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Periconceptional and prenatal care should be continued even during COVID-19 pandemics. Indeed, prevention and intervention programs for managing heart failure with aggressive resuscitation and invasive monitoring help to provide the best outcomes in cardiomyopathies. PPH may be associated with cardiac diseases and the resuscitation measures need modification to prevent maternal mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The pathology of post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) differs depending on its cause, background and timing of bleeding, and the effectiveness of transarterial embolization (TAE) is thought to vary based on these characteristics. The aim of this study is to evaluate the treatment outcomes of TAE for PPH. Methods: Technical success, initial clinical success (hemostasis without repeat TAE or surgical treatment after initial TAE) and final clinical success (hemostasis with or without repeat TAE, but without surgical treatment) were assessed in 62 Japanese patients. Factors affecting final clinical success were analyzed using univariate analysis. Values of P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. Further, the clinical course and factors associated with rebleeding, return of menstruation and fertility, and complications of TAE were assessed. Results: Final clinical success rate was significantly lower in cases with obstetrical disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) or the International Society on Thrombosis and Hemostasis (ISTH) DIC (P = 0.01, 0.03). Rebleeding (n = 9, 14.5%) was more common in patients with retained products of conception (RPOC) (P = 0.006). On long‐term follow‐up in 23 patients, return of menstruation was confirmed in 17 (73.9%) of these patients. Subsequent pregnancy was confirmed in seven patients (30.4%). TAE‐related complications were seen in 6 patients (9.0%). There were no maternal deaths. Conclusions: Obstetrical and ISTH DIC reduced the success rate of TAE for PPH (P = 0.01, 0.03). Rebleeding, which is observed significantly more frequently in PPH caused by RPOC (P = 0.006), can be effectively treated by repeat TAE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Inner myometrial laceration is a rarely encountered intrapartum uterine trauma, which usually present as post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH). The diagnosis can only be confirmed by direct examination of the uterine cavity but it should be suspected in PPH with good uterine contraction. Discussed here are the characteristics and management of the reported cases including two women managed at our center. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 35‐year‐old primigravid woman with chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction presented to our institution. Except for an enlarged fetal bladder, her pregnancy was almost uneventful until she developed pre‐eclampsia requiring emergent cesarean section at 34 weeks gestation. After delivery, intractable uterine atony developed with blood loss reaching 3500 mL within 15 min. Following a B‐Lynch suture, the bleeding attenuated but uterine atony persisted; lochia persisted for 3 months post‐partum. The infant was diagnosed with megacystis microcolon intestinal hypoperistalsis syndrome after birth. The mother's clinical course and previous reports suggested that atonic bleeding was associated with the pathology of chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction; the infant's disease was considered to be maternal‐related disease. Clinicians should be vigilant in pregnant patients with chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo‐obstruction especially with these complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To evaluate pregnancy outcome and complications in subsequent pregnancies after severe post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) between women with and without a history of uterine artery embolization (UAE). Methods: Women who had a history of severe PPH, and delivered newborns at ≥22 gestational weeks in subsequent pregnancies were enrolled. Severe PPH was defined as blood loss volume of more than 2000 mL. Results: The blood loss volume (median 1581 mL) in women with UAE (n = 14) was significantly more than that in women without UAE (median 1021 mL, n = 32, P < 0.01), and the recurrence rate of severe PPH in women with UAE (n = 5, 35.7%) was significantly higher than that in women without UAE (n = 3, 9.4%, P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in frequencies of premature delivery, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, fetal growth restriction, or placenta previa/low lying placenta. Of 14 women with UAE, 7 (50.0%) had abnormally invasive placenta, whereas of 32 women without UAE, none had abnormally invasive placenta. Conclusion: Subsequent pregnancies after UAE for severe PPH had high risks for recurrence of severe PPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Compare the effectiveness of administration of different doses of rectal misoprostol before cesarean section to reduce intra‐ and postoperative blood loss. Methods: A double‐blind randomized clinical trial including 453 term pregnant woman scheduled for elective cesarean section where participants received either 200‐, 400‐ or 600‐μg misoprostol rectally before cesarean section. Study medications were administered after catheter insertion and shortly before skin incision. Primary outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss. Results: The intraoperative blood loss was higher in patients who received 200‐μg misoprostol (464.6 ± 143.1 mL) than those who received 400 or 600 μg, yet, no statistical difference was found between the 400‐ (359.3 ± 120.9 mL) and 600‐μg groups (330.8 ± 133.8 mL). The incidence of side effects as fever and chills increases with increasing the dose of misoprostol. Conclusion: Rectal administration of misoprostol for the prevention of post‐partum hemorrhage and decreasing intraoperative blood loss during caesarian section is a good alternative to other uterotonics. Yet, the best dose to be used needs further research to be agreed upon. