placental abruption
Premature separation of normally implanted placenta from the uterine wall before delivery, causing maternal and fetal hemorrhage.
Full Definition
Placental abruption (abruptio placentae) is the premature separation of a normally implanted placenta from the uterine wall before fetal delivery, occurring in 0.5-1% of pregnancies. The condition ranges from mild partial separation to complete abruption with severe hemorrhage. Clinical presentation includes abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding (though bleeding may be concealed), uterine tenderness and rigidity, and fetal distress. Risk factors include hypertensive disorders, previous abruption, trauma, smoking, and cocaine use. Complications include maternal hemorrhage, coagulopathy, renal failure, and fetal hypoxia or death. Management depends on severity, gestational age, and maternal-fetal status, ranging from expectant management to immediate delivery.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from other causes of antepartum hemorrhage like placenta previa.
In Context
- "Emergency cesarean delivery was performed for severe placental abruption with fetal bradycardia and maternal hemorrhage." — Emergency department obstetric consultation
- "The patient presented with acute abdominal pain and concealed placental abruption diagnosed by ultrasound and clinical findings." — Labor and delivery admission note