Rupture of the Uterus in Labor

Abstract

Ninety-six cases of ruptured uterus in labor treated in the University Teaching Hospitals, Benghazi, Libya between 1977 and 1980 are reported. An incidence of 1 in 585 deliveries remained unchanged during the period of study. Twenty uterine ruptures occurred in a previously scarred uterus. Rupture of the unscarred uterus is a more catastrophic event. There is a marked difference in both fetal and maternal outcome between the group with a previously scarred uterus and the group without a previous scar. The incidence and causes of uterine rupture in Libya differ greatly from those in developed countries. High parity is a frequent cause. Other common etiological factors were cephalopelvic disproportion, fetal malpresentation, oxytocin stimulation of labor and unwise obstetrical interference. The fetal wastage was high, a perinatal mortality of 75% being recorded, but 95% of the mothers were saved. Hysterectomy was commonly performed in this group. Repair of the uterus and sterilization should only be perform...