Spontaneous hepatic rupture in pregnancy: management with hepatic artery ligation.

We have described a pregnant patient who had spontaneous hepatic rupture, an uncommon but devasting complication of pregnancy, with both maternal and fetal mortality of 60% reported. Prompt uterine evacuation and abdominal exploration with surgical control of the hepatic hemorrhage best assures maternal and fetal survival. Hepatic artery ligation may be successfully utilized for hepatic hemorrhage control. We find temporary abdominal packing an acceptable method for the control of diffuse hepatic parenchymal bleeding.