Placental pathology: A review of placenta previa, placental abruption and placenta accreta

Over the last four decades, primary and emergency cesarean delivery rates have risen worldwide. An almost simultaneous increase in the incidence of placental abnormalities - including placenta previa, placental abruption, and placenta accreta - has prompted growing interest into the management of their potentially life-threatening obstetric outcomes. The anaesthesiologist’s expertise in treatment of the parturient and massive haemorrhage resuscitation is a valuable component of the multidisciplinary care team’s capacity to reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. This article will review recent updates in the diagnosis and management of placental pathology and will present challenges facing today’s obstetric anesthesiologist.