Charting the Course of Subchorionic Hematoma Size: What You Need to Know.

Introduction

A subchorionic hematoma is a collection of blood that forms between the chorion and the amnion, two of the fetal membranes that surround the fetus. It is a common complication of pregnancy, and it can occur in up to 10% of all pregnancies. While the majority of these hematomas resolve by themselves, some can become large and can cause complications. It is important for obstetricians to be aware of the potential risks and to chart the course of the hematoma size in order to determine the best course of action for the patient.

What is a Subchorionic Hematoma?

A subchorionic hematoma is a collection of blood that forms between the chorion and the amnion, two of the fetal membranes that surround the fetus. It is also known as a subchorionic hemorrhage, subchorionic bleed, or subchorionic collection. It is a common complication of pregnancy, and it can occur in up to 10% of all pregnancies. The hematoma is usually caused by a tear in the placenta, which is the organ that provides the fetus with oxygen and nutrients. The tear can be caused by trauma, such as a car accident, or it can occur spontaneously. The hematoma can range in size from a few millimeters to several centimeters.

Diagnosis and Management of Subchorionic Hematomas

Subchorionic hematomas are usually diagnosed during an ultrasound. The ultrasound will show a collection of fluid between the chorion and the amnion. The size of the hematoma will be measured and monitored over time to determine if it is getting larger or smaller. If the hematoma is small and is not causing any symptoms, it can usually be monitored without any intervention. The patient should be advised to rest and avoid any activities that could increase the risk of trauma to the uterus. If the hematoma is large, the patient may be placed on bed rest and medications may be prescribed to reduce the risk of preterm labor. If the hematoma is very large, the patient may be referred to a maternal-fetal medicine specialist for further evaluation and management.

Risks Associated with Subchorionic Hematomas

Subchorionic hematomas can cause complications, such as preterm labor, placental abruption, and fetal growth restriction. The risk of these complications increases with the size of the hematoma. The risk of preterm labor is increased if the hematoma is larger than 20 millimeters. Placental abruption is a serious condition in which the placenta separates from the uterus, and it is more likely to occur if the hematoma is larger than 30 millimeters. Fetal growth restriction is a condition in which the fetus does not grow at the expected rate, and it is more likely to occur if the hematoma is larger than 40 millimeters.

Charting the Course of Subchorionic Hematoma Size

It is important for obstetricians to chart the course of the hematoma size in order to determine the best course of action for the patient. The size of the hematoma should be measured at each ultrasound, and the measurements should be compared to the previous measurements. The rate of growth should also be monitored, as this can help to determine if the hematoma is increasing in size or not. If the hematoma is increasing in size, the patient should be closely monitored and any interventions should be considered. If the hematoma is decreasing in size, the patient should be monitored for any signs of complications and the patient should be advised to rest and avoid any activities that could increase the risk of trauma to the uterus.

Conclusion

Subchorionic hematomas are a common complication of pregnancy, and they can cause serious complications if they become large. It is important for obstetricians to be aware of the potential risks and to chart the course of the hematoma size in order to determine the best course of action for the patient. If the hematoma is increasing in size, the patient should be closely monitored and any interventions should be considered. If the hematoma is decreasing in size, the patient should be monitored for any signs of complications and the patient should be advised to rest and avoid any activities that could increase the risk of trauma to the uterus.