Prenatal Sonographic Detection of Uterine Dehiscence

Uterine dehiscence is the incomplete separation of the myometrium at a uterine scar site, usually from a previous cesarean section. Because membranes remain intact, the prognosis for both mother and fetus is generally good. However, labor contractions may lead to progression and a complete uterine rupture, which can be catastrophic. The combination of abdominal pain, previous cesarean section, and the sonographic finding of ballooning membranes should suggest the diagnosis of uterine dehiscence.