SEP Revision Flashcards
(451 cards)
Describe the cause of a molar pregnancy.
A molar pregnancy occurs due to an abnormal fertilization event leading to the growth of abnormal trophoblastic tissue.
What are the symptoms of a molar pregnancy?
Symptoms include vaginal bleeding, excessive nausea and vomiting, an enlarged uterus, and the passage of grape-like cysts.
How is a molar pregnancy typically diagnosed initially?
A molar pregnancy is initially investigated using a transvaginal ultrasound to reveal a ‘snowstorm’ pattern and by checking serum hCG levels.
What is the best diagnostic test for confirming a molar pregnancy?
The best diagnostic test is an ultrasound, which shows characteristic patterns of molar pregnancy, and histopathology following tissue examination.
Describe the key differentials between missed abortion, ectopic pregnancy, and normal pregnancy with bleeding.
Missed abortion is differentiated by ultrasound findings, ectopic pregnancy often presents with different symptoms and ultrasound findings, while normal pregnancy with bleeding may require careful monitoring and follow-up.
What is the initial treatment for removing molar tissue?
Evacuation of the uterus using suction curettage is the preferred method for removing molar tissue.
How is prophylactic chemotherapy used in the management of high-risk cases?
Prophylactic chemotherapy may be considered to prevent the development of gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) in high-risk cases.
Define the step management for molar tissue evacuation.
Step management includes performing suction curettage to remove the abnormal tissue, monitoring hCG levels weekly until undetectable, then monthly for 6 months to 1 year, advising against pregnancy during follow-up, and regular monitoring for the development of GTN or persistent trophoblastic disease.
What should be done if hCG levels plateau or rise during follow-up?
If hCG levels plateau or rise, referral to a specialist for further management, including possible chemotherapy, should be considered.
Describe the causes of immediate postoperative fever (0-48 hours)
Causes include surgical stress response, atelectasis, and reactions to medications.
What is the initial management approach for immediate postoperative fever?
Initial management involves close observation of vital signs and providing supportive care like deep breathing exercises, hydration, and pain control.
How should acute postoperative fever (Day 3-5) be managed according to RACGP guidelines?
Management involves considering causes like UTI, pneumonia, and superficial surgical site infection, and appropriate treatment based on the identified cause.
Define atelectasis in the context of postoperative fever
Atelectasis refers to the collapse of lung tissue, often triggered by anesthesia and immobility.
What should be done if the fever persists during the immediate postoperative period despite initial management?
Reassess for missed causes like infections or adverse medication reactions and consider further intervention if needed.
Describe the signs of superficial surgical site infection in the context of postoperative fever
Signs include redness, warmth, or drainage from the incision site, indicating a possible infection.
How can postoperative fever be managed in the immediate postoperative period without further intervention?
If the fever resolves spontaneously and there are no signs of infection, continued monitoring is sufficient without additional intervention.
What is the significance of urinary tract infection (UTI) in causing acute postoperative fever?
UTI is a common cause of fever on Day 3-5 post-surgery, especially in patients with indwelling catheters.
Describe the initial management steps for suspected infections postoperatively.
Perform urine culture for UTI, chest X-ray for pneumonia, and clinical examination of the surgical site.
What is the recommended action if there is a clinical suspicion of infection postoperatively?
Start empiric antibiotics and adjust therapy based on culture results.
How should antibiotic therapy be managed in postoperative infections?
Modify antibiotics based on culture and sensitivity results.
What wound care should be provided for a superficial surgical site infection?
Appropriate wound care, which may include opening the wound for drainage.
What supportive care measures are recommended for postoperative infections like pneumonia?
Continue oxygen therapy, fluids for hydration, and antipyretics to manage fever.
Where can more detailed guidelines on managing infections be found?
RACGP guidelines.
What are the potential causes of subacute postoperative fever (Day 5-8)?
Surgical site infection, deep venous thrombosis, anastomotic leak.