Development of the utero-placental circulation in cesarean scar pregnancies: a case-control study

BACKGROUND

Cesarean scar pregnancies carry a high risk of pregnancy complications including placenta previa with antepartum hemorrhage, placenta accreta spectrum, and uterine rupture.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the development of utero-placental circulation in the first half of pregnancy in ongoing cesarean scar pregnancies and compare it with pregnancies implanted in the lower uterine segment above a previous cesarean delivery scar with no evidence of placenta accreta spectrum at delivery STUDY DESIGN: This was a retrospective case-control study conducted in 2 tertiary referral centers. The study group included 27 women who were diagnosed with a live cesarean scar pregnancy in the first trimester of pregnancy and who elected to conservative management. The control group included 27 women diagnosed with an anterior low-lying placenta or placenta previa at 19 to 22 weeks of gestation who had first and early second trimester ultrasound examinations. In both groups, the first ultrasound examination was carried out at 6 to 10 weeks to establish the pregnancy location, viability, and to confirm the gestational age. The utero-placental and intraplacental vasculatures were examined using color Doppler imaging and were described semiquantitatively using a score of 1 to 4. The remaining myometrial thickness was recorded in the study group, whereas the ultrasound features of a previous cesarean delivery scar including the presence of a niche were noted in the controls. Both the cesarean scar pregnancies and the controls had ultrasound examinations at 11 to 14 and 19 to 22 weeks of gestation.

RESULTS

The mean color Doppler imaging vascularity score in the ultrasound examination at 6 to 10 weeks was significantly (P<.001) higher in the cesarean scar pregnancy group than in the controls. High vascularity scores of 3 and 4 were recorded in 20 of 27 (74%) cases of the cesarean scar pregnancy group. There was no vascularity score of 4, and only 3 of 27 (11%) controls had a vascularity score of 3. In 15 of the 27 (55.6%) cesarean scar pregnancies, the residual myometrial thickness was <2 mm. In the ultrasound examination at 11 to 14 weeks, there was no significant difference between the groups in the number of cases with an increased subplacental vascularity. However, 12 cesarean scar pregnancies (44%) presented with 1 or more placental lacunae whereas there was no case with lacunae in the controls. Of the 18 cesarean scar pregnancies that progressed into the third trimester, 10 of them were diagnosed with placenta previa accreta at birth, including 4 creta and 6 increta. In the 19 to 22 weeks ultrasound examination, 8 of the 10 placenta accreta spectrum patients presented with subplacental hypervascularity, out of which 6 showed placental lacunae.

CONCLUSION

The vascular changes in the utero-placental and intervillous circulations in cesarean scar pregnancies are due to the loss of the normal uterine structure in the scar area and the development of placental tissue in proximity of large diameter arteries of the outer uterine wall. The intensity of these vascular changes, the development of placenta accreta spectrum, and the risk of uterine rupture are probably related to the residual myometrial thickness of the scar defect at the start of pregnancy. A better understanding of the pathophysiology of the utero-placental vascular changes associated with cesarean scar pregnancies should help in identifying those cases that may develop major complications. It will contribute to providing counseling for women about the risks associated with different management strategies.

Uterine rupture in patients with a history of laparoscopy or hysteroscopy procedures: Three case reports

RATIONALE

Uterine rupture is a rare incidence but can lead to catastrophic maternal and fetal consequences. We still need to place a high premium on these cases.

PATIENT CONCERNS

The patients all showed hemodynamic shock with complaints of serious pain in the abdomen. They all had a history of laparoscopy or hysteroscopy procedures.

DIAGNOSES

Case 1 and 2 were diagnosed during surgery. Case 3 was diagnosed by an urgent abdominal ultrasonogram before surgery.

INTERVENTIONS

We performed emergency surgeries for the 3 cases.

OUTCOMES

Three patients all recovered well. But only the child in case 2 survived.

LESSONS

It must be emphasized that pregnant women with a history of such surgeries should be aware of uterine rupture during pregnancy.

[Asymptomatic spontaneous rupture of the uterus without previous sectio]

Rupture of the uterus is rare but catastrophic. Rupture often results in fetal bradycardia, abdominal pain, haemodynamic changes and vaginal bleeding. A 36-year-old healthy woman, gravida 3, para 1, went into spontaneous labour at gestation age 39 + 4, and at orificium 7 cm she received epidural analgesia. Following the epidural, the fetal heartbeat could not be registered by external cardiotocography, and caput could not be palpated. Spontaneous birth was attempted, but a caesarean section was necessary. The baby was found in the abdomen. Uterus was successfully contracted, thus preventing fatal bleeding. Asymptomatic rupture of the unscarred uterus is rare and difficult to diagnose.

