# Near Miss Ruptured Ectopic Pregnancies: A Case Series of Diagnosis With Point-of-Care Ultrasound and an Independent Review of Radiology Images

## TL;DR

Emergency physicians using point-of-care ultrasound helped diagnose two ruptured ectopic pregnancies despite initial inconclusive radiology reports, emphasizing the importance of timely intervention.

## Contribution

Demonstrates the critical role of emergency physicians' independent ultrasound interpretation in diagnosing ruptured ectopic pregnancies.

## Key findings

- POCUS identified concerning findings in two cases of ruptured ectopic pregnancy.
- Emergency physicians' image reassessment led to urgent gynecologic intervention despite inconclusive radiology reports.
- Both patients had favorable outcomes after surgical confirmation and treatment.

## Abstract

First-trimester pregnancy complications are common in the emergency department, with ectopic pregnancy being the leading cause of maternal mortality in this period. Emergency physicians play a critical role in early diagnosis and management, with proficiency in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) being an essential skill. Even when comprehensive radiology ultrasound is also available, independent image review remains crucial to ensure that subtle findings are not missed in this timely diagnosis.

We present two cases of ruptured ectopic pregnancy initially evaluated in community emergency departments. Both cases involved lower abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, and positive pregnancy tests. In each instance, transabdominal POCUS performed during initial evaluation identified concerning findings, including adnexal masses with complex echogenicity and pelvic free fluid. Despite comprehensive radiology ultrasound interpretations not confirming ectopic pregnancy, the emergency physician’s reassessment of imaging raised concern for rupture, prompting urgent gynecologic intervention. Surgical exploration confirmed ruptured ectopic pregnancy in both cases, requiring operative management. Both patients had favorable postoperative outcomes.

Ectopic pregnancy remains a high-risk condition necessitating thorough evaluation. These cases highlight the crucial role of POCUS and independent ultrasound interpretation by emergency physicians in preventing diagnostic delays. Recognizing subtle imaging findings, especially in cases where radiology interpretations are inconclusive, is critical for timely intervention. Emergency physicians should maintain a high index of suspicion and collaborate with gynecology and radiology colleagues to optimize patient outcomes.