Scar endometriosis is a gynecological complication that general surgeons have to deal with

Abstract

Background: Scar endometriosis is the presence of functional endometrium tissue in surgical incisions. It is a complication that develops after obstetrical or gynecological surgical procedures. As it presents with a mass adjacent to surgical incisions, general surgeons usually deal with it. The authors' aim was to review and discuss the differential diagnosis, treatment methods, recurrence rate, and follow up of scar endometriosis. Materials and Methods: Data of patients diagnosed with incisional scar endometriosis between 2005 and 2012 were recorded retrospectively. Their initial symptoms, previous surgery histories, onset of symptoms after surgery, duration of symptoms, diagnostic modalities, treatment methods, pathological evaluations, and rate of recurrences were documented and analyzed. Results: Seventeen patients were diagnosed to have scar endometriosis. Former surgical histories were one hysterectomy, one vaginal birth with episiotomy, and 15 cesarean sections. Sixteen of the scar endometrioses were demonstrated on pfannenstiel incision and one on episiotomy scar. Only one recurrence was seen during follow up. Conclusion: Scar endometriosis should be taken into account in the surgical practice of incisional site masses of the abdominal wall. They should be excised totally for a proper treatment. Patients must be warned about malignancy risk.