-clinically-cured group (n=29, 50.9%). After a postoperative follow-up period of 3 months for all participants, logistic regression analysis was conducted to explore the correlation between the clinical cure rate of AUB associated with cesarean scar defects treated by laparoscopic surgery and various factors. These factors included patient age, clinical symptoms, obstetric history, history of cesarean section, basic clinical information, preoperative MRI parameters, and postoperative menstrual conditions. RESULTS: There were no significant differences in many aspects, including the patient's age at the time of previous cesarean section, number of pregnancy, time since the previous cesarean section, the uterus position assessed by preoperative T2 signal MRI, defect length, defect width, residual muscle layer thickness, adjacent uterine muscle layer thickness, and distance from the defect to the external cervical os between the 2 groups (all P>0.05). However, the time of onset of AUB symptoms (P=0.036, OR=1.019, 95% CI 1.002 to 1.038) and the depth of the defect on the preoperative MRI (P=0.010, OR=5.793, 95% CI 1.635 to 25.210) were identified as risk factors affecting the clinical cure rate. CONCLUSIONS: The time of onset of AUB symptoms and the depth of the defect on preoperative MRI are risk factors that influence the clinical cure rate of laparoscopic surgery for the treatment of AUB associated with PCSD, which could be helpful for evaluating the prognosis of disease.

A case report of an endometriosis cyst at cesarean scar defect and review of literature.

BACKGROUND: Cesarean scar defect (CSD) presents as a cystic defect that connects the uterine cavity at the site of the previous cesarean section (CS). Endometriosis refers to the discovery of endometrial glands and stroma outside the uterine cavity. Cases of endometriosis cysts at CSD have not been reported. CASE PRESENTATION: In this article, we will present a patient with an endometriosis cyst at CSD with symptoms of a prolonged menstrual cycle, periods without cyclic abdominal pain, and a history of cesarean delivery. The gynecologic ultrasound showed a CSD and a mixed mass in the right front of the uterus. After about 1 month, the tumor grew from a diameter of 4.75 cm to 8.06 × 6.23 × 3.66 cm. The patient eventually had an operation, which revealed a mass protruding from the incision in the anterior uterine wall, which was attached to the anterior uterine wall by a thin tip with a smooth surface. Intraoperative rapid cytopathology suggested that endometrial glands were seen within the smooth muscle tissue, similar to endometriosis. Subsequently, the patient underwent resection of the endometriotic cyst. Final paraffin pathology showed smooth muscle with visible endometrial glands and old hemorrhage, and a one-year follow-up showed no recurrence of endometriosis cysts at CSD. CONCLUSIONS: Endometriosis cysts at CSD are very rare. The clinical symptoms may be less obvious, and the diagnosis relies mainly on the patient's previous surgical history and imaging. A finding of a pelvic mass in the location of the CSD, with or without symptoms of menstrual changes and intermittent abdominal pain, should be considered an endometriotic cyst at CSD. Surgical treatment is a good choice for this disease. Further studies are needed regarding the etiological mechanism of this case and why the mass enlarged rapidly in one mouth.

Adjunctive azithromycin prophylaxis protects women from uterine cesarean scar defect: A randomized controlled trial.

