Scottish audit of ectopic pregnancy

Abstract

ObjectiveTo evaluate the use of laparoscopic procedures in the treatment of ectopic pregnancies by a cross‐section of gynaecologists in ScotlandDesignA prospective registration of cases of laparoscopically treated ectopic pregnancy by gynaecologists. Case‐note review was also performed in selected hospitals.Setting13 hospitals in seven Scottish Health Board areas.SubjectsWomen having laparoscopic treatment of ectopic pregnancy.ResultsBetween April 1994 and March 1996, 85 ectopic pregnancies were treated laparoscopically. Contraindications for laparoscopic surgery were most commonly size of the ectopic gestation (53%), presence of intraperitoneal bleeding (42%) and tubal rupture (44%). Salpingotomy was performed in 16% overall with only 86% of consultants monitoring serial human chorionic gonadotrophin levels.ConclusionsLaparoscopic treatment of ectopic pregnancies in Scotland is infrequent. Lack of availability of adequate equipment and trained staff was often quoted as the reason preventing surgeons from developing their skills in these techniques. Complication rates were low and patient satisfaction high.