Introduction: Rupture of the corpus luteum, though generally self-limiting in women with normal coagulation, could lead to life-threatening bleeding in patients with prosthetic valves on anticoagulant therapy and described in only a few case reports in the literature. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of ruptured corpus luteum among women undergoing laparotomy for hemoperitoneum in a tertiary care centre.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among women undergoing laparotomy for hemoperitoneum in a tertiary centre from 7 April 2017 to 31 March 2021 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee [Reference number: 328(6-11-E)2/73/74]. All women who underwent laparotomy for hemoperitoneum during the study period were enrolled. Convenience sampling technique was used. Point estimate and 95% Confidence Interval were calculated.
Results: Out of 447 women who underwent laparotomy for hemoperitoneum, ruptured corpus luteum was seen in 48 (10.74%) (7.87-13.61, 95% Confidence Interval). Out of which 36 (75%) had prosthetic valves. There was 1 (2.77%) mortality and 3 (8.33%) recurrences.
Conclusions: The prevalence of rupture of the corpus luteum among women undergoing laparotomy for hemoperitoneum was similar to other studies done in similar settings. Early diagnosis, emergent reversal of coagulopathy and surgery if needed are the mainstay of management.
Keywords: anticoagulant; corpus luteum; hemoperitoneum.