Maternal and Foetal Outcomes in Abdominal Pregnancy: A Case Series and Review of The Literature

Abdominal pregnancy case series

Authors

  • Kubeyinje W.E Isikhuemen University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Isikhuemen M.E Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Anya C.J Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Ezeanochie M.C Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Enabudoso E.J Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Iribhogbe O.I Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Aziken M.E Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital
  • Okonofua F.E Department of Obstetrics and gynecology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital

Abstract

Background

Abdominal pregnancy is rare and occurs when there is partial or total implantation of the embryo in the abdominal cavity. It constitutes about 1.4% of ectopic pregnancies with an incidence ranging from 1:10,000 to 1:30,000 pregnancies.  We report five cases of abdominal pregnancy with one case of fetal survival , and review the existing literature.

Case presentation

The patients presented with abdominal pain, bleeding per vagina and vaginal discharge. One was asymptomatic.  All patients were haemodynamically stable except one. They eventually had surgery following ultrasound diagnosis of abdominal pregnancy. The placenta was left insitu in one of the cases. There was no maternal mortality but only one of the babies survived. 

Conclusion

Abdominal pregnancy is rare and diagnosis may be challenging, requiring a high index of suspicion. It is associated with fetal wastage. Surgical treatment is a reliable option of management, associated with good maternal outcome.

Keywords

Abdominal pregnancy, ectopic pregnancy, laparotomy

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Published

2023-08-07

Issue

Vol. 40 No. 2 (2023): Tropical Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology

Section

Case Report

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