Routine revision of uterine scar after cesarean section: Has it ever been necessary?

Abstract

Although a trial of labor after cesarean section (VBAC) is successful and relatively safe, few studies have directly addressed the necessity of routine transcervical revision of uterine scar after prior cesarean section. We performed a longitudinal study of 3469 women who had VBAC. In all patients, uterine scar integrity was examined immediately after placental expulsion. The detection rate of uterine scar dehiscence or rupture was 0.23% (8/3469). Only one woman with complete uterine rupture needed immediate laparotomy for severe hemorrhage. Out of seven patients (0.2%), who had evidence of uterine dehiscence, three underwent explorative laparotomy. In conclusion, the potential benefit of routine examination of uterine scar after VBAC is doubtful. Transcervical revision should be performed only in symptomatic patients.