Placenta percreta

Placenta percreta is a severe form of placenta accreta, a condition where the placenta attaches too deeply into the uterus wall. In placenta percreta, the placenta penetrates the entire uterine wall and can attach to other organs such as the bladder or rectum. This condition is rare, occurring in approximately 1 in 2,500 to 5,000 pregnancies.

Causes

The exact cause of placenta percreta is unknown, but it is more common in women who have had previous cesarean sections or other uterine surgeries. Other risk factors include advanced maternal age, multiple pregnancies, and placenta previa.

Symptoms

Symptoms of placenta percreta may include vaginal bleeding during the third trimester, pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen, and a larger than expected uterus for the gestational age. However, many women with placenta percreta do not have any symptoms and the condition is often discovered during routine ultrasound examinations.

Diagnosis

Placenta percreta is usually diagnosed through ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). These imaging tests can show the placenta penetrating the uterine wall and attaching to other organs.

Treatment

Treatment for placenta percreta usually involves a planned cesarean section followed by removal of the uterus (hysterectomy). This is done to prevent severe bleeding, which can be life-threatening. In some cases, the placenta may be left in place and allowed to reabsorb into the body, but this approach carries a risk of infection and other complications.

Prognosis

With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for women with placenta percreta is generally good. However, the condition can cause serious complications, including severe bleeding, damage to other organs, and premature birth.

See also

• Placenta accreta
• Placenta previa
• Cesarean section
• Hysterectomy

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