[Report on 21 uterine ruptures and the influence of single row uterotomy stitching on rupture prevention (author's transl)].

Wound closure by 1 row of interupted sutures provides optimal healing conditions. As a result scar tissue formation is cut down. This general surgical principle is valid in stitching an uterotomy as well. Increasing frequency of cesarian section could end up in a rising number of scar ruptures. This drawback for a subsequent pregnancy should be met by the single row technique. It was applied in 1434 women from 1962 to 1974. All of them had lower segment cesarian sections. Only 3 harmless ruptures occurred in this group. The clinical course of 12 scar ruptures after terraced uterotomy closure was less favourable. In 6 cases a pregnant uterus ruptured without previous operation. Clinical results are compared. This backs the technique practised. In 5 patients the ruptured uterus could be repaired in the same way as in cesarian section. Hysterectomy, however, was the usual treatment. The risk of rupture after classical cesarian section is lowered by the technique described. This applies to the surgical treatment of uterus duplex as well.