Uterine septum

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Uterine septum
Synonyms	Septate uterus
Pronounce	N/A
Specialty	N/A
Symptoms	Infertility, recurrent miscarriage, abnormal uterine bleeding
Complications	Pregnancy complications, preterm birth
Onset	Congenital
Duration	Lifelong unless surgically corrected
Types	N/A
Causes	Müllerian duct anomaly
Risks	Family history, genetic factors
Diagnosis	Ultrasound, MRI, Hysteroscopy
Differential diagnosis	Bicornuate uterus, Arcuate uterus
Prevention	None
Treatment	Surgical resection (hysteroscopic septum resection)
Medication	None specific
Prognosis	Good with treatment
Frequency	1-2% of women
Deaths	N/A

A uterine septum is a congenital malformation of the uterus where a fibrous or muscular wall divides the uterine cavity. This condition can affect a woman's reproductive capabilities and is associated with an increased risk of miscarriage and infertility.

Anatomy and Classification

The uterine septum is classified based on the extent of the septum within the uterine cavity. It can be partial, where the septum does not reach the cervix, or complete, where the septum extends to the cervix, potentially dividing the cervix as well. The septum is composed of fibrous tissue, which is less vascular than the normal uterine tissue, leading to complications in pregnancy.

Causes

The condition arises during fetal development when the Mullerian ducts fail to fuse completely, resulting in a septum. The exact cause of this failure is not well understood, but it is considered a developmental anomaly.

Symptoms

Many women with a uterine septum are asymptomatic and may not be aware of the condition until they experience reproductive issues. Common symptoms include recurrent miscarriage, infertility, and sometimes dysmenorrhea or abnormal uterine bleeding.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of a uterine septum is typically made through imaging studies. Ultrasound, particularly 3D ultrasound, is commonly used. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and hysteroscopy are also effective diagnostic tools. Hysteroscopy allows direct visualization and potential treatment of the septum.

Treatment

The primary treatment for a uterine septum is surgical removal, known as a hysteroscopic metroplasty. This procedure involves the resection of the septum using a hysteroscope. The surgery is minimally invasive and has a high success rate in improving reproductive outcomes.

Prognosis

The prognosis after surgical treatment is generally good, with many women experiencing improved fertility and reduced miscarriage rates. However, the outcome can vary depending on the extent of the septum and other individual factors.

See also

• Uterine malformation
• Mullerian duct anomalies
• Reproductive system