Spontaneous Uterine Rupture Due to Placenta Percreta in a 17-Week Twin Pregnancy

Spontaneous rupture of previous uterine scar due to placenta percreta in early second trimester is a very rare and serious complication. A27-year fourth gravida, second para with previous two lower segment caesarean sections, presented at 17-week of twin pregnancy with acute abdominal pain. Ultrasonograghy revealed 17-week diamniotic-dichorionic twin pregnancy with alive fetuses. The placenta of the first twin was anterior, low lying covering the internal os and penetrating through the entire thickness of the lower uterine wall laterally. Significant hemoperitoneum was seen. Emergency laparotomy showed rupture of previous uterine scar with placenta percreta bleeding actively. Atransverse fundal incision was given to deliver the twins and total abdominal hysterectomy with preservation of both ovaries was performed. The patient was discharged on fourth postoperative day without any complication. Histopathology of specimen of the uterus confirmed placenta percreta to be the cause of uterine rupture.

Uterine Rupture in a Common Marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)

A 5-y-old multiparous female common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus) presented with acute weight loss of approximately 25% over a 1-wk period. An abdominal mass was apparent on physical examination, and radiographs suggested peritoneal effusion. Exploratory laparotomy revealed hemoperitoneum and an enlarged, gray, hemorrhaging uterus; ovariohysterectomy was performed, and the marmoset recovered. Histologic evaluation of the ovaries and uterus revealed uterine rupture, with invasion of placental villi lined by trophoblasts through the myometrium to the serosal layer. Primary uterine rupture is a rare but serious obstetric event in humans and has been reported only rarely in NHP. This report is the first description of primary uterine rupture during early pregnancy in a common marmoset.

UTERINE RUPTURE FOLLOWING MYOMECTOMY IN THIRD TRIMESTER

Rupture of gravid uterus is surgical emergency causing maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The risk of uterine rupture is associated with uterine scars caused by previous cesarean section, myomectomy, hysteroscopic procedures, and curettage. We report a case of a 40-year-old woman in 31st week of gestation with spontaneous uterine rupture. It was her third pregnancy. She had two healthy children from previous pregnancies. Her symptoms were abdominal pain, vomiting and pain in the right shoulder lasting for 12 hours prior to admission. Ultrasound examination at admission revealed a dead fetus in the abdomen and free fluid in the abdominal cavity. She had previously undergone laparoscopic myomectomy. After myomectomy, she had one successful vaginal delivery. Every abdominal pain in pregnant woman with uterine scar should be carefully and promptly examined to exclude uterine rupture before further diagnostic procedures. This early time frame is essential for survival of the fetus and sometimes even of the mother. Uterine rupture represents indication for immediate cesarean section and it should be performed within 25 minutes of the first signs of uterine rupture. As shown in the case presented, one successful vaginal delivery after myomectomy is no guarantee for future pregnancies.

[Uterine rupture without preexisting caesarean section after perforation of the uterus during evacuation]

Uterine rupture is a serious complication, associated with perinatal and maternal morbidity and mortality. This case report describes uterine rupture in a patient who did not have any previous caesarean section. The patient had acute abdominal pain, hypertonic uterus, blood in the amniotic fluid and abnormal cardiotocographic values. An abruption of the placenta was suspected, and an acute caesarean section was performed during which a rupture in fundus uteri was found. It was later experienced that the patient ten years earlier had suffered a uterine perforation during evacuation after a late abortion.

Sonographic measurement of lower uterine segment thickness to predict uterine rupture during a trial of labor in women with previous Cesarean section: a meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the accuracy of antenatal sonographic measurement of lower uterine segment (LUS) thickness in the prediction of risk of uterine rupture during a trial of labor (TOL) in women with a previous Cesarean section (CS).

METHODS

PubMed and EMBASE were searched to identify articles published on the subject of sonographic LUS measurement and occurrence of a uterine defect after delivery. Four independent researchers performed identification of papers and data extraction. Selected studies were scored on methodological quality, and sensitivity and specificity of measurement of LUS thickness in the prediction of a uterine defect were calculated. We performed bivariate meta-analysis to estimate summary receiver-operating characteristics (sROC) curves.

