Complete fetal transection after a motor vehicle collision

Abstract

Background: Motor vehicle collisions are the leading cause of fetal death related to maternal trauma, with rupture of the gravid uterus being one potential grave outcome.

Case: We present a case of a woman at 22 weeks of gestation who presented to the emergency department after a "high-speed" motor vehicle collision. On initial presentation, she was hemodynamically stable, and the examination was significant for midabdominal transverse ecchymosis from seatbelt trauma. A computed tomography scan identified a probable uterine rupture. Laparotomy revealed a 1,500-mL hemoperitoneum and a completely ruptured uterus requiring hysterectomy. The fetus was completely transected at the level of the midabdomen.

Conclusion: Uterine rupture is possible for gravid women involved in motor vehicle collisions.