Split a gut

Did anybody hear this phrase? When I saw it, it was something like, "When I found it out, I almost split a gut." I guess the person meant that he laughed a lot but I am not sure.

I've heard "bust a gut." But "split" does sound better in that context.

"I laughed so hard I almost busted a gut!" can occasionally be heard. SS

Probably an extension of "belly laugh"?