[Uterine rupture: risk factors, maternal and perinatal complications]

Abstract

Objectives: To determine risk factors, maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with uterine rupture in women with previous caesarean delivery.

Material and methods: We conducted a population-based, retrospective cohort analysis, comparing deliveries with and without uterine rupture in women with uterine scar during a 12-year period. Women attempting a trial of labour were selected with precise criterion. We analysed obstetric history, characteristics of labour, mode of delivery, maternal and perinatal complications.

Results: Thirty-six uterine ruptures were registered of which 11 were complete. These complete ruptures occurred at a rate of 0.4% among deliveries in women with previous caesarean delivery (n=2718) and 0.5% among women attempting a trial of labour (8/1440). Twenty-one ruptures (58%) were diagnosed during a trial of labour. Some risks factors were identified like a labor after 41weeks of amenorrhea and no medical history of natural childbirth. There were neither maternal nor neonatal deaths. The major maternal complications were postpartum haemorrhage (13.8%, n=5) and blood transfusion (8.3%, n=3), significantly most frequent than in the control group (p<0.01). No hysterectomy was required. Concerning neonatal morbidity, mean lactate rate was significantly higher for the rupture group.

Conclusion: The low rate of uterine rupture, maternal and neonatal complications supports a rigorously selection of women attemping a trial of labor. A labor after 41weeks of amenorrhea and no medical history of natural childbirth should be added to common criterion.