Single- versus multiple-dose methotrexate in cesarean scar pregnancies management: treatment and reproductive outcomes

Abstract

Purpose We aim to assess the outcome of the treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) with single-dose methotrexate (MTX) versus multiple-dose MTX protocols. Methods A retrospective cohort study including two tertiary medical centers was conducted. All women diagnosed with CSPs between the years 2011 and 2019 that were initially managed with systemic MTX were included. Single-dose MTX practiced in one medical center was compared to multiple-dose MTX, practiced in the other medical center. Results The study cohort included 31 women in the single dose and 32 women in the multiple-dose MTX groups. Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups. The primary outcome occurred in 12 (38.7%) of the cases in the single-dose group and in 6 (18.8%) in the multiple-dose group (p = 0.083). The rate of conversion to surgical treatment was similar in both groups (4 vs. 5 in the single vs. multiple-dose groups, respectively, p = 0.758). There was no significant difference between the single- and the multiple-dose groups in the administration of blood products (16.1% vs. 3.1%, respectively, p = 0.104), total days of admission (18 ± 9.3 vs. 17 ± 12.8 days, respectively, p = 0.850), and readmission rate (32.3% vs. 21.9%, respectively, p = 0.353). Data regarding sequential pregnancies were available for 11 women in the single and 13 women in the multiple-dose MTX groups. There were no differences between the groups in rates of term deliveries, CSP recurrence, and abortions. Conclusion Both single- and multiple-dose MTX treatment protocols offer high success rate with a relatively low complication rate in the treatment of CSP.