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Motherwort (YiMuCao), a traditional Chinese herb, has been shown beneficial effects for women's diseases. This meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of motherwort injection add‐on therapy to carboprost tromethamine for prevention of post‐partum blood loss. A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP and Wanfang from their inception to December 2017. Randomized controlled trials that determined the add‐on effects of motherwort injection to carboprost for prevention of post‐partum blood loss were eligible. Pooled risk ratio (RR) and mean difference (MD) with 95% confidence interval (CI) were used to summarize the effect sizes. Eight trials including 1276 pregnant women fulfilled the inclusion criteria. Prophylactic use of motherwort injection add‐on therapy significantly reduced the post‐partum 2 h (MD −127.5 mL; 95% CI −149.13 to −105.88) and 24 h (MD −146.85 mL; 95% CI −179.77 to −113.94) blood loss and incidence of post‐partum hemorrhage (RR 0.28; 95% CI 0.17–0.45) than carboprost. Moreover, adjunctive treatment with motherwort injection significantly decreased the length of the third stage of labor (MD −3.41 min; 95% CI −4.33 to −2.49) and duration of lochia (MD −7.13 days; 95% CI −8.49 to −5.76). There was no statistical significant difference in the incidence of adverse events (RR 0.76; 95% CI 0.50–1.16). Prophylactic use of motherwort injection add‐on therapy to carboprost tromethamine could reduce post‐partum blood loss. However, more well‐designed trials are necessary to confirm the findings of this study due to the methodological flaws of the included trials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To avoid complications associated with uterine compression sutures, we devised a ring compression suture (RCS). Methods: The RCS was performed on 12 patients with post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) during cesarean section. The suture was inserted 0.5 cm below the attachment point of the uterosacral ligament into the uterine cavity and pushed downward through the cervical canal into the vagina. The other end of the stitch was threaded through the lower abdominal wall, from the inside of the abdomen cavity to the outside of the abdominal wall, emerging at the external surface of the lower abdomen 2 cm lateral to the ventral median line and 1 cm above the symphysis pubis. Then, the two ends of the suture (the end in the vagina had been pulled out in advance) were tied tightly on the pudendum. The same stitch was repeated on the contralateral side. After 48 h postoperatively, the suture was removed through the vagina under sterilization. Results: All 12 women with PPH who underwent RCS achieved hemostasis, and complications related to RCS were not seen. Two of them had successful pregnancies postoperatively. The remaining women had no desire for a further pregnancy. Conclusion: The procedure can be used as an alternative to peripartum hysterectomy and also as a prophylactic application in PPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: Intrauterine balloon tamponade has been increasingly used for the management of post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) in recent years. However, data on the precise mechanisms and pressure required for the balloon tamponade are scanty in the literature. This study aims to review the intraluminal pressure (ILP) generated by the Bakri intrauterine balloon that is necessary to produce a ‘positive tamponade test’ during severe PPH. Methods: This was a prospective cohort study. The ILP of the Bakri balloon was measured using a manometer after a positive tamponade test was clinically achieved during severe PPH (blood loss >1 L). The patient's blood pressure was recorded, and ultrasound scan was performed to verify the position of the balloon and the presence of forward flow in the uterine arteries. The main outcome measure is the ILP of the Bakri balloon required to achieve a positive tamponade test. Results: Twenty patients were included for final analysis. The net ILP measured ranged from 67 to 92 mmHg, and this pressure was lower than the concurrent systolic pressure in all cases. Color Doppler confirmed positive forward flow in the uterine vessels in all cases. There were no differences in the pressure measured with the balloon position, and there was no relationship between the volumes of saline infused and the net pressure. Conclusion: A positive tamponade test in an intrauterine balloon is probably achieved by local compression pressure exerted on the vasculature of the placental bed rather than by generating an ILP exceeding systemic blood pressure or by occlusion of flow to the uterine arteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: To evaluate the cost effectiveness of carbetocin compared to oxytocin when used as prophylaxis against post‐partum hemorrhage (PPH) during cesarean deliveries. Methods: A systematic review of the literature was performed to identify randomized controlled trials that compared