Antepartum hemorrhage from previous-cesarean-sectioned uterus as a potential sign of uterine artery pseudoaneurysm

J Zhejiang Univ Sci B. 2017 May;18(5):441-444. doi: 10.1631/jzus.B1600528.

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH), a leading cause of maternal mortality, can occur within 24 h of delivery (primary PPH), or during the period from 24 h after delivery to Week 6 of puerperium (secondary PPH). It requires health professionals to be alert to the symptoms to ensure prompt diagnosis and treatment, especially in the case of rupture of a uterine artery pseudoaneurysm (UAP) due to its life-threatening consequence (Baba et al., 2014). Most of the published case reports or case serials describe UAP as a possible cause of delayed PPH after traumatic procedures during delivery or pregnancy termination, including cesarean section (CS), manual removal of the placenta, or dilation and curettage (D&C) (Wald, 2003). Herein, we report a case of prior CS-related UAP manifesting as primary PPH after an uncomplicated vaginal delivery. This case required emergency embolization and is notable for several reasons. Antepartum hemorrhage of the previously scarred uterus was a potential sign of the ruptured UAP, and color Doppler sonography sometimes deceived the physician as the characteristic features of UAP did not appear to be present.

Keywords: Postpartum hemorrhage; Antepartum hemorrhage; Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aneurysm, False / diagnosis*
  • Aneurysm, False / etiology*
  • Aneurysm, False / therapy
  • Cesarean Section / adverse effects*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / diagnosis*
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / etiology*
  • Postpartum Hemorrhage / therapy
  • Pregnancy
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Uterine Artery*