Obstetric pubic symphysis arthropathy: a study of nine cases

Abstract

Nine Nigerian women who were either pregnant or recently delivered presented with a symptom complex comprising severe pain or tenderness over the symphysis pubis with ambulatory difficulty. Radiography and ultrasonography were used as complements to confirm diagnosis, and management was non-operative. Seven of the nine women recovered completely, but two died from presumed pulmonary embolism. There is no evidence that pelvic radiography influences diagnosis or management. We suggest routine thromboprophylaxis in the management of the entity and use of obstetric pubic symphysis arthropathy as a specific, descriptive and all encompassing nomenclature.