Salpingorrhexis (Fallopian Tube Rupture): Causes, Symptoms, and Emergency Care

Salpingorrhexis is a rupture of the fallopian tube, a gynecological emergency.

Common Causes

• Ectopic pregnancy: Implantation in the tube causes distension and rupture (most common).
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)/STIs: Chronic inflammation weakens tubal wall.
• Trauma: Blunt or penetrating abdominal injury.
• Iatrogenic: Rarely, IUD insertion or uterine instrumentation.

Symptoms

• Sudden, severe unilateral lower abdominal/pelvic pain
• Vaginal bleeding (often scant, dark)
• Nausea, vomiting
• Shoulder tip pain (diaphragmatic irritation from hemoperitoneum)
• Lightheadedness, syncope, hypotension (signs of internal bleeding)

Management

Immediate surgical intervention (laparoscopic salpingectomy or salpingostomy) is usually required. Early diagnosis via transvaginal ultrasound and serial β-hCG is critical. Delayed treatment risks hemorrhagic shock, infertility, and death.