Incarceration of the gravid uterus: diagnosis and preoperative evaluation by magnetic resonance imaging

Incarceration of the gravid uterus is a rare obstetric disorder that is often not recognized despite the ready availability of ultrasound. However, detailed imaging of the disturbed uterine and pelvic anatomy - from an obstetric point of view- is the key in reducing the potentially severe complications of this condition and planning its treatment. In this paper, we will describe the specific magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) features of an incarceration of the gravid uterus and we will discuss the role of magnetic resonance imaging in defining anatomy and in the medical decision whether to operate or not.