Conservative vs. surgical management of septic abortion with renal failure

Abstract

The role of surgery in the management of postabortum renal failure complicated with extensive uterine sepsis, perforation or peritonitis is controversial. This study compares the course and final outcome of 14 patients (66.6%) conservatively managed with appropriate antibiotics, fluid or blood replacement and dialysis, with seven patients (33.3%) for whom hysterectomy or laparotomy was undertaken in addition. Whereas all 14 patients treated conservatively died as the result of uncontrolled septicemia, three of the seven surgical patients recovered completely. Extensive necrosis with perforation of the uterine wall was confirmed either at laparotomy or at autopsy in all 21 women. To reduce mortality, the authors recommend early surgical intervention for patients suffering from post-abortum renal failure complicated with uterine sepsis or perforation.