Hepatic rupture as the initial manifestation of HELLP syndrome

  • Lyndsey Blair Thiessen University of Saskatchewan
  • John Shaw University of Saskatchewan
Keywords: hepatic rupture, preeclampsia, eclampsia, HELLP

Abstract

A 34-year-old normotensive nulliparous woman at 38 weeks’ gestation developed sudden onset of severe right upper quadrant pain, fetal distress, hypotension, and a generalised seizure. At urgent Caesarean section, a ruptured subcapsular liver haematoma was found. A healthy infant was delivered. Haemostasis was obtained with a Pringle manoeuver and liver packing. Subsequent bloodwork diagnosed HELLP syndrome. Both the patient and the infant made a full recovery. This case demonstrates the effectiveness of prompt application of these surgical manoeuvres.

Author Biographies

Lyndsey Blair Thiessen, University of Saskatchewan
College of Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
John Shaw, University of Saskatchewan
Division of General Surgery
Royal University Hospital
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
Published
2018-09-19
How to Cite
Thiessen, L., & Shaw, J. (2018). Hepatic rupture as the initial manifestation of HELLP syndrome. South African Journal of Surgery, 56(3), 70. Retrieved from http://sajs.redbricklibrary.com/index.php/sajs/article/view/2587
Issue
Vol 56 No 3 (2018)
Section
Case Reports

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