several fragments. This could also be an effect of the attachment to the strong centre of the perineal body, which often remained intact as a V-formed island in the middle flanked by one or two groves. Conclusions: This descriptive study offers detailed knowledge of the appearance of acute obstetric tears that can be of importance for the repair of the injuries. The overlapping surgical technique might theoretically be more effective in repairing the deep tears as this method involves more of the sphincter tissue and thereby may include all fragments in the sutures.