RESULTS

We included 21 studies with a total of 2776 analyzed patients. The quality of included studies was good, although comparison was difficult because of heterogeneity. The estimated sROC curves showed that measurement of LUS thickness seems promising in the prediction of occurrence of uterine defects (dehiscence and rupture) in the uterine wall. The pooled sensitivity and specificity of myometrial LUS thickness for cut-offs between 0.6 and 2.0 mm was 0.76 (95% CI, 0.60-0.87) and 0.92 (95% CI, 0.82-0.97); cut-offs between 2.1 and 4.0 mm reached a sensitivity and specificity of 0.94 (95% CI, 0.81-0.98) and 0.64 (95% CI, 0.26-0.90). The pooled sensitivity and specificity of full LUS thickness for cut-offs between 2.0 and 3.0 mm was 0.61 (95% CI, 0.42-0.77) and 0.91 (95% CI, 0.80-0.96); cut-offs between 3.1 and 5.1 mm reached a sensitivity and specificity of 0.96 (95% CI, 0.89-0.98) and 0.63 (95% CI, 0.30-0.87).

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis provides support for the use of antenatal LUS measurements in the prediction of a uterine defect during TOL. Clinical applicability should be assessed in prospective observational studies using a standardized method of measurement.

Changes in Cesarean section scar dimensions during pregnancy: a prospective longitudinal study

OBJECTIVES

To describe changes in Cesarean section (CS) scars longitudinally throughout pregnancy, and to relate initial scar measurements, demographic variables and obstetric variables to subsequent changes in scar features and to final pregnancy outcome.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study we used transvaginal sonography (TVS) to examine the CS scar of 320 consecutive pregnant women at 11-13, 19-21 and 32-34 weeks' gestation. For scars visible on TVS, the hypoechoic part was measured in three dimensions and the residual myometrial thickness (RMT) was also measured. Analyses were carried out using one-way repeated measures ANOVA and mixed modeling. The incidence of subsequent scar rupture was recorded.

RESULTS

The CS scar was visible in 284/320 cases (89%). Concerning length and depth of the hypoechoic part of the scar and RMT, the larger the initial scar measurement, the larger the decrease observed during pregnancy. For the hypoechoic part of the scar, the width increased on average by 1.8 mm per trimester, while the depth and length decreased by 1.8 and 1.9 mm, respectively (false discovery rate P < 0.0001). Mean RMT in the first trimester was 5.2 mm and on average decreased by 1.1 mm per trimester. Two cases (0.62%) of uterine scar rupture were confirmed following a trial of vaginal delivery; these had a mean RMT of 0.5 mm at second scan and an average decrease of 2.6 mm over the course of pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

This study establishes reference data and confirms that the dimensions of CS scars change throughout pregnancy. Scar rupture was associated with a smaller RMT and greater decrease in RMT during pregnancy. There is the potential to test absolute values and observed changes in CS scar measurements as predictors of uterine scar rupture and outcome in trials of vaginal birth after Cesarean section.

Spontaneous rupture of unscarred uterus in the early second trimester: a case report of placenta percreta

BACKGROUND

Prevalence of uterine rupture at delivery has been recently estimated at less than 1 in 2500 deliveries. Spontaneous uterine rupture in the early mid-trimester (16 weeks gestation or less), is far less frequent. We report a case of uterine rupture due to placenta percreta in otherwise uncomplicated pregnancy

CASE

A 35-year-old, gravida 5, para 5, at 15wk 2d gestation (menstrual age) with negative history of uterine scarring suddenly developed symptoms of incipient hypovolemic shock while being hospitalized for imminent miscarriage. On exploratory laparotomy we found a midline uterine rupture infiltrated by the placenta. Supracervical hysterectomy was performed. Postoperative lab analysis confirmed the elevated serum AFP levels.

CONCLUSION

Abnormal placentation and subsequent uterine rupture should be taken into consideration also in women in the second trimester who have no history of uterine instrumentation.

[Uterine rupture superficial externum--a case report]

The article presents a case of external superficial rupture of the uterus--along the left lateral margin--with ruptured posterior lamina of the broad uterine ligament. The complication developed in a 29-year-old patient--following delivery from breech fetal presentation with footling, in 41 hbd, 4th delivery. The patient had no history of any uterine operations, reported no injury to the uterus or inflammations of her sex organs. The symptoms of bleeding into the abdominal cavity and hypovolemic shock developed during early postpartum period. The operation was performed on an emergency basis: postpartum hysterectomy without adnexa was performed. Postoperative course was complicated, the patient developed superficial thrombophlebitis in the left leg. The patient and her healthy baby were released home on 24th day following the delivery and operation.

