Manual removal of the placenta--its role in intrauterine adhesion formation.

Abstract

Objective: To determine the role of postpartum intrauterine manipulation of the uterine cavity in the formation of intrauterine adhesions.

Patients and methods: Diagnostic hysteroscopy was performed following manual removal of the placenta in 48 patients.

Results: Intrauterine adhesions were observed in only one case (2%), and an incomplete uterine septum was found in seven cases (15%).

Conclusions: Manual removal of the placenta does not seem to predispose to the formation of uterine adhesions. Incomplete uterine septum may be involved in some of the cases of retained placenta.