Spontaneous rupture of the iliac vein: a rare cause of intra-abdominal hemorrhage

Abstract

generally associated with trauma and iatrogenic injury during lower abdominal or pelvic surgery. It usually occurs in the left common and external iliac veins. We report a fatal case of spontaneous rupture of the left external iliac vein to emphasize the clinical and imaging characteristics of this rare condition. Treatment is based on open surgical repair or endovascular stenting in selected cases. High level of suspicion is essential for early diagnosis and treatment to improve the associated morbidity and mortality.