Spontaneous Rupture of an Ovarian Artery Aneurysm in the Early Postpartum Period: A Case Report

Luke Speier1, Trevor Ward1, Jeffrey Bednar1

  • 1College of Osteopathic Medicine, Touro University Nevada, Henderson, USA.

Cureus
|August 22, 2024
PubMed

The spontaneous rupture of an ovarian artery aneurysm (OAA) is an extremely uncommon and life-threatening event. Here, we describe the case of a 34-year-old G6P5015 female who underwent spontaneous vaginal delivery. Following delivery, she experienced hypotension and reported right-sided abdominal pain. A contrast-enhanced computed tomography (CT) angiogram revealed an aneurysmal dilation, extravasation, pseudoaneurysms, and a large retroperitoneal hematoma attributable to a rupture of the right ovarian artery. Subsequently, an exploratory laparotomy was performed, and then a transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) by interventional radiology (IR). At a proximal site, IR successfully embolized both the ovarian and uterine arteries. This case highlights the significance of rapid intervention in managing an OAA. Additionally, we discuss the risk factors and treatment alternatives for OAA, underscoring the importance of considering it in the differential diagnosis when encountering atypical hypotension in the postpartum period.

Related Concept Videos

Ovarian Cycle01:27

Ovarian Cycle

The menstrual cycle includes a critical component known as the ovarian cycle, which undergoes two main phases each month—the follicular phase and the luteal phase. The follicular phase is variable and averaging around 14 days. Ovulation, triggered by a surge in luteinizing hormone (LH), marks the transition between the two phases. The second phase, the luteal phase, is relatively consistent, lasting approximately 14 days, and is marked by the activity of the corpus luteum. While a cycle length...
Aneurysm I: Introduction01:30

Aneurysm I: Introduction

An aortic aneurysm is a localized outpouching or dilation at a weak point in the artery wall. It may involve different parts of the aorta, such as the abdominal aorta, aortic arch, or thoracic aorta.Etiological factorsSeveral disorders are associated with aortic aneurysms.Congenital causes, such as primary connective tissue disorders like Marfan syndrome, impact the integrity and strength of connective tissues, notably affecting the aorta. Marfan syndrome is a genetic disorder that specifically...
Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies01:21

Aneurysm II: Clinical Manifestations and Diagnostic Studies

Thoracic, aortic arch and abdominal aneurysms are significant vascular conditions that can present with various clinical manifestations and lead to serious complications. Understanding these manifestations and the appropriate diagnostic studies is essential for effective management and treatment.Thoracic Aortic AneurysmsThoracic aortic aneurysms often remain asymptomatic until they reach a size that impinges on adjacent structures. They typically cause deep, diffuse chest pain that radiates to...
Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care01:26

Aneurysm III: Interprofessional Care

Aneurysm management involves either conservative medical therapy or surgical intervention, depending on the size and symptoms of the aneurysm. Conservative management is generally reserved for smaller, asymptomatic aneurysms, while larger or symptomatic aneurysms often necessitate surgical repair.Conservative Medical TherapyFor small, asymptomatic aneurysms, particularly abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) less than 5.5 centimeters in diameter, conservative medical therapy is recommended. This...
Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management01:22

Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management

Vigilant monitoring for aneurysm rupture is essential for patients undergoing aortic surgery.Preoperative Nursing ManagementContinuously monitor the patient for manifestations of aneurysm rupture, such as pallor, weakness, tachycardia, hypotension, abdominal, back, groin, or periumbilical pain, changes in consciousness, and a pulsating abdominal mass. Regularly assess the patient's peripheral pulses.Instruct the patient to consume a clear liquid diet the day before surgery and administer...