Intermediate
Technical
IVT
uterine incision
Surgical opening of the uterine wall to access the fetus during open fetal surgery procedures.
Full Definition
Surgical opening of the uterine wall to access the fetus during open fetal surgery procedures, typically made in a location that minimizes bleeding and preserves uterine integrity for the remainder of pregnancy. The incision must be carefully placed to avoid the placenta and major vessels, and requires specialized closure techniques to prevent amniotic fluid leakage and maintain pregnancy. The site and method of uterine incision significantly impacts the risk of preterm labor and delivery complications.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from hysterotomy, which refers to the complete procedure.
In Context
- "A small uterine incision was made over the fetal back to expose the myelomeningocele defect." — Operative report
- "Care was taken to ensure the uterine incision was positioned away from the placental margin." — Surgical consultation note
Also known as
hysterotomy incision
uterine entry
Contrasted with
uterine closure
Don't confuse with
cervical incision
abdominal incision