[Spontaneous uterine rupture in third trimester twin ivf pregnancy following myomectomy]

Uterine rupture is one of the most serious complications of pregnancy, causing maternal and perinatal death. An increased risk of uterine rupture is associated with uterine scars caused by previous cesarean section, myomectomy, hysteroscopic procedures and ART treatment. We report a case of 35-year-old nulliparous woman with a twin pregnancy who experienced a spontaneous uterine rupture at 30 weeks' gestation. She had a previous history of one opened myomectomy, two laporoscopic procedures for extrauterine pregnancy and myomectomy in the left uterine corn. Her pregnancy was established with in vitro fertilization 14 months after the laparoscopic myomectomy. The uterine rupture was heralded by a sudden onset of severe abdominal pain while she was having a routine exam. This case reinforces that pregnancy after myomectomy should be closely monitored with respect to uterine rupture.

[Life threatening postpartal haemorrhage after rupture of the vagina, uterine cervix, caesarean section or hysterectomy]

The authors discuss 10 cases--seven after vaginal and cervical rupture, 2 after Caesarean section and 1 after hysterectomy. Six of them died--5 after rupture of the vagina and cervix and one after Caesarean section. The lethal issue was avoidable in all cases because it was a result of untimely done or not done at all hysterectomy and other interventions, e.g., ligation of the hypogastric arteries, as well as of faulty surgical performance. Basic principles of surgical behavior in such cases are postulated.

Posterior uterine rupture in a woman with a previous Cesarean delivery

A 33-year-old primipara with a previous low transverse Cesarean delivery underwent labor induction at 41 weeks' gestation with a 10-mg dinoprostone vaginal insert. Eleven hours later, with the cervix fully dilated, an emergency Cesarean delivery was performed because of repetitive variable decelerations followed by fetal bradycardia. A posterior uterine wall rupture extending from the fundus to the vagina was repaired in layers. The neonate had an Apgar score of 2 and 4 and expired on the 7th day of life.

Rupture of uterine scar 3 weeks after vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC)

Uterine scar rupture in vaginal birth after cesarean section (VBAC) usually occurs during labor or after placental extraction. We report herein the case of a patient who had a cesarean section in her first pregnancy and a VBAC in her second. The present one also ended with a normal VBAC and a documented intact scar, which then ruptured three weeks later.

Ruptured cornual pregnancy: case report

Cornual pregnancy is uncommon among ectopic pregnancies. A diagnosis of cornual pregnancy remains challenging, and rupture of a cornual pregnancy causes catastrophic consequence due to massive bleeding. We report a case of a ruptured cornual pregnancy occurring at 12 weeks of gestation. A 34-year-old woman was suspected of having a left cornual pregnancy at 11 weeks of gestation. Transabdominal ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging revealed an eccentric localization of a gestational sac containing a viable fetus outside the uterine cavity adjacent to the left uterine cornua. The gestational sac was surrounded with a thin myometrial layer. The patient developed a rupture of the left cornual pregnancy with unstable hemodynamics. She underwent emergency laparotomy, which revealed the ruptured left cornual pregnancy with a hemoperitoneum. Cornual resection was performed. The pathological examination confirmed a ruptured cornual pregnancy.

Vesicovaginal fistula at tertiary care center in eastern Nepal

Vesicovaginal fistula is physically, socially and psychologically devastating to the women who suffer from it. The aim of this study is to create some awareness about VVF, to describe the profile of the patients, etiology, and success rate of surgery in our institute. A retrospective analysis of a total of 23 cases of vesicovaginal fistula admitted to the Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, BPKIHS over a period of three years were included in the study. The cause of VVF in all was obstructed labor except in one, which followed abdominal hysterectomy. Twenty-three subjects underwent VVF repair, of which 14 (56.5%) had successful outcome.

Retained fetal parts after elective second-trimester dilation and evacuation

BACKGROUND

Extrusion of fetal parts into the abdomen after second-trimester pregnancy termination is rare.

CASE

We report a case of extrusion of fetal parts into the broad ligament at the time of second-trimester pregnancy termination that remained undetected for 10 days.

