Postpartum Ultrasound: An Indispensable Tool in the Labor Ward.

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage can occur because of different conditions. Apart from placental remnants and uterine atony, less common causes include uterine rupture, placental polyps, arteriovenous malformations, and pseudoaneurysms. Ultrasound plays a key role in the precise definition of the underlying pathology, which is necessary to initiate the appropriate therapy. It also helps to depict intraabdominal hematomas and uterine scar dehiscence, 2 conditions that do not necessarily lead to postpartum hemorrhage but are associated with increased maternal morbidity. This article presents 52 ultrasound images together with clinical and histopathologic images to give an overview of both frequent and rare pathologies in the postpartum period.