Piergiorgio Iannone1, Giulia Nencini1, Gloria Bonaccorsi1, Ruby Martinello1, Giovanni Pontrelli2, Marco Scioscia2, Luigi Nappi3, Pantaleo Greco1, Gennaro Scutiero1. 1. Section of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Department of Morphology, Surgery and Experimental Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria S. Anna, Università di Ferrara, Cona, Ferrara, Italy. 2. Section of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Policlinico di Abano Terme, Abano Terme, Padova, Italy. 3. Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, Institute of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Foggia, Foggia, Italy.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to perform a comprehensive review of the literature to provide a complete and clear picture of isthmocele-a hypoechoic area within the myometrium at the site of the uterine scar of a previous cesarean section-by exploring in depth every aspect of this condition. METHODS: A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to identify the most relevant studies about this topic. RESULTS: Every aspect of isthmocele has been studied and described: pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, classification, and diagnosis. Its treatment, both medical and surgical, has also been reported according to the actual literature data. CONCLUSION: Cesarean section is the most common surgical procedure performed worldwide, and one of the consequences of this technique is isthmocele. A single and systematic classification of isthmocele is needed to improve its diagnosis and management. Further studies should be performed to better understand its pathogenesis. Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present study was to perform a comprehensive review of the literature to provide a complete and clear picture of isthmocele-a hypoechoic area within the myometrium at the site of the uterine scar of a previous cesarean section-by exploring in depth every aspect of this condition. METHODS: A comprehensive review of the literature was performed to identify the most relevant studies about this topic. RESULTS: Every aspect of isthmocele has been studied and described: pathophysiology, clinical symptoms, classification, and diagnosis. Its treatment, both medical and surgical, has also been reported according to the actual literature data. CONCLUSION: Cesarean section is the most common surgical procedure performed worldwide, and one of the consequences of this technique is isthmocele. A single and systematic classification of isthmocele is needed to improve its diagnosis and management. Further studies should be performed to better understand its pathogenesis. Thieme Revinter Publicações Ltda Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.