Incarcerated retroverted uterus in the third trimester complicated by postpartum pulmonary embolism

BACKGROUND: Incarceration of the retroverted gravid uterus is an extremely rare diagnosis in the third trimester that carries significant maternal operative and postoperative morbidity. CASE: The condition was diagnosed clinically in the third trimester of a primigravida. Despite the preoperative diagnosis, operative delivery proved difficult, requiring delivery of the fetus through the posterior wall of the uterus. Thirty-six hours after delivery the patient had a pulmonary embolus. CONCLUSION: This case report discusses the diagnosis and management of the condition incarcerated, retroverted uterus with postpartum pulmonary embolism. Prophylactic low molecular weight heparin in the antepartum period should be a considered for possible venous stasis due to the anatomy of the uterus.