INTRODUCTION: Cesarean scar defect (CSD) is a long-term outcome of cesarean section (CS) and associated with numerous gynecological and obstetric problems. Previous studies indicate that infection may be a risk factor for CSD. Adjunctive azithromycin was shown to reduce the risk of postoperative infection in patients undergoing non-elective primary cesarean delivery in labor or after the rupture of membranes compared with standard antibiotic prophylaxis. This study investigated the protective effect of adjunctive azithromycin in combination with single-dose cephalosporin against CSD in women undergoing non-elective cesarean delivery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial was conducted in a University hospital in Shanghai, China. A total of 242 women who underwent their first non-elective CS were randomly assigned to receive 1500 mg cefuroxime sodium plus 500 mg intravenous azithromycin (n = 121; experimental group) or 1500 mg cefuroxime sodium plus a placebo (n = 121; placebo group). The primary outcome was CSD prevalence, as determined by transvaginal ultrasound and saline infusion sonohysterography within 6 months of delivery. Secondary outcomes were changes in infectious indicators (eg hypersensitive C-reactive protein and procalcitonin), postoperative morbidity, and use of postoperative antibiotics. We also examined the operative procedure, pathogenic microorganism cultures, and fetal outcomes. Outcomes were compared between groups with the chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, or Student's t test. RESULTS: Between May 2018 and May 2021, 121 women were randomized to each arm. Because the sonographic follow up was disrupted by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and strict management policies, we merged the follow-up time points (6 weeks and 6 months) into a single time period (6 weeks to 6 months); 104 and 108 women in the experimental and placebo groups, respectively, completed the first sonographic follow up. CSD was diagnosed by sonography in 34/104 (32.7%) and 50/108 (46.3%) patients in the experimental and placebo groups, respectively (relative risk 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.50-0.99; p = 0.043). Characteristics of CSD and short-term infection outcomes did not differ between groups. CONCLUSIONS: A single dose of intravenous 500 mg azithromycin adjunctive to single-dose cefuroxime prophylaxis significantly reduced the incidence of CSD in women undergoing non-elective CS.

The Impact of Uterine Incision Closure Techniques on Post-cesarean Delivery Niche Formation and Size: Sonohysterographic Examination of Nonpregnant Women.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the prevalence and size of residual niche in the nongravid uterus following Cesarean delivery (CD) with different hysterotomy closure techniques (HCTs). METHODS: Saline infusion sonohysterogram (SIS) was performed in women after one prior CD, documenting the presence or absence of a postoperative niche and measuring its depth, width, length, and residual myometrial thickness. Women were grouped by HCT: Technique A (endometrium-free) and Technique B (routine non-endometrium-free). The primary outcome was the prevalence of a clinically significant niche, defined as a depth of >2 mm. HCT groups were compared using χ2 , T-test (ANOVA), and analyzed using logistic regression and two-sided test (P < .05). RESULTS: Forty-five women had SIS performed, 25 and 20 via Technique A and B, respectively. Technique groups varied by average interval time from CD to SIS (13.6 versus 74.5 months, P = 0.006) but were otherwise similar. Twenty niches were diagnosed, 85% of which were clinically significant, including five following Technique A, nine following Technique B with double-layer closure, and three following Technique B with single-layer (P = .018). The average niche depth was 2.4 mm and 4.9 mm among the two-layer subgroups following Techniques A and B, respectively (P = .005). A clinically significant niche development was six times higher with Technique B when compared to Technique A (OR 6.0, 95% CI 1.6-22.6, P = .008); this significance persisted after controlling for SIS interval on multivariate analysis (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.1-18.3, P = .04). The average niche depth was 5.7 ± 2.9 mm following Technique B with single-layer. CONCLUSION: Hysterotomy closure techniques determine the prevalence of post-Cesarean delivery niche formation and size. Exclusion of the endometrium at uterine closure reduces the development of significant scar defects.

Variations in uterine closure technique: an institutional survey of obstetricians and implications for patient counseling and prevention of adverse sequelae.

OBJECTIVES: To assess the diversity of uterine closure techniques (UCTs) among providers in one institution and evaluate concurrent consideration of adverse outcomes for patient counseling, provisional care, and prevention. METHODS: Forty-four obstetricians at NYU Langone Health were emailed a survey of their uterine closure technique, patient counseling, and practice experience. Results were stratified by years of practice: ≤5, 5-20, and 20-40 years. RESULTS: Thirty-nine obstetricians (88.6%) completed the survey. Among those, a blunt uterine opening was preferred by 29 (74.4%), and a mid-lower segment location was favored by 34 (87.2%). At uterine closure, the endometrium was included by 20 (51.3%), with half a centimeter or more incorporated in the myometrial closure, whereas 15 (38.5%) did not factor in the endometrium's presence. Closure duration varied from 1 to 20 min, with 21 (53.9%) lasting 1-5 min and 12 (30.8%) lasting 5-10 min. All physicians were familiar with the potential post-cesarean complications and counseled their patients accordingly; 25 (64.1%) at the first post-op visit while 14 (35.9%) did so before the next conception. Practitioners with fewer years in practice endorsed the safety of up to five consecutive cesarean births, while those with more experience approved up to ten. Thirty-two obstetricians (82.1%) stated that the risk of abnormal placentation is exclusively associated with the number of cesarean sections, whereas five (12.8%) senior obstetricians asserted that individual surgical techniques are most impactful. CONCLUSIONS: The survey illustrates that various UCTs are performed irrespective of potential adverse sequelae and without consideration for subsequent patient counseling and care. Ongoing research must study the impact of UCT on scar healing to formulate preventive strategies for post-cesarean complications.

