Endometriosis of a postoperative scar

Abstract

One of the long-term complications of abdominal surgery is endometriosis of the postoperative scar (EPS). The frequency of this condition is 0.03–1.08%. Mechanical implantation of endometrium during primary surgery plays a leading role in the pathogenesis of EPS. Together with clinical manifestations, ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging are important diagnostic tools for this postoperative complication. Differential diagnosis requires excluding suture granulomas, hematomas, fibroids, hernias, lipomas, seromas, abscesses, and other malignant and benign soft tissue tumors in the area of the scar. This article describes a case of EPS in two women who had undergone cesarean section. Adequate removal of endometrial infiltrates, followed by abdominoplasty, allowed them to avoid recurrence and achieve optimal cosmetic results. Currently, in order to prevent the occurrence of EPS after surgical delivery, it is recommended to change gloves after removing the afterbirth and before restoring the integrity of the anterior abdominal wall, as well as limiting the edges of the wound to the abdominal cavity.