What is Hepatic Rupture?

Hepatic rupture is a rare condition that occurs in pregnant women. It usually occurs during labor, but it can also occur just before labor or just after. Hepatic rupture is also known as hepatic perforation, and consists in the bursting or tearing of the liver. Once hepatic rupture occurs, doctors must be quick with a diagnosis before the life of the mother, the child, or both are forfeit.

Occurrence :
The largest study on hepatic rupture was in Dublin’s St. Vincent’s University Hospital. Studies have been difficult because of the rarity of the condition. As of 2006, only about 100 occurrences of hepatic rupture were on file worldwide. An estimate of the incidence of hepatic rupture is once in every 225,000 live births. Hepatic rupture often goes unreported due to misdiagnosis. Most women who have suffered from hepatic rupture are in their 30s, and it usually occurs in women who have previously given birth.

Cause :
Hepatic rupture is thought to be caused by eclampsia and preeclampsia, but an exact cause has not yet been determined by medical science. These conditions are a type of seizure that occurs in pregnant women. It can result in severe anemia, and blood can lose its ability to coagulate. During eclamptic seizures, the liver may hemorrhage. This bleeding may create small tears in the liver, weakening its overall structure. If tearing continues, the liver can no longer hold together and finally bursts. After bursting, the lining of the abdomen, the peritoneum can become irritated, leading to shock and possibly death.

Diagnosing Hepatic Rupture :
The diagnosis of hepatic rupture is difficult, but can be accomplished by fast-thinking doctors with quick access to imaging devices such as ultrasound, MRIs, and CT scans. In the absence of imaging devices, exploratory surgery is required. In order to save the mother, the pregnancy must often be terminated during surgery.

Treatment :
Hepatic rupture is initially treated by stopping or slowing the bleeding by applying compression. Once the bleeding has stopped, the liver may be able to be stitched up and saved. The abdominal cavity is then cleaned to prevent further irritation and shock.
Outlook :
Fetal mortality is the result of 59 to 85 percent of cases of hepatic rupture. Fetal and maternal fatality is the result of 25 percent of cases.

Disclaimer: The preceding article is for informational purposes only. It does not replace professional advice or a consultation from a legal or medical professional.