Laparoscopic Excision of a Scar Pregnancy and Isthmocele Repair

Abstract

Study ObjectiveLaparoscopic excision of a scar pregnancy and isthmocele repair with a barbed suture. DesignA step-by-step explanation of the laparoscopic excision technique of a scar pregnancy and isthmocele repair. SettingCesarean scar pregnancy occurs as a result of attachment of the products of conception to the uterine scar [1–3]. In the present case, a 34-year-old, gravida 4, para 1 patient with a history of 1 miscarriage and 1 ectopic pregnancy was diagnosed with type 2 cesarean scar pregnancy at 7 weeks of gestation. Dilation and curretage was performed at the 8th week of gestation to terminate the pregnancy. On ultrasonography performed 1 month later, placental material underlying the isthmocele was observed. Her beta human chorionic gonadotropin level was 13 836 mIU/mL. She was followed up for 1.5 months until the beta human chorionic gonadotropin levels were negative. However, the mass underneath the scar had grown larger, measuring up to 5 × 6 cm. Laparoscopy was performed because the patient reported vaginal spotting and pelvic pain. The incision was sutured with a synthetic absorbable unidirectional barbed suture (Stratafix Knotless Tissue Control Device; Ethicon Inc., Somerville, NJ). No residual scar defect was visible on follow-up ultrasonography 1 week and 1 month after surgery. ConclusionBarbed sutures ease the repair of uterine scar defects and can provide ideal reapproximation of thick myometrial tissue. Laparoscopic treatment of a scar pregnancy and isthmocele repair are effective and safe modes of treatment.