“Prospective Analytical Study of Ectopic Pregnancy in a Tertiary Care Centre: A Devastating Catastrophe”

Abstract

Background: Ectopic pregnancy (EP) is the most common life-threatening emergency in early pregnancy leading to signicant maternal morbidity and mortality. The objective of the study was to determine the incidence, clinical features, risk factors, mode of diagnosis and treatment, associated morbidity and mortality with respect to EP. Method: This was a prospective analytical study conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kempegowda Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, over a period of 18 months (July 2021 to December 2022). A total of 42 cases of EP were analyzed in detail for the above-mentioned objectives. Result: A total of 42 cases of EP were included in our study. Incidence of EP was 4.25%. Majority of EP belonged to the age group of 26-30 years (42.9%). Incidence of EP was more in the women with higher birth order (85.7%) than in primigravida. Majority of them had at least one risk factor, of which the commonest was previous caesarean section (35.7%) followed by history of PID (19%). The classic triad of symptoms of EP was observed in 57.1% cases. Commonest site for tubal ectopic pregnancy was ampulla (45.1%). Amongst 41 cases of tubal pregnancies, 48.8% were ruptured. All patient's included in our study underwent surgery. Unilateral salpingectomy (by laparotomy) was the commonest (42.9%) surgery performed. There was no maternal mortality. Conclusion: Ectopic pregnancy is still a major challenge in obstetric and gynecological practice because of its bizarre clinical presentation. Early diagnosis and timely intervention not only reduces maternal morbidity and mortality but also preserves future fertility.