Caesarean scar defect and retained products of conception (RPOC): a step-by-step combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic treatment.

Abstract

Background: Uterine scar defect (also called uterine niche or isthmocele) associated to retained products of conception (RPOC) is an uncommon occurrence following caesarean section. Typically, the primary indicator is abnormal vaginal bleeding, and an accurate diagnosis can be established through ultrasound evaluation. Several surgical and endoscopic treatments have been described.

Objectives: To show a step-by-step video of combined hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach to perform isthmocele repair in a patient with caesarean scar defect and RPOC.

Materials and methods: We report a case of a 34-year-old patient who was referred to our Digital Hysteroscopic Clinic (DHC) for abnormal vaginal bleeding and persistent pelvic pain, three months after a caesarean section. A single-step diagnostic approach through transvaginal ultrasound and diagnostic hysteroscopy revealed the presence of an isthmic uterine niche within the caesarean scar area, containing a poorly vascularised heterogeneous hyperechoic focal mass measuring 33x11x33 millimetres.

Main outcome measures: Removal of RPOC and surgical complications.

Results: All retained placental tissue was removed and the uterine wall defect was corrected. No complications occurred and the patient was discharged two days after the procedure. Patient was asymptomatic at 3 months follow up and ultrasound and hysteroscopy showed a reconstituted uterine wall.

Conclusion: An integrated hysteroscopic and laparoscopic approach seems to be an effective conservative method to remove RPOC and perform isthmocele repair with optimal surgical results.