CONCLUSION

In cases of perforation during second-trimester pregnancy termination, meticulous evaluation of the abdomen and pelvis with ultrasonography or computerized tomography should be performed if complete fetal evacuation cannot be confirmed.

Rupture of rudimentary uterine horn pregnancy at 37 weeks gestation with fetal survival

Pregnancy in rudimentary uterine horn is rare and associated with maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity. This patient presented with unexplained abdominal pain antenataly. Laparotomy for suspected abruption at 37 weeks revealed ruptured rudimentary horn with placenta accreta. A subtotal hemihysterectomy was performed. The result was fetal salvage in good condition.

Placenta percreta with subsequent uterine rupture at 15 weeks of gestation after two previous cesarean sections

A 25-year-old gravida 3 para 2 woman was referred to our hospital at 15 weeks' gestation with an acute abdomen and free fluid in the peritoneal cavity. On admission she was somnolent. She had a history of two cesarean sections. Fetal cardiac activity was detectable by ultrasound preoperatively. Intraoperatively, a lower uterine-segment rupture was identified in the area of the presumed prior uterine incision. The great blood loss with consecutive coagulopathy required an emergency hysterectomy and multiple blood transfusions. The placenta was located on the lower anterior uterine wall. Intervening decidual cells between placenta and maternal scar tissue were absent in the area of the prior uterine incision. Placental villous tissue deeply invaded and perforated the scar tissue. Histological examination revealed a placenta percreta. Placenta percreta with subsequent uterine rupture is a rare but dramatic complication after previous cesarean section. This should be kept in mind as the rate of elective cesarean sections is rising continuously. Our patient recovered completely.

Twin intrauterine and cornual gestation in a case of triplet pregnancy

Ectopic implantation with in-vitro fertilization-embryo transfer may occur in the cornu or tubal stump, which is otherwise rare. Our patient with previous left salpingostomy and right salpingo-oophorectomy had 4 embryos transferred through in vitro fertilization out of which 3 were successfully implanted with twin intrauterine gestation and cornual pregnancy. The cornual pregnancy ruptured at 12 weeks of gestation and the twin intrauterine pregnancy had a successful outcome.

Abdominal pregnancies in farm rabbits

Abdominal pregnancy is defined as the implantation and development of a fertilized ovum or a embryo in the peritoneal cavity. Although this has been reported in several species, it is considered as a low incidence process. It is classified as a primary abdominal pregnancy, if there is no evidence of uterine rupture, with presumed regurgitation of early embryos from the uterine tube and as a secondary abdominal pregnancy, when there is evidence of uterine rupture. During a necropsy study of 550 adult fertile female New Zealand white rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) from two rabbit farms in Valencia (Spain), the main causes of elimination were studied. Twenty-eight abdominal pregnancies were diagnosed. Seven animals showed no lesions in their reproductive tract. The remaining twenty one animals showed acute or chronic lesions in the reproductive tract. The classification as a primary or secondary condition is discussed. It may be concluded therefore that extrauterine pregnancies would not be such an unusual finding in rabbits, and that this premise should be considered in the diagnostic approach when assessing rabbit doe pathology. New husbandry systems in rabbits such as artificial insemination are factors to be considered.

MR Imaging of Maternal Diseases of the Abdomen and Pelvis during Pregnancy and the Immediate Postpartum Period

Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging provides multiplanar large field-of-view images of the body with excellent soft-tissue contrast and without ionizing radiation. As a result, MR imaging is increasingly being used to image the maternal abdomen and pelvis during and immediately after pregnancy. Results of rapid T1- and T2-weighted imaging are often diagnostic, and blood vessels, ductal structures, and the urinary tract can frequently be visualized without intravenous administration of contrast material. Until more conclusive safety data become available, MR imaging should be reserved for cases in which results of ultrasonography are inconclusive and patient care depends on further imaging. In the setting of acute abdomen during pregnancy, MR imaging allows identification of areas of inflammation, abscess formation, hemorrhage, and bowel obstruction. MR imaging also helps determine the organ of origin, extent, and composition of maternal neoplasms and is useful in evaluation of müllerian duct anomalies and abnormalities of placental formation, position, and implantation. Many postpartum complications such as retained products of conception and uterine dehiscence may be diagnosed with MR imaging when results of other modalities are indeterminate.

First-trimester uterine rupture from a placenta percreta. A case report

BACKGROUND

Cesarean scar pregnancy complicated by placenta percreta and uterine rupture is an uncommon gynecologic emergency.

