Introduction
Uterine rupture during the gestational period can have dire consequences for both the woman and the newborn. There is a limited number of studies which have clearly documented spontaneous uterine rupture. Most data suggests that the risk is highest when inducing labour in a previous scar; not prior to the commencement of labour.
Aims A retrospective case study review of a documented spontaneous uterine rupture at term in a multiparous woman who had been admitted for an elective repeat caesarean section. She had a complex antenatal history of placenta praevia and suspected placenta accreta at 38weeks gestation.
Results This patient was admitted prior to her caesarean section for steroid loading when she had sudden onset of acute abdominal pain. This resulted in a category one alert caesarean section for a suspected uterine rupture when the cardiotocograph showed a fetal bradycardia. A good outcome was achieved and both the patient and newborn were discharged home post-operative day four.
Conclusion It is almost certain, had this patient not been admitted to hospital prior to her operation, a different outcome may have manifested. The early admission was the key factor in the survival of both parties.