Postpartum Complications: Retained Placental Fragments

Question 1

Fragments of the placenta separates and are left still attached to the uterus

Answer 1

Retained Placental Fragments

Question 2

Because the portion retained keeps the uterus from contracting fully, what will happen afterwards?

Answer 2

Uterine bleeding will occur

Question 3

Retained Placental Fragments usually occur at patients with

Answer 3

1. Placenta Accreta
2. Placenta Succenturiata

Question 4

Retained Placental Fragments are associated with

Answer 4

1. Previous CS
2. In vitro fertilization

Question 5

Can be identified by what diagnostic procedure

Answer 5

Ultrasound

Question 6

Removing a deeply embedded placenta can lead to

Answer 6

Severe postpartum hemorrhage

Question 7

To identify the complication of a retained placenta, what would be the course of action?

Answer 7

Every placenta should be inspected carefully after birth to be certain it is complete

Question 8

Assessment for Retained Placental Fragments

Answer 8

If fragments are large - bleeding will immediately occur because the uterus cannot contract with the fragments in place

If fragments are small - bleeding will not be detected until postpartum day 6-10

Question 9

Therapeutic Management for Retained Placental Fragments

Answer 9

1. Remove fragments through D&C
2. Be certain the patient knows to continue to observe the color of lochia

Question 10

True or False: Report any tendency for the discharge to change from lochia serosa or alba back to rubra

Answer 10

True

Question 11

If D&C is ineffective

Answer 11

Balloon occlusion and embolization of the internal iliac arteries may be necessary to minimize blood loss

Question 12

True or False: Some instances, hysterectomy is performed

Answer 12

True