Second trimester rupture uterus, unusual presentation

Spontaneous uterine rupture before onset of labour is extremely rare. This is even more so in the second trimester of pregnancy, in nulliparous women and in the absence of myometrial surgery. The initial presentation of this potentially catastrophic event may be non-specific, with upper or lower abdominal discomfort, vague gastrointestinal or urinary symptoms preceding rapid deterioration.

This case report demonstrates that a high index of suspicion, rapid diagnosis aided by imaging modalities and immediate surgical intervention are crucial steps in successful management. A postulated etiology in our patient is that of an upper scar from a previous uterine curettage with abnormal placentation predisposing to spontaneous rupture.

A case of spontaneous uterine rupture at 16 week's gestation in a multiparous, 32 year old patient with no history of myometrial surgery. She had presented with lower abdominal discomfort, progressing to severe pain with hypotension and tachycardia. An urgent ultrasound pelvis showed a live fetus, free intra-peritoneal fluid with blood clots. An emergency laparotomy performed revealed 2 L of hemoperitoneum, with the fetus intact in the amniotic sac. The uterine fundal rupture was successfully repaired.

Despite the gestation, in women presenting with symptoms and signs suggestive of acute abdomen and hemodynamic instability, prompt resuscitation must be instituted, and a high index of suspicion for rupture must be suspected.