Uterine Scar Pregnancies. What happens when a pregnancy implants on a previous uterine scar? Episode #120

A scar pregnancy is a rare type of ectopic pregnancy where the fertilized egg implants in the scar tissue of a previous cesarean section or other surgical procedure in the uterus, rather than in the lining of the uterus where a normal pregnancy should occur. This can occur when the scar tissue is not fully healed or is weakened, allowing the fertilized egg to implant and grow in the scar tissue where the uterine muscle can be weakened.

Scar pregnancy can be dangerous, as the scar tissue may not be able to support the growing embryo and can rupture or cause other complications, but it is not always associated with miscarriage or loss of the pregnancy. A scar pregnnacy can actually produce a live. birth.

In addition, scar pregnancy can be difficult to diagnose, as it may not produce typical pregnancy symptoms and may not be visible on a standard ultrasound. A highly trained expert sonographer is generally what is needed for diagnosis.  Dr. Ilan Timor is an expert OB/GYN with extensive years in scanning for these types of pregnancies and is world-renown in how to treat and diagnosis these types of pregnancies.  Fortunate of us a Maternal Resources, he has recenlty joined our team and can assist us in the diagnosis, treatment and managment of different types of pregnancies. 

From Dr. Timor's perspective he doesn't alwasy consider a scar pregnancy an ectopic pregnancy. It is generally accepted in the medical community that a scar pregnancy is a type of ectopic pregnancy, despite the fact that the gestational sac is located within the uterus. This is because the fertilized egg has implanted in scar tissue outside of the normal location in the endometrial lining of the uterus.

In fact, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) defines an ectopic pregnancy as "any gestation that implants outside the endometrial lining of the uterine cavity." This includes implantation in the fallopian tube (the most common location for ectopic pregnancy), as well as other locations outside the uterus, such as the cervix, ovaries, and abdominal cavity.

While scar pregnancy is a relatively rare type of ectopic pregnancy, it can still pose serious health risks and requires prompt medical attention and treatment. Treatment for scar pregnancy typically involves surgical removal of the ectopic pregnancy and the scar tissue, in order to prevent further complications and preserve the health of the uterus.  

Maintaining the integrity of the uterus is very important in scar pregnancies. When a fertilized egg implants in the scar tissue of a previous cesarean section or other surgical procedure, it can weaken the scar tissue and put the integrity of the uterus at risk. Scar tissue may be thinner and more prone to tearing, which can lead to bleeding and other complications. If a scar pregnancy is not treated promptly, it can result in further damage to the uterus and potentially require more extensive surgical intervention, such as a hysterectomy.

Therefore, early detection and prompt treatment of scar pregnancy is important to preserve the health and integrity of the uterus. Treatment typically involves the removal of the ectopic pregnancy and scar tissue, which may be done through surgery or medication depending on the severity of the case.

If you suspect you may have a scar pregnancy, it is important to seek medical attention right away. Your healthcare provider can perform an ultrasound and other diagnostic tests to determine the best course of treatment for your individual situation.

Dr. Timor can be found in our practice at www.maternalresources.org
He is currently accepting patients and consults in our New York City office to reach us call (201) 487-8600