Uterine rupture occurring during midtrimester abortion
Graham, D.
Obstetrics and Gynecology 59(6 Suppl): 62s-64s
1982
ISSN/ISBN: 0029-7844 PMID: 7088430 Document Number: 195173
Uterine rupture is an uncommon complication of midtrimester abortion, occurring more frequently in the older multiparous patient and with the use of high doses of oxytocic agents. The clinical presentation may vary from an unexplained drop in the hematocrit or persistent abdominal pain to profound shock and maternal death. There is often considerable delay in diagnosis and subsequent treatment. The clinical presentation of a patient who sustained uterine rupture during midtrimester abortion is described and the possible etiology, clinical presentation, and management of this condition are described. It is recommended that older multiparous patients receiving oxytocic agents be monitored closely to prevent uterine hyperstimulation and that prompt laparotomy be performed when the diagnosis of uterine rupture is made.