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Subject Area

Cardiothoracic Surgery

Article Type

Original Study

Abstract

Objectives The objectives of this study were to compare the accuracy of ultrasonography and MRI for prenatal diagnosis of placenta accreta (PA) and to compare the sensitivity and specificity of individual ultrasonographic and MRI markers in predicting placental invasion in cases of PA. Background PA is a significant cause of maternal morbidity and mortality, and at present it is the most common reason for emergent postpartum hysterectomy. Placenta previa and previous cesarean section are the two most important known risk factors for PA. Accurate prenatal identification of affected pregnancies allows optimal obstetric management. Ultrasonography still remains the diagnostic standard. However, in recent years, there has been increased interest in MRI in evaluating PA. Patients and methods A combined prospective and retrospective study was carried out on 20 pregnant women with persistent placenta previa (after 28 weeks gestation). All patients were subjected to history taking, complete medical examination, and ultrasound, Doppler, and MRI. Results The sensitivity and specificity of ultrasonography were 63.6 and 91.6%, whereas the sensitivity and specificity of MRI were 72.70 and 100%, respectively, in their ability to diagnose PA. Conclusion MRI hand-in-hand with ultrasound is important for the accurate diagnosis of placenta previa and the serious coexisting PA. Use of both modalities may provide more diagnostic information.

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