Traumatic Uterine Rupture in a Nonpregnant Patient: A Case Report
When managing an adolescent with hemorrhagic shock and suspected occult pelvic bleeding after blunt trauma, do not solely rely on the absence of pregnancy to dismiss uterine pathology. If the clinical picture remains concerning despite initial stabilization, pursuing pelvic MRI for unexplained hemoperitoneum is a prudent step that may uncover otherwise overlooked tears or ruptures.
This case report details an unusual presentation of traumatic uterine rupture in a nonpregnant adolescent following severe blunt trauma, which is quite rare given that most reported cases occur during pregnancy. The authors highlight the potential for this diagnosis to be missed because clinicians often default to thinking about gestation when evaluating pelvic trauma. The key takeaway from this case is the need for vigilance regarding subtle findings on imaging even after ruling out pregnancy. They suggest that if unexplained hemoperitoneum persists following initial stabilization for unstable pelvic fractures, considering a more sensitive modality like pelvic MRI might be warranted.