Intrapartum rupture of the uterus diagnosed by ultrasound.

BACKGROUND Spontaneous uterine rupture is a life threatening obstetrical emergency encountered infrequently in the emergency department. Its diagnosis is often missed or delayed, leading to maternal and fetal mortality. METHOD We present a case of ruptured uterus diagnosed by ultrasound in a 33-year-old gravid female with two previous cesarean sections. OBJECTIVE To show the role of ultrasound in uterine rupture RESULT Ultrasound demonstrates uterine laceration and intra-abdominal dislocation of placenta and foetus CONCLUSION Because of the severity of the complication and the great variation of symptoms in connection with it, the authors encourage the use of ultrasound screening in the detection of this rare, but often catastrophic complication.