Retrospective case series of fertility outcomes following laparoscopic resection of interstitial ectopic pregnancy

Abstract

Minimally-invasive surgery can improve outcomes in patients with interstitial ectopic pregnancies. However, it remains technically challenging and fertility outcomes following this procedure are not well documented. The aim of this study was to describe a laparoscopic surgical method to treat interstitial ectopic pregnancy using haemostatic sutures and bipolar excision and to assess future pregnancy outcomes in the eighteen women who underwent this operation. In all of the eighteen women, laparoscopic management was successful. Eleven women (61%) reported thirteen subsequent pregnancies with one first trimester miscarriage, one termination of pregnancy, three normal vaginal deliveries and eight caesarean sections. Ten pregnancies (77%) proceeded to term. There was one report of uterine rupture. We conclude that this minimally-invasive surgical method is a safe and effective procedure for the treatment of cornual ectopic pregnancy with preservation of future fertility, however elective caesarean section is recommended in subsequent pregnancies due to the risk of uterine rupture.