placental abruption
Premature separation of the placenta from the uterine wall before delivery. A serious obstetric emergency requiring immediate intervention.
Full Definition
Placental abruption refers to the premature separation of a normally implanted placenta from the uterine wall before delivery of the fetus. This obstetric emergency occurs in approximately 1% of pregnancies and can be partial or complete. The condition presents with vaginal bleeding, abdominal pain, and uterine tenderness, though bleeding may be concealed. Risk factors include maternal hypertension, previous abruption, trauma, smoking, and cocaine use. Immediate delivery is often necessary to prevent maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.
Usage
Usage note: Often confused with placenta previa; abruption involves separation while previa involves abnormal implantation location.
In Context
- "The patient presented with severe abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding consistent with placental abruption." — Emergency department documentation
- "Continuous fetal monitoring revealed late decelerations suggesting possible placental abruption." — Labor and delivery notes