Pregnancy following cesarean scar defect (niche) repair: a cohort study.

PURPOSE: The aim of the study is to learn the obstetrical outcome of women after laparoscopic niche repair. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study including all women after laparoscopic niche repair done by a single high-skilled surgeon, from July 2014 to March 2019. Data were collected from women's medical records and a telephone interview was performed to assess further symptoms and attempts to conceive, including pregnancy outcomes. RESULTS: During the study period, 48 women underwent laparoscopic niche repair, of them complete follow-up was achieved for 37 (78.7%) women. The median residual myometrial thickness measured by ultrasound before the repair was 2.0 mm (IQR 1.4-2.5). Attempts to conceive were reported by 81% (n = 30) of the women, while 18 (60%) achieved pregnancy in median time of 6 month (IQR 5-12) post-niche repair. 14 (78%) of the women conceived spontaneously. No placental abnormalities were reported in any of the women. All gave birth by cesarean delivery at a median of 38.4 gestation week (IQR 37.0-39.5). No dehiscence or rupture was reported. CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy following niche repair can be achieved with low pregnancy complication rate and good pregnancy outcomes. Further studies need to be done to strengthen our findings.

Novel laparoscopic surgery for the repair of cesarean scar defect without processing scar resection.

BACKGROUND: Cesarean scar defect (CSD), especially CSD with residual myometrium less than 3 mm is reported to be the highest risk agent associated with uterine rupture for subsequent pregnancy. Currently, laparoscopic resection and suture was the mainstay therapy method for CSD with a residual myometrium less than 3 mm in women with a desire to conceive. Besides, the women have CSD related symptoms, especially postmenstrual bleeding, should be recommended for CSD treatment. This study is to investigate the efficiency of this novel laparoscopic surgery for the repair of cesarean scar defect (CSD) without scar resection for residual myometrium thickening. METHOD: This retrospective clinical study enrolled 76 women diagnosed with CSD who had a residual myometrium thickness less than 3 mm and also had a desire to conceive, had undergone laparoscopic surgery for the repair of CSD in the time period March 2016 to March 2018. Two study cohorts were created among the 76 patients: 40 patients had undergone the novel laparoscopic repair of CSD without processing scar resection (Group A), whereas 36 patients had undergone the traditional laparoscopic resection and suture of CSD (Group B). RESULTS: Residual myometrium thickening occurred among all the 76 patients and the average residual myometrium thickness was increased to almost 6 mm, presenting no between-group difference. In Group A, all the CSD-related postmenstrual bleeding was resolved or improved, but one patient in Group B has no obvious change to postmenstrual bleeding. After CSD repair, 20 patients got pregnant naturally in Group A, and there was no cesarean scar pregnancy and uterine rupture. While, there were 9 cases of natural pregnancy in Group B. No uterine rupture occurred among these 9 pregnant women of Group B, but 1 case of pregnancy was terminated due to cesarean scar pregnancy. CONCLUSION: Laparoscopic repair without processing scar resection seems to be a feasible, safe and simple operative approach for CSD treatment, which can thicken residual myometrium and improve postmenstrual bleeding.

Evaluation of uterine scar healing by transvaginal ultrasound in 607 nonpregnant women with a history of cesarean section.