CASE

A woman presenting with abdominal pain and shock was found to have a cesarean scar pregnancy complicated by placenta percreta and uterine rupture.

CONCLUSION

Implantation within a cesarean scar may cause placenta percreta, leading to uterine rupture in the first trimester and mimicking other gynecologic emergencies.

[Uterine rupture in the maternity ward of the Bangui Community Hospital (Central Africa)]

Although now uncommon in developed countries, uterine rupture is among the major obstetrical emergencies dealt on a daily bases in the maternity ward of the Bangui Community Hospital in Central African Republic, which is the national reference facility. Uterine rupture is life-threatening for both the fetus and mother. In view of the relatively high rate of rupture observed in our department in previous years, this cross-sectional study was undertaken in order to determine incidence, identify predisposing factors, evaluate prognosis for the mother and newborn, and propose solutions. From January 1997 to December 1997, all deliveries by the vaginal route or cesarean section including cases involving uterine rupture were recorded. The length of time elapsed between the decision to perform cesarean section and actual performance of the procedure was determined. Risk factors associated with uterine rupture in our department were noted. The outcome of uterine rupture was evaluated in both the mother and fetus. Of a total of 5763 deliveries during the study period, 299 required cesarean section (5.9%). Uterine rupture occurred in 35 cases of the 299 women (11.7%). In 10 cases of uterine rupture, the time lapse for performance of cesarean section was at least 2 hours. The main cause of delay was the lack of funding for cesarean section. Six women died due to irreversible shock (0.1% of deliveries, 2% of cesarean sections and 17.1% of uterine ruptures). The perinatal mortality rate was 80%. In our department, uterine rupture is a common emergency causing high mortality in mothers and newborns. Most of these patients could have been saved.

Uterine rupture in an unscarred uterus after application of fundal pressure. A case report

BACKGROUND

Rupture of an unscarred uterus is rare, with a reported incidence of 1 in 8,000-15,000 pregnancies. We report a case occurring during labor.

CASE

A 33-year-old woman, gravida 3, para 0, abortion 2, was admitted at 40 weeks' gestation with ruptured membranes. Fundal pressure was applied during delivery due to maternal exhaustion. Uterine rupture was diagnosed from palpation of the fetal extremities coupled with a decreased fetal heartbeat. A 6-cm transverse laceration was discovered over the lower uterine segment during emergency cesarean section. The uterus was sutured. There were no further complications, and the postoperative course was uneventful.

CONCLUSION

Spontaneous rupture of the unscarred uterus during labor is rare, with only one case recorded at our institution over a 10-year period. Risk factors include weakness of the uterine muscle and the application of fundal pressure. Early detection and immediate surgical intervention are the mainstays of management.

Rupture of rudimentary horn pregnancy at the 15th week of gestation: a case report

A patient with acute abdomen at 15th week of gestation underwent an emergency laparatomy. A ruptured rudimentary horn pregnancy was diagnosed, and the rudimentary part including the fetus and the accessories was resected. The mother survived without any complications.

Unscarred uterine rupture after induction of labor with misoprostol: a case report

The rupture of an unscarred uterus is very rare and presents an emergency situation that threatens the life of the fetus and mother. The agents used for induction of labor, like oxytocin and/or prostaglandins, can be responsible for this catastrophic event. We report a case of intrapartum rupture of an intact uterus after using intravaginal misoprostol for cervical ripening and labor induction in a term pregnancy and we discuss the other cases reported in the literature.

[Uterine rupture: report of 41 cases]

To establish the epidemiological profile, of patients who presented a uterine rupture, as well as the obstetrical follow up, the neonatal outcome and the prognosis factors. A retrospective study of 41 cases of uterine rupture treated in the maternity center of Tunis during a 5-year period. The frequency of uterine rupture was 1.38%@1000 of births. Rupture in scarred uterus was found in 58.5% of the cases against 41.5% in sain uterus. Three risk factors were statistically significant in our series: cesarian section, multiparity and high fetal weight. Uterine rupture is a medico-surgical emergency causing materno-fetal morbidity and mortality.

Placenta percreta with spontaneous rupture of an unscarred uterus in the second trimester

BACKGROUND

Rupture of a pregnant uterus occurs most often in a scarred uterus, and spontaneous rupture of a non-scarred uterus in the early second trimester is rare.

