Ultrasonic prediction of complications following normal vaginal delivery

Abstract
One hundred uncomplicated pregnancies of primigravida and secundigravida gestation were scanned within 24 hr 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.

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