Vulvovaginal hematomas complicating delivery. Rationale for drainage of the hematoma cavity

To review the management of puerperal vulvovaginal hematomas and report on the use of closed system drainage in cases in which operative intervention was used.

A retrospective review of medical records for a five-year period was conducted. The charts of all patients in whom puerperal vulvovaginal hematomas occurred were reviewed and data extracted regarding possible etiologic factors, details of delivery, characterization of the hematoma, surgical intervention and type of drain used. Also recorded was length of stay and postoperative complications.

Eleven patients with hematomas were identified, for an incidence of 1/526. All patients received antibiotics; transfusion was required in eight patients. Drains were used in nine patients: Penrose in four and closed system drainage in five. All drains were brought through a separate site distant from the repair. There was one postoperative abscess, which resolved with wound care, resulting in no long-term morbidity.

Puerperal vulvovaginal hematomas may be a life-threatening event. Review of the literature and our experience suggests that aggressive operative management and the use of drains are beneficial in the management of these patients. Closed system drainage may be an effective adjunct in the management of vulvovaginal hematomas.