CASE

A woman with two previous normal vaginal deliveries and no prior trauma to the uterus presented at 16 weeks' gestation with an acute abdomen due to intraperitoneal hemorrhage. A large rupture of the fundus of the uterus was found. A supracervical hysterectomy was carried out, with subsequent good recovery. The specimen showed placenta percreta.

CONCLUSION

Spontaneous rupture of an unscarred uterus, due to placenta percreta, should be considered in cases of acute intraperitoneal hemorrhage, even in early pregnancy.

A hypothesis to explain the occurence of inner myometrial laceration causing massive postpartum hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Inner myometrial lacerations were found in three patients who developed uncontrollable postpartum massive bleeding despite the usual treatment for uterine atony. Because all the patients suffered from hemorrhage shock and their medical status deteriorated, their uteri were surgically removed to stop bleeding. After removal, one of them died. Postpartum hemorrhage was caused by inner myometrial laceration. We hypothesized a cause of inner myometrial laceration, using the three resected uteri, an assumed model of the uterine body, and 34 women.

METHODS

The subjects were 37 women, of whom three were patients with inner myometrial laceration, 23 were women without inner myometrial laceration who underwent cesarean section, and 11 were women in the first stage of labor. The three resected uteri were examined both macroscopically and microscopically. We measured the thickness of the wall of the uterine muscle at the widest point of the uterine corpus and the thickness of the myometrial wall at a transverse section of the uterine cervix, as well as the radius of the inner lumen at the widest point of the uterus in 23 women during cesarean section. We also measured the thickness of the myometrial wall at the widest point of the uterine corpus in 11 women at the end of the first stage of labor during ultrasonic examination. The data were then used to estimate the stress on the uterine muscle.

RESULTS

The stress on the uterine cervix was stronger than that on the uterine corpus during labor. When the stress on the uterine muscle is stronger than a specific value, inner myometrial lacerations develop on the right and/or left side of the uterine cervix. These lacerations may involve large vessels.

CONCLUSIONS

We have discovered another cause of postpartum hemorrhage which we have named inner myometrial laceration. These lacerations appeared to result from a strong stress on the uterine cervix caused by an abnormal rise in intrauterine pressure during labor.

Spontaneous uterine rupture in the early third trimester after laparoscopically assisted myomectomy. A case report

BACKGROUND

The development of new and innovative laparoscopic instruments has allowed a greater number of gynecologic surgeons to laparoscopically remove large, intramural leiomyomata. Cases of both successful pregnancy and uterine rupture following laparoscopic myomectomy have been reported. This is the first report of uterine rupture in pregnancy following a laparoscopically assisted myomectomy.

CASE

A 26-year-old, nulligravid woman underwent a laparoscopically assisted myomectomy. While the myomectomy had been performed laparoscopically, the uterine incision had been repaired in layers through a minilaparotomy incision. Two years later she became pregnant and, at 29 weeks' gestation, presented to labor and delivery with contractions and uterine tenderness. Over the next several hours, a nonreassuring fetal heart rate developed, and a cesarean section was performed, revealing hemoperitoneum and uterine rupture at the site of the prior myomectomy.

CONCLUSION

The ultimate integrity of a uterine incision may depend not only on how the incision is repaired but also on how it is made. Laparoscopically created uterine incisions may not be as strong as those made at laparotomy, regardless of the method of closure.

Primary repair of cornual rupture occurring at 21 weeks gestation and successful pregnancy outcome

The successful delivery in a 31 year old woman at 33 weeks gestation is reported, after repair to a cornual rupture which occurred at 21 weeks gestation. The patient exhibited acute abdominal pain and pending shock. Emergency laparotomy showed a cornual rupture and an intrauterine vital fetus having intact amnion membrane. On the patient's family's insistence, primary repair for a cornual rupture was performed and preservation of the fetus attempted. Postoperatively, tocolytic agent with ritodrine hydrochloride was administered and close follow-up of the patient was uneventful. The patient had a smooth obstetric course until 33 weeks gestation when premature rupture of the membranes occurred, soon followed by the onset of labour. She underwent an elective Caesarean section and delivered a normal male fetus weighing 2140 g with Apgar scores at 1, 5 and 10 min of 6, 8, and 9 respectively. Because of this successful outcome, we suggest that primary repair for such an unusual patient should be accepted.

Delayed postpartum uterine dehiscence. A case report

BACKGROUND

Delayed postpartum uterine dehiscence with hemorrhagic shock may be caused by inadequate treatment of postpartum endomyometritis.