BACKGROUND: Caesarean scar defect (CSD) seriously affects female reproductive health. In this study, we aim to evaluate uterine scar healing by transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) in nonpregnant women with cesarean section (CS) history and to build a predictive model for cesarean scar defects is very necessary. METHODS: A total of 607 nonpregnant women with previous CS who have transvaginal ultrasound measurements of the thickness of the lower uterine segment. The related clinical data were recorded and analyzed. RESULTS: All patients were divided into two groups according to their clinical symptoms: Group A (N = 405) who had no cesarean scar symptoms, and Group B (N = 141) who had cesarean scar symptoms. The difference in frequency of CS, uterine position, detection rate of CSD and the residual muscular layer (TRM) of the CSD were statistically significant between groups; the TRM measurements of the two groups were (mm) 5.39 ± 3.34 versus 3.22 ± 2.33, P < 0.05. All patients were divided into two groups according to whether they had CSDs: Group C (N = 337) who had no CSDs, Group D (N = 209) who had CSDs on ultrasound examination. The differences in frequency of CS, uterine position, TRM between groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05). In the model predicting CSDs by TRM with TVS, the area under the ROC curve was 0.771, the cut-off value was 4.15 mm. The sensitivity and specificity were 87.8% and 71.3%, respectively. CONCLUSIONS: Patients with no clinical symptoms had a mean TRM on transvaginal ultrasonography of 5.39 ± 3.34 mm, which could be used as a good reference to predict the recovery of patients with CSDs after repair surgery.

Reproductive Outcomes Following Surgical Management for Isthmoceles: A Systematic Review.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of surgical management for isthmoceles in patients presenting with secondary infertility. DATA SOURCES: A systematic search was performed in MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane Library databases from inception to May 2020. The search was limited to studies published in English. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: After the removal of duplicates, 3380 articles were screened for inclusion independently by 2 authors. These 2 authors assessed for studies which focused on women of reproductive age with a diagnosed isthmocele and secondary infertility who underwent any surgical intervention for defect repair with at least 1 of the goals being fertility restoration. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: A total of 13 studies, comprising of 1 randomized controlled trial, 6 prospective case series, and 6 retrospective case series describing 234 patients who underwent surgical management for an isthmocele and secondary infertility were included. The methodologic quality of the included studies was assessed independently by both reviewers. Next, the data extraction was performed independently and then compared to ensure no discrepancies. A total of 188 patients were treated by hysteroscopy, 36 by laparoscopy, 7 by laparotomy, and 3 through a vaginal approach. In total, 153 of the 234 patients (65.4%) achieved pregnancy across all studies within their respective study periods. Pregnancy rates in the randomized controlled trial were 21 of 28 (75%) for those treated by hysteroscopy compared with 9 of 28 (32%) for those untreated. Among the studies reporting pregnancy outcomes, 101 of 116 (87.1%) pregnancies resulted in a live birth. The incidence of adverse events was 2%, including the risk of reoperation. CONCLUSION: The results of this systematic review suggest that the surgical treatment of an isthmocele, particularly through hysteroscopy, in patients with residual myometrial thickness of at least 2.5 mm, may be effective in treating isthmocele-associated secondary infertility with a relatively low complication rate. Further high-quality studies are needed because of the small sample sizes and observational nature of most available data.

Demonstration of Isthmocele Surgical Repair.

