Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) in the presence of an intact perineum

Abstract

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) in the absence of concurrent injury to the perineal skin is not a common diagnosis. A primiparous woman delivered a healthy male infant by spontaneous vertex delivery. At time of delivery, a compound presentation of the fetal hand with the head was noted. Initial examination revealed a presumed second-degree tear; however, a small laceration above the anal verge was noted, which on exploration revealed a perineal injury through the anal sphincter complex. In the operating theatre, the perineal skin was incised to reveal a 3c OASI, which was repaired appropriately. While atypical OASI has been reported previously, this specific injury has never been described in detail in the literature. Awareness of atypical perineal injuries is needed and while careful perineal examination is required in all cases, this is especially important where the perineal skin appears intact to ensure appropriate diagnosis of any concurrent OASI.