Accuracy of Magnetic Resonance Imaging in Diagnosis of Placental Adhesion Disorders Compared to Surgical Results

Abstract

Background: Currently, one in 300 pregnancies is diagnosed with placental adhesion disorders (PADs), and over the last 50 years, the incidence has increased 10-fold due to increasing numbers of cesarean sections. The accuracy of diagnostic procedures is critical and requires further research. The aim of this study was to assess the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the diagnosis of placental adhesions. The correlations between placental adhesions and maternal age, gestational age, gravidity, and the number of previous cesareans were assessed. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study was conducted from January 2019 to August 2021. Data were obtained from the records of 180 pregnant women who underwent MRI pelvis examinations for PADs between the 23rd and 39th week of pregnancy. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed by calculating different statistical measures using surgery findings as the gold standard. Results: The results revealed 100% sensitivity and 93% specificity for the overall MRI diagnosis of placental adhesions. Significant correlations were observed between gestational age and the presence of placental adhesions (P = 0.030, r = 0.233) and between the number of previous cesareans and the presence of placental adhesions (P = 0.0003, r = 0.142). Maternal age and number of pregnancies did not show significant effects. Conclusion: MRI is an accurate and reliable method for diagnosing placental adhesions. Gestational age is considered a key factor in accurate MRI diagnosis.

Keywords

• diagnosis
• magnetic resonance imaging
• placental adhesion disorders
• sensitivity
• specificity