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INFUSION of a dilute solution of pitocin for induction of labor and treatment of uterine inertia is gaining popularity. The purpose of this paper is to report two accidents that occurred in more than 150 such cases on the Tulane Service of the Charity Hospital, New Orleans. One of these cases was previously reported in an account of our experiences with these infusions.¶ A number of precautions have evolved from our use of pitocin infusions. In the preparation of the infusion not more than 10 minims of pitocin (often only 5) is added to a 1000-cc. set. The venoclysis is . . .

Summary 1. A case is presented illustrating the occurrence of uterine rupture of a severe degree without the dramatic symptoms usually associated with this condition. 2. Attention is drawn to the importance of strict observation ot patientsin the “fourth stage of labor” as regards nonresponding blood prcssnre ill the shock levels, with or without excessive vaginal bleeding. 3. The severe degree of the uterine laceration with the minimal symptoms leads one to postulate that many cases of less severe rupture must go unrecognized and be precursors of later, more severe, rupture.