Citation

Srch M. Cesk. Gynekol. 1978; 43(8): 615-618.

Vernacular Title

Smrtelná vzduchová embolie pri pokusu o kriminální potrat.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1978, Ceska Lekarska Spolecnost Jana Evangelisty Purkyne)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

688429

Abstract

Despite laws permitting legal abortions, death due to illegal procedures sometimes occurs. One such case is described. On Aug. 26, 1969, a 65 year old Mrs. B.K. reported the rapid death of a young woman in her home. The cause of death could not be determined by topical exam. Mrs. B.K. said the young woman had come to her requesting an abortion, but became ill during the ensuing conversation. She denied doing anything to the young woman other than attempting to revive her. She said she called for help when her efforts failed. Because Mrs. B.K. had a previous criminal record for performing illegal abortions, because spots of the victims blood were found on her clothing, because spots of blood were also found on the victim though external genitals were suspiciously clean (as was the kitchen floor on which the victim was lying), an autopsy was performed. During the autopsy, a massive air embolism in the lungs was found. The air entered the circulatory system during perforation of the cervix and part of the uterus. Damage to surrounding tissues was also found. It was determined that the damage was caused by a blunt instrument. The 4 month old fetus and anmiotic sac were not damaged. Bubbles of air and coagulated blood were found in the damaged tissues. Mrs. B.K. than admitted to trying to induce the abortion by inserting a rubber tube into the uterus through the cervix, and blowing air into and out of the uterus. She had admitted to using this method in 1943 and 1954, when she was criminally prosecuted. She began performing abortions during World War 2 and had performed a great many of them since then.

Language: cs