Current Trends in the Management of Ectopic Pregnancy – A Review

Abstract

Background: Ectopic pregnancy is a common life threatening gynaecological emergency in our environment. In developed centers, diagnosis is made before rupture occurs, however, most cases in our environment still present late with severe intraperitoneal haemorrhage.Apart from the late presentation; most of our institutions lack the necessary technology and man power to make early diagnosis
Aims and objective: The aim of this article is to review the current trends in the diagnosis and management of ectopic pregnancy, evaluate our peculiar socioeconomic circumstances and determine how best to circumvent mortalities and morbidities.
Study design and Methodology: Extensive search was made on medline, Pub med and African journal on line using the key words ectopic pregnancy and extra uterine pregnancy. Additional information was obtained from text books in the medical library of University of Nigeria.
Results: Ectopic pregnancy is common .Most risk factors tend to interfere with tubal structure and function. Mortalities and morbidities are low when diagnosis is made before rupture occurs.Absense of cross matched blood should not be a deterrent to exploratory laparotomy.
Conclusion: Despite apparent lack of facilities, our clinicians should exhibit the highest degree of clinical acumen and make diagnosis before rupture occurs, as some patients may desire conservation of their reproductive and menstrual functions.


Keywords: Ectopic pregnancy, tubal rupture, blood transfusion

Journal of College of Medicine Vol. 12 (2) 2007: pp. 67-75