Uterine rupture; case report and review of literature

Uterine rupture is an obstetric catastrophe that is associated with high maternal and perinatal mortality rates. Its incidence is high in developing countries. Uterine rupture may be silent and obscure but requires immediate surgical intervention and its occurrence can result in severe maternal morbidity. We report a case of G4P3+0 with previous traumatic rupture uterus presented in labor at 32 weeks and found in caesarean section to be ruptured fundus of the uterus with active bleeding. Baby delivered alive, and uterus repaired. Most cases of ruptured uterus are preventable with good antenatal care, intra-partum care and proper identification of high risk cases. Thinning in the lower uterine segment measured by ultrasonography is a predictor of uterine rupture but, ideal thickness cut-off value could not be defined. We recommend; use of partogram as tool in recognising deviations from normal, prevention of unnecessary cesarean sections, facilitating early referral and continued education of staff in order to prevent uterine rupture.