Gangrenous Uterus and Left Ovary Following Unsafe Induced Abortion: A Life-Threatening Complication Case Report

AbstractTo document an uncommon occurrence of gangrene of the uterus linked to an unsafe abortion.We report the case of Ms. A.E, a 22-year-old lady who presented with bleeding per vaginal, fever, abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea following an induced abortion. Clinical examination revealed the patient was in septic shock, generalised peritonitis, hypoactive bowel sound, foul-smelly vaginal discharge, positive cervical motion tenderness and a traumatised cervix. A preliminary diagnosis of septic abortion was made, with uterine perforation considered as a differential.The patient was resuscitated, and she subsequently had an exploratory laparotomy with subtotal hysterectomy and left oophorectomy on account of a gangrenous uterus and left ovary found intra-operative. Postoperatively, she developed a surgical site wound infection, which was managed with appropriate antibiotic therapy and daily wound care. The patient made a satisfactory recovery and received adequate counselling regarding her current reproductive status and long-term care. Unsafe abortion remains a significant public health concern, particularly in countries where access to safe and legal abortion services is restricted. Timely medical intervention is essential in managing complications arising from unsafe abortion, as these can pose serious, life-threatening risks.