Diagnostic Precision of Color Doppler Ultrasound for Antenatal Diagnosis of Placenta Accreta Compared to Histopathology in Obstetric Practice

Abstract

Background: Placenta accreta is a serious obstetric complication characterized by abnormal placental attachment, leading to significant maternal and fetal risks. Early detection is crucial for improving management outcomes. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic precision of color doppler ultrasound for the antenatal diagnosis of placenta accreta compared to histopathological findings. Study Design: Cross-sectional study Setting: Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Makran Medical College, Turbat Duration: From June 2021 to December 2021. Methods: A total of 130 pregnant women suspected of having placenta accreta underwent Color Doppler Ultrasound between 28 and 36 weeks of gestation. Histopathological examination of the placenta post-delivery served as the gold standard for diagnosis. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value (NPV) of the ultrasound findings were calculated. Results: Color Doppler Ultrasound identified 50 cases of placenta accreta, with histopathology confirming 45. The sensitivity, specificity, PPV, and NPV of Color Doppler Ultrasound were found to be 89.4%, 90.4%, 84.0%, and 93.7%, respectively. Conclusion: Color Doppler Ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool for the antenatal detection of placenta accreta, enhancing preoperative planning and reducing maternal and fetal complications.