The role of laparoscopy in the diagnosis and management of heterotopic pregnancies

Hum Reprod. 1997 May;12(5):1100-2. doi: 10.1093/humrep/12.5.1100.

Abstract

The object of this report is to discuss diagnosis and treatment of heterotopic pregnancies. Thirteen consecutive cases referred to our institution are reviewed. In 54% of cases the heterotopic pregnancy was asymptomatic. The ectopic pregnancy was visualized prior to surgery in 69% of the cases. The treatment was surgical in every case and performed laparoscopically in 77% of cases. Ten patients underwent salpingectomy and three salpingostomy. In all, 60% of intrauterine pregnancies that were viable at the time of diagnosis of the heterotopic pregnancy had a favourable outcome. Diagnosis of heterotopic pregnancy is difficult. Laparoscopy allows both diagnosis and treatment, and the outcome of the intrauterine pregnancy is comparable to that obtained with laparotomy.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Fallopian Tubes / surgery
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Laparoscopy*
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy*
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic / diagnosis*
  • Pregnancy, Ectopic / therapy*
  • Retrospective Studies