Spontaneous Rupture of a Non-scarring Gravid Uterus: A Late and Haphazard Diagnosis in the Postpartum Period

TL;DR

A rare case of a healthy pregnant uterus rupturing after childbirth is reported, highlighting its dangerous nature and diagnostic challenges.

Contribution

The paper presents a rare case of non-scarring gravid uterine rupture and updates understanding of its clinical and radiological features.

Findings

Spontaneous rupture can occur in a non-scarring gravid uterus post-vaginal delivery.

Uterine rupture is often linked to structural abnormalities or uterine fragility due to infection.

Ultrasound and CT scans are critical for diagnosing the rupture and assessing damage.

Abstract

This paper reports the case of a spontaneous rupture of a non-scarring gravid uterus seen four days after vaginal delivery and provides an update on this rare pathology, which can be functionally and vitally life-threatening. Uterine rupture of a healthy gravid uterus can occur as a result of structural abnormalities of the uterine tissue framework or uterine parietal fragility due to pathological phenomena such as septic states. On admission, the clinical picture is generally that of an acute abdomen with a hypogastric origin, with or without hemodynamic instability and an altered general condition, depending on the presence of an underlying advanced uterine infection. Medical imaging, mainly ultrasound and CT scan with iodine contrast, enables visualization of the uterine breach and a precise assessment of the damage. Surgery is the treatment of choice for repairing the breach and ensuring hemostasis. This case study sheds light on this pathology, familiarizing us with its clinical and radiological picture, as well as its post-treatment prognosis.

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