STUDY OBJECTIVE: To describe the surgical treatment of a uterine isthmocele. DESIGN: Demonstration of the laparoscopic technique with narrated video footage. SETTING: Cesarean section rate has been increasing despite the World Health Organization's recommendation of a maximum 15%, with some countries reaching rates as high as 50%. The choice of delivery method is a complex topic based on physical and psychologic health, social and cultural context, and quality of maternity care. With the increasing number of cesarean sections, a new entity was recognized, the isthmocele [1]. A uterine isthmocele is a dilatation of the uterine cesarean scar and functions as a reservoir collecting blood during menstruation. Isthmocele prevalence ranges from 19% to 84%[2]. The most frequent complaint relates to intermittent postmenstrual bleeding (30%). Isthmocele can be a cause of infertility and pelvic pain [3]. Interstitial pregnancy is a known complication with a mortality rate up to 2.5%. The diagnosis can be made by transvaginal ultrasound and/or magnetic resonance imaging but also by hysteroscopy or hysterosalpingography. Treatment can be done by controlling the symptoms with oral combined contraceptive (decreasing metrorrhagia) or with surgical correction improving symptoms and/or fertility [4-7]. Isthmocele correction seems to improve secondary infertility in patients in whom a fertility workup did not find other cause [8,9]. Surgical approach can be done by vaginal route with hysteroscopy; abdominal route with laparoscopy, robotic or laparotomy; or through a combine procedure with both routes. Hysterectomy is the definitive treatment, but for those who want to preserve fertility, isthmocele correction can be offered. For laparoscopic surgery, several ways have been described to detect the isthmocele such as Foley catheter, hysteroscopy, methylene blue, and Hegar probe. When we do laparoscopy, we prefer concomitant use of hysteroscopy. There is a trending opinion that patients with a smaller isthmocele could be treated hysteroscopically (2.5 mm according to Jeremy et al [10] and 3.0 mm described by Marotta et al [11]). The goal of hysteroscopy correction is to remove the inflammatory infiltration in the endocervix, cutting the superior and inferior edges of the defect enabling normal blood evacuation of the uterus. By contrast, those with a larger isthmocele (with <2.5-3.0-mm residual myometrium) and a risk of perforation during hysteroscopy could be better treated by laparoscopy. This is especially important in patients interested in pregnancy because of the risk of uterine perforation [12]. There is still no strong evidence that hysteroscopic correction leads to an increased number of uterine ruptures compared with laparoscopy, but myometrium thickness seems to be greater after laparoscopic correction. Myometrium thickness is an independent risk factor for uterine rupture [13], and therefore, laparoscopic correction is preferred over hysteroscopic in women with a pregnancy desire. Finally, after surgical correction of an isthmocele, we recommend a 6-month interval before attempting pregnancy. INTERVENTIONS: Laparoscopic treatment is important in women who are symptomatic, have thin endometrium, and desire a pregnancy. Key strategies are (1) dissection of the vesicouterine pouch laterally to avoid entering the bladder wall; (2) transillumination with hysteroscopy; (3) cut with cold scissors avoiding thermal damage of remaining myometrium; and (4) suture with figure 8 in multiple layers. No evidence of using a specific suture is available. CONCLUSION: Surgical treatment of a uterine isthmocele is a good option in women who are symptomatic and infertile. Laparoscopic treatment guided by hysteroscopy is a good option if residual myometrium is <3 mm.

Optimal Isthmocele Management: Hysteroscopic, Laparoscopic, or Combination.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a systematic review of the literature on the hysteroscopic and laparoscopic repair of isthmocele. DATA SOURCES: A thorough search of the PubMed/Medline, Embase, and Cochrane databases was performed. (PROSPERO registration number CRD42020190668). METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: Studies from the last 20 years that addressed isthmocele repair were collected. Both authors screened for study eligibility and extracted data. All prospective and retrospective studies of more than 10 women were included. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: The initial search identified 666 articles (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses flow chart) (see Supplemental Fig.). We excluded duplicates, case reports, reviews, video articles, and technique articles. We also excluded studies describing only laparotomy or vaginal repair as these were not in the scope of this review. A total of 31 articles met the inclusion criteria, 21 for hysteroscopic resection and 13 for laparoscopic or combined repair (4 articles tested both modalities and appear in both Tables 1 and 2).For abnormal uterine bleeding, hysteroscopic remodeling relived symptoms in 60% to 100% of cases and laparoscopy in 78% to 94%. Secondary infertility was not evaluated in all studies. After hysteroscopic and laparoscopic treatment, 46% to 100% and 37.5% to 90% of those who wished to conceive became pregnant, after the procedure, respectively. Pain and dysmenorrhea seem to be uncommon. All studies that tested improvement of pain had fewer than 10 women. However, between 66% and 100% of women who complain of pain or dysmenorrhea will note a marked improvement to full resolution. CONCLUSION: Patients with an isthmocele or cesarean scar defect are usually asymptomatic. For symptomatic women, a repair is a valid option. For those with residual myometrial thickness >2 to 3 mm, hysteroscopic remodeling is the modality of choice with an improvement in abnormal uterine bleeding, secondary infertility, and pain. Women with a residual myometrial thickness <2- to 3-mm laparoscopic repair with simultaneous hysteroscopic guidance show similar results. Because available data are limited, no cutoff for the correct choice between hysteroscopy and laparoscopy can be concluded. We recommend 2.5 mm as the cutoff value based on common practice and expert opinion, although no significance between hysteroscopic and laparoscopic treatment was shown.