Physical resolution of tubal ectopic pregnancy on ultrasound imaging following successful expectant management

Abstract

Research question

What is the time required for complete physical resolution of tubal ectopic pregnancies diagnosed on ultrasound imaging in women undergoing successful expectant management?

Design

A prospective observational cohort study of 177 women who had successful expectant management of tubal ectopic pregnancy, who attended a single Early Pregnancy Unit between January 2014 and December 2018. All participants were monitored until their serum beta-human chorionic gonadotrophin (beta-HCG) dropped to non-pregnant concentrations and with 2-weekly follow-up ultrasound scans until resolution of the pregnancy.

Results

A total of 112/177 (63.3%, 95% confidence interval [CI] 55.7–70.4) of tubal ectopic pregnancies were indiscernible on ultrasound 2 weeks after serum beta-HCG had returned to non-pregnant concentrations. In 8/177 (4.5%, 95% CI 2.0–8.7), physical resolution took longer than 78 days. There was a positive correlation between biochemical and physical resolution of tubal ectopic pregnancy (r = 0.21, P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Physical resolution of tubal ectopic pregnancy is often prolonged and is positively correlated with initial and maximum beta-HCG concentrations. Results of this study indicate that beta-HCG resolution cannot be used as the end-point of expectant management of tubal ectopic pregnancy, which should be considered when counselling women and planning for future pregnancies.