CASE

A woman developed a delayed uterine dehiscence six weeks postpartum. Inadequate antibiotic treatment for postpartum endomyometritis was thought to be the etiology. The patient required a hysterectomy for definitive treatment because of associated hemorrhagic shock.

CONCLUSION

Only one other case of uterine dehiscence that resulted from endomyometritis has been reported. Broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy is indicated in postpartum endomyometritis to avoid uterine dehiscence with hemorrhagic shock.

Spontaneous rupture of the uterus caused by placenta percreta at 28 weeks of gestation: a case report

Placenta percreta is a rare complication of pregnancy. Rupture of the uterus due to placenta percreta is one of the most urgent obstetrical catastrophes. Recently, we observed a patient who developed placenta percreta accompanied by spontaneous uterine rupture at 28 weeks of gestation. A 29-year old gravida 3, para 1, who had a history of one cesarean section and one miscarriage with dilatation and curetage, was seen at 28 weeks of gestation. An acute abdomen and shock were diagnosed. Immediate laparotomy revealed a transverse rupture on the fundus of the uterus. A hysterectomy was performed. Pathological examination of the uterus showed placenta percreta. Rupture of the uterus due to placenta percreta before the onset of labor is extremely rare.

Spontaneous uterine rupture at thirty-three weeks subsequent to previous superficial laparoscopic myomectomy

Obstetric uterine rupture has previously been reported after the laparoscopic removal of deep intramural myomas, but never has it been reported to follow the removal of superficial myomas. A 39-year-old primigravid woman with a history of a superficial subserous laparoscopic myomectomy was seen for acute abdominal symptoms at 33 weeks of gestation. Emergency cesarean laparotomy confirmed a spontaneous rupture of the uterine fundus with extrusion of the intact fetal sac into the upper abdomen. This is the first reported case of obstetric uterine rupture subsequent to the removal of a superficial myoma by laparoscopic techniques.

Spontaneous rupture of the uterus due to placenta percreta at 25-weeks' gestation: a case report

Placenta percreta is a rare but serious complication of pregnancy, and is rarely diagnosed in the second trimester of pregnancy. We report a very rare case of placenta percreta accompanied by spontaneous uterine rupture at 25-weeks of gestation. A 30-year-old woman with severe abdominal pain was admitted to our hospital at 25 weeks of gestation. A laparotomy was immediately performed because of intraabdominal bleeding. The uterus revealed a perforation of the fundus. A supra-vaginal hysterectomy was performed. A pathological investigation of the uterus revealed placenta percreta. The patient had neither gravity nor any prior uterine operation. It is very rare for placenta percreta to be recognized in a primigravida woman or in the second trimester of pregnancy.

[Pelviscopic myoma enucleation: technique, limits, complications]

Between 1992 and 1993 surgery conserving the organ was undertaken in 215 patients with uterine myomas. Only myomas of more than 2 cm in diameter were included. It was possible to conserve the organ in 207 cases (90%). Myomectomy by pelviscopy was performed in 131 cases. The procedure was successful in 117 cases (89%), secondary laparotomy had to be done in 14 of these patients. On average the myomas removed by pelviscopy measured 5.2 cm in diameter. The S.E.M.M. (Serrated Edged Macro Morcellator) was used in the procedure. It did not take long to morecellate even larger myomas (the largest one removed by pelviscopy weighed 418 g) and to remove them by means of a 15 mm-trocar. An average of 2 myomas were removed per patient (r: 1-5). The mean Hb drop amounted to 1.5 g%. Repeat pelviscopy had to be done in one patient because of a secondary haemorrhage, a laparotomy and hysterectomy for subilius had to be performed in one case on the 3rd postoperative day. An intestinal loop has adhered to the uterine wound dehiscence. No other complications were observed after pelviscopic myomectomy. A 41-year-old patient wanting children suffered a late complication, namely a ruptured uterus in the 28 w of pregnancy. It is therefore imperative to inform patients who are still in the reproductive phase about the possibility of an uterus rupture after pelviscopic myomectomy.

[Uterine rupture in the 22nd week of pregnancy in placenta percreta]

The placenta percreta is a rare event in pregnancy. A case of spontaneous rupture of the uterus in the 22nd week caused by placenta percreta (verified by histological examination) is described. Causal facts and therapeutic aspects are discussed.