Spontaneous rupture of the iliac vein.

A spontaneous rupture of the left iliac vein is described. A 2 cm tear on the anterior surface of the left iliac vein was discovered at emergency laparotomy on a patient who was suspected of having a huge intraabdominal hemorrhage. Prodromal symptoms, cause, and treatment are discussed. The nine previously reported cases are reviewed. This case represents the seventh successful repair of an idiopathic rupture of an iliac vein.