Ultrasonic prediction of complications following normal vaginal delivery

Abstract

One hundred uncomplicated pregnancies of primigravida and secundigravida gestation were scanned within 24 h of delivery. The ultrasonic appearances of the uterus were categorized into three groups: 1) empty uterus; 2) cavity separation indicating blood or clot; and 3) dense cavity echoes representing retained tissue. The presence of blood and clot in the puerperium is a common occurrence that resolves spontaneously. Retained tissues of conception were present in 10 cases and were passed spontaneously in four women within the first 3 days postpartum. The presence of retained tissue after the fourth day is support for surgical evacuation of the uterus. Gray-scale ultrasonic examination was accurate in diagnosing all of these cases.