Ruptured uterus: sonographic diagnosis

Sonography was able to suggest a diagnosis of uterine rupture by demonstrating intra- or extraperitoneal hematoma in the correct clinical setting. A pelvic abscess complicating a uterine rupture was seen in one case. Previous uterine scar, use of prostaglandins for induction of labor, trauma with a currette, and cornual pregnancy were the implicated etiologic factors. Although the rupture site was never directly visualized by sonography, the combination of sonographic and clinical findings was strongly suggestive of the correct diagnosis.