Abdominal Pregnancy: Pathophysiology, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Abdominal pregnancy is a rare condition that may cause a significant threat to maternal life. This kind of pregnancy is the most-uncommon kind of ectopic pregnancy. It can cause significant morbidity because of its impact on vital organs to ability to reach an advanced gestational age if not promptly diagnosed and managed. Abdominal pregnancy occurs when a fertilized ovum implants within the abdomen but outside the female reproductive organs, either primarily, or as a result of tubal or uterine rupture, or after a procedure. Abdominal pregnancy may be diagnosed incidentally on first-trimester sonography or after a patient presents with abdominal pain or bleeding. The gestational age at presentation varies based on symptoms, location of implantation, and ability of the patient to access care. Treatment is most often surgical, but image-guided vessel embolization or direct injection of methotrexate may also be used in certain clinical situations. Successful treatment often requires a multidisciplinary approach and careful preoperative planning. (J GYNECOL SURG 20XX:000)