An observational study on diagnosis and management of adnexal masses in pregnancy

Background: Adnexal masses are seen in 1 in 80 to 1 in 8,000 pregnancies. However, with an increased use of ultrasonography in pregnancy, there is a significant rise in the incidence of adnexal masses in pregnancy. Objective: The study was undertaken to analyse the incidence, histological types, complications, and management of adnexal masses in pregnancy. Materials and Methods: This is an observational study of 44 cases of adnexal masses in pregnancy, performed in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology LTMMC and LTMGH, Mumbai, a tertiary reference centre, during the years 2014 to 2016. Results: The incidence of adnexal masses in pregnancy was 0.2% in this study with dermoid and mucinous cyst adenoma being the most common histological types. Torsion was the most common complication seen in the study. Only 11 (25%) cases were managed conservatively. Thirty-one cases underwent exploratory laparotomy and two were managed laparoscopically. There was no significant detrimental effect on pregnancy as 79.5% of pregnancies continued until term without any complications. Conclusion: Adnexal masses in pregnancy can be effectively managed in pregnancy. Both laparotomy and laparoscopy are safe, if used judiciously.