Can the final sonographic assessment of the cesarean section scar be predicted 6 weeks after the operation?

Abstract

Objective: The aim of the study was to compare the sonographic characteristics of the cesarean section (CS) scar 6 weeks and 6 months after operation. We tested the hypothesis that the dehiscence risk coefficient (DRC) measured 6 weeks and 6 month after CS does not change. Materials and Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted in 43 primiparous women delivered by CS. The thickness of the myometrium proximal and distal to the CS scar, and the thickness of the CS scar were measured transvaginally. The severity of the CS scar defect was evaluated using the DRC. Results: The cut-off value (5th percentile) for the CS scar thickness and for DRC was 3.0 mm and 0.25, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between DRC 6 weeks and 6 months after CS (correlation coefficient r = 0.97). Conclusion: DRC can describe the defect of the CS scar adequately by the end of the puerperium.

Keywords

• cesarean section
• cesarean section scar
• dehiscence risk coefficient
• ultrasound
• uterus