COMPLETE RUPTURE OF THE URETHRA IN COMBIN ATION WITH ANTERIOR PELVIC FRACTURE AND SYMPHYSEAL RUPTURE AFTER SPONTANEOUS VAGINAL DELIVERY

We report on a complete longitudinal rupture of the urethra in combina tion with a rupture of the pubic symphysis and pelvic fracture during spontaneous vaginal delivery. Only after stabilisation of the pelvic f racture by external skeletal fixation adaptation of the urethra was po ssible. Three weeks later after removing of the transurethral catheter a mild stress incontinence could be observed. In the follow up one ye ar later the patient was completely continent. The cosmetic result was satisfactory. There was no cystocele. An unclear haematuria after del ivery needs a meticulous urological examination. Early repair of ureth ral disruption minimize the risk of severe incontinence. Coordinated c are between the trauma surgeon and urologist is required for successfu l treatment of this rare combined injury after birth.