Shock caused by spontaneous rupture uterine vessels during puerperal period: a case report and literature review

H.F. Wang, S.R. Rong, A.H. Zhang, A.L. Yang, Q. Liang

Tianjin Third Central Hospital, Obstetrics & Gynecology Department, Hedong District, China; Technology Research Central of Public Health Ministry, Tianjin, China. whf16418@163.com

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• Obstetrics

Hemoperitoneum caused by spontaneous rupture of uterine vessels during delivery is relatively rare in obstetric hemorrhage, and even rarer during the puerperal period. It can be life-threatening without timely diagnosis and treatment; therefore, the literature on this topic is very scarce. To explore its etiology and identify its diagnosis and treatment principle, we are reporting a case of shock caused by spontaneous rupture of uterine vessels admitted in our hospital. Its etiology is still unknown, its presenting symptoms are commonly unspecific, and its diagnosis is often made during the surgery. The rupture of uterine vessels during pregnancy should be differentiated from placental abruption, uterine rupture, placenta implantation through the uterus, and abdominal organ rupture. Active and timely operative intervention can prevent the mortality. This case stresses the need for careful post-delivery monitoring for revealed postpartum hemorrhage. We will discuss possible etiologies of uterine vessels rupture during pregnancy, associated imaging findings, and management options.

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