Diagnosis and Management of Uterine Rupture in the Third Trimester of Pregnancy: A Case Series and Literature Review

Abstract

BACKGROUND:  Uterine rupture is associated with clinically significant uterine bleeding, fetal distress, expulsion or protrusion of the fetus, placenta or both into the abdominal cavity requiring prompt cesarean delivery and uterine repair or hysterectomy. Previous cesarean section is the most common risk factor. The most consistent early indicator of it is the onset of prolonged and profound fetal bradycardia. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we present six cases of uterine rupture highlighting risk factors, and challenges in diagnosis and management, along with a review of the literature. METHOD: A retrospective case series identified eight cases during the five-year study period. All cases from January 1, 2018 to December 31, 2022 were reviewed. Cases with multiple previous cesarean sections were excluded. RESULT: Six cases meeting the study criteria were included in our case series. Uterine rupture was a rare occurrence with a prevalence of nine in 31,315 births representing 0.03% of deliveries. No maternal mortality or need for hysterectomy occurred in our study. Fifty percent of uterine ruptures were associated with stillbirths. The most common risk factor was a previous cesarean section in 83.3%. The most common presenting sign was non-reassuring fetal status patterns in 66.6%. A single case had a silent rupture. CONCLUSION: Signs and symptoms of uterine rupture are nonspecific making diagnosis challenging. Delay in definitive management causes significant fetal morbidity and mortality. For best outcomes, vaginal birth after a previous cesarean section needs close monitoring in appropriately prepared units with the ability to perform immediate cesarean delivery and provide advanced neonatal support.