Placental Abruption

Placental abruption is the premature separation of the highly vascular placenta and uterus interface. Often, the late pregnancy complication can occur spontaneously, but many patients presenting in the emergency setting will obtain the diagnosis due to minor or major trauma to the abdomen, back, or pelvis. The patient will complain of mild to severe vaginal bleeding which is associated with pain. An ultrasound of the uterus would determine the extent of an abruption. An emergency physician should evaluate and stabilize any hemorrhagic shock. Moreover, early attention needs to be given to determine fetal wellness which would help determine the indication for emergency cesarean section.