(274) Sexual Assault Resulting in Hemoperitoneum and Multiple Genital Tract Injuries

Abstract

Abstract Introduction The sexual experience ought to be pleasant and desirable, this case however demonstrates one of such unusual sexual events with catastrophic ending that may have resulted in fatality but for timely surgical intervention. The first coital experience for women may be associated with discomfort but when it is non-consensual the damaging effect of the trauma is deeper and may last for a lifetime. Objective To demonstrate unusual presentation of coital injuries with hemoperitoneum and its management in low resource settings to reduce immediate and long-term effects including death. Methods A case report of an 18-year old nulliparous lady with no prior sexual exposure who presented with vagina bleeding of 18hours following non-consensual penetrative sexual intercourse perpetrated by her religious cleric. Bleeding was in excess of 500mLs with associated lower abdominal pain and dizziness. She presented in hypovolaemic shock with severe anemia (hematocrit - 15%). There was ongoing vagina bleeding with mild abdominal distension. No skin injuries. Results She had genital tract exploration with findings of a 3cm peri-urethral vaginal laceration and a 6cm longitudinal rent on the posterior upper vagina extending to the cervix. The apex of the vaginal laceration could not be visualized from the vagina, necessitating exploratory laparotomy. Findings at surgery include 1.7L of hemoperitoneum and a transverse laceration on the posterior cervix extending into the lower uterine segment about 5cm long. The lacerations were repaired per vagina and per abdomen respectively with hemostasis secured. She had other supportive care including antibiotics, blood transfusion, analgesics, tetanus prophylaxis, Post-exposure prophylaxis for HIV and Hepatitis B immunoglobulin as well as emergency contraceptives. She was counselled with empathy and referred to the clinical psychologist for mental health support to prevent long term mental health effects. The assailant was arrested by the police and charged to court Conclusions Sexual assault may be associated with significant morbidities including unusual presentation such as hemoperitoneum and cervico-uterine laceration even in the absence of obvious skin injuries. Early presentation and appropriate intervention can help limit the adverse outcomes that may be associated as well as long term sequelae. Disclosure No.