Placental abruption at 18 weeks of pregnancy leading to Couvelaire uterus: A rare case

Abstract

Abruptio placenta is characterized by the premature separation of the placenta that occurs in about 1-2 per 100 pregnancies. It is a major obstetric complication associated with increased risk of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality globally, especially in developing countries. Abruptio-placenta is commonly seen and diagnosed after 28 weeks of pregnancy. Here we present a case of abruptio placentae with couvelaire uterus at 18 weeks of gestation. The patient was initially managed conservatively but later was taken for Exploratory Laparotomy in view of unstable hemodynamics and profuse vaginal bleeding with history of previous caesarean section. The patient had profuse haemorrhage on hysterotomy which was controlled by B-Lynch suture.