ADHERENT PLACENTA Meaning and
Definition
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An adherent placenta is a medical condition that occurs during childbirth, where the placenta does not detach from the uterine wall as it should after the delivery of the baby. The placenta is an essential organ during pregnancy, providing nutrition and oxygen to the developing fetus. Typically, the placenta detaches naturally following the birth process, allowing it to be expelled from the body. However, in the case of an adherent placenta, the organ remains attached or partially attached to the uterine wall, leading to potential complications.
This condition is also referred to as placenta accreta, increta, or percreta, depending on the severity and depth of attachment. Adherent placenta is often associated with previous uterine surgeries, such as a cesarean section, or certain uterine abnormalities. The risk of developing this condition is higher in women who have had multiple pregnancies or are of an older age.
Adherent placenta can cause excessive bleeding after delivery, as the detachment process is unsuccessful. This can lead to serious complications, such as hemorrhage, infection, or even the need for a hysterectomy. Diagnosis of an adherent placenta is typically confirmed through ultrasound imaging or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
Management of this condition usually involves a team approach, including obstetricians, radiologists, and sometimes even a reproductive specialist. Treatment options may include medications to help manage bleeding, physical removal of the placenta under anesthesia, or in some cases, surgical intervention. Close monitoring and follow-up care are essential to ensure the well-being and recovery of the mother after an adherent placenta is diagnosed and successfully managed.
Etymology of ADHERENT PLACENTA
The word "adherent" comes from the Latin word "adhaerens", which is the present participle of "adhaerere", meaning "to stick to" or "to adhere". The term "placenta" is derived from the Latin word "placenta", which originally referred to a flat cake. In medical terminology, the placenta is the organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, providing nourishment and oxygen to the fetus. Therefore, when combined, "adherent placenta" refers to a condition in which the placenta abnormally attaches or sticks tightly to the uterine wall, making it difficult to deliver after childbirth.
