Rectus sheath haematoma presenting as acute abdomen

ABSTRACT

Rupture of epigastric vessels or tearing of the recuts abdominis fibres causes rectus sheath hematoma. Diagnosis can be difficult; a high index of suspicion is essential to prevent unnecessary surgery. Investigations of choice are an abdominal ultrasound and CT scan but the former may not always be helpful and the latter not always available. We are reporting a case that was properly diagnosed and treated on clinical grounds only