Perinatal Evaluation of the Bilobed or Bipartite Placenta

Abstract

This case study describes a bilobed or bipartite placenta followed by serial ultrasound. Incidence of occurrence is reported by Fujikura et al as 4.2% in a study of 8505 deliveries,or approximately 1 in 357 deliveries. The diagnosis of an anomalous placenta is important for patient management at time of delivery. Specifically,the bilobed placenta can be associated with first-trimester bleeding,polyhydramnios,abruption,and retained placenta. Care ful attention to the cord insertion is also required for optimal fetal management. The authors describe the sonographic features and evolution of a bilobed placenta and its relationship to the pregnancy outcome.