OP22.11: Ultrasound normal images of the abdomen early after Cesarean section

Abstract

Objectives: Ultrasound examination can be indicated early after Cesarean section when complications arise, including postpartum hemorrhage. Results can influence further therapy. The aim of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and characterize normal abdominal ultrasound images post-Cesarean. Methods: Transabdominal ultrasound was performed one to three, and 24 hours after Cesarean delivery. We studied uterine (length, width, distance between promontory and uterine fundus, endometrial thickness and presence of any image within the uterine cavity) and abdominal parameters (fluid in hepatorenal pouch and rectovaginal excavation). Results: Thirty patients following Cesarean section with a singleton pregnancy were examined. All examinations were easily performed except for one case due to morbid obesity. All cases were uneventful. Mean endometrial thickness was 13 ± 2 mm. Mean uterine length was 160 ± 15 mm. No intrauterine abnormal image was observed. Measurement of uterine length was impossible in eight cases due to pain. Mean uterine width was 110 ± 10 mm. Mean distance between promontory and uterine fundus was 104 ± 11 mm. Mean anterior thickness of the uterus was 40 ± 5.4 mm. Mean posterior thickness of the uterus was 39 ± 7.3 mm. No fluid was seen in the hepatorenal pouch and rectovaginal excavation. Findings were constant at 24 hours. Pain limited the examination in 27% of cases only for the uterine length measurement. Conclusions: Ultrasound examination was feasible in all but one patient. Images were easily obtained, even when scanning through the scar. Our results can be compared to complicated cases to help clinicians in the decision-making process.