the use of carbetocin to oxytocin in the context of cesarean deliveries. Cost effectiveness analysis was then performed using secondary data from the perspective of a maternity unit within the Malaysian Ministry of Health, over a 24 h time period. Results: Seven randomized controlled trials with over 2000 patients comparing carbetocin with oxytocin during cesarean section were identified. The use of carbetocin in our center, which has an average of 3000 cesarean deliveries annually, would have prevented 108 episodes of PPH, 104 episodes of transfusion and reduced the need for additional uterotonics in 455 patients. The incremental cost effectiveness ratio of carbetocin for averting an episode of PPH was US$278.70. Conclusion: Reduction in retreatment, staffing requirements, transfusion and potential medication errors mitigates the higher index cost of carbetocin. From a pharmacoeconomic perspective, in the context of cesarean section, carbetocin was cost effective as prophylaxis against PPH. Ultimately, the relative value placed on the outcomes above and the individual unit's resources would influence the choice of uterotonic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Aim: We aimed to identify factors associated with massive post‐partum bleeding in pregnancies with placenta previa and to establish a scoring model to predict post‐partum severe bleeding. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed in 506 healthy singleton pregnancies with placenta previa from 2006 to 2016. Cases with intraoperative blood loss (≥2000 mL), packed red blood cells transfusion (≥4), uterine artery embolization, or hysterectomy were defined as massive bleeding. After performing multivariable analysis, using the adjusted odds ratios (aOR), we formulated a scoring model. Results: Seventy‐three women experienced massive post‐partum bleeding (14.4%). After multivariable analysis, seven variables were associated with massive bleeding: maternal old age (≥35 years; aOR 1.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–3.20, P = 0.049), antepartum bleeding (aOR 4.76, 95%CI 2.01–11.02, P < 0.001), non‐cephalic presentation (aOR 3.41, 95%CI 1.40–8.30, P = 0.007), complete placenta previa (aOR 1.93, 95%CI 1.05–3.54, P = 0.034), anterior placenta (aOR 2.74, 95%CI 1.54–4.89, P = 0.001), multiple lacunae (≥4; aOR 2.77, 95%CI 1.54–4.99, P = 0.001), and uteroplacental hypervascularity (aOR 4.51, 95%CI 2.30–8.83, P < 0.001). We formulated a scoring model including maternal old age (<35: 0, ≥35: 1), antepartum bleeding (no: 0, yes: 2), fetal non‐cephalic presentation (no: 0, yes: 2), placenta previa type (incomplete: 0, complete: 1), placenta location (posterior: 0, anterior: 1), uteroplacental hypervascularity (no: 0, yes: 2), and multiple lacunae (no: 0, yes: 1) to predict post‐partum massive bleeding. According to our scoring model, a score of 5/10 had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 77% for predicting massive post‐partum bleeding. The area under the receiver–operator curve was 0.856 (P < 0.001). The negative predictive value was 95.9%. Conclusion: Our scoring model might provide useful information for prediction of massive post‐partum bleeding in pregnancies with placenta previa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The study was conducted to identify maternal morbidity and associated factors such intensive care unit admission and surgical intervention. Methods Pregnant and six-week post-partum women without any other comorbidy were recruited from January 2014 to December 2015 from the Department of Gynaecology and Obstetrics at Liaquat National Hospital, Karachi. A structurally designed questionnaire was used to record demographic data and factors related to the management and intervention of maternal conclusions. Results A total of 213 patients were included in the study, with an average age of 27.87 ± 5.26 years, mean parity of 2.02 ± 1.88 and mean gestational period of 32.48 ± 7.93. The details of 186 neonatal cases were also recorded: 47 neonates were admitted to the intensive care unit, while 23 were kept on ventilation. The primary complication was post-partum hemorrhage. The most common intervention methods used was lower segment cesarean section. Conclusion The concept of maternal morbidity is developing as a new indicator for the assessment of maternal healthcare services. Public health awareness programs should be conducted for health professionals to combat the high incidence of maternal morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Acquired hemophilia A (AHA) is a serious and rare complication of pregnancy, caused by autoantibodies to coagulation factor VIII after delivery. We here report the case of a 36-year-old primigravida woman who developed AHA following chorioamnionitis-caused miscarriage in the second trimester. Thirteen days after abortion, sudden, massive vaginal bleeding occurred with marked prolongation of activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) in the absence of other abnormal coagulation data. Sequential transfusion of fresh frozen plasma did not achieve normalization of APTT. Further examination confirmed reduction of coagulation factor VIII and the presence of its inhibitor, leading to the final diagnosis of AHA. The patient was effectively treated with bypassing agents (activated prothrombin complex concentrate and recombinant activated factor VII) and immunosuppressive therapy. Fifteen months after remission, the patient became pregnant and successfully achieved term delivery with no signs of recurrence. This case illustrates that AHA should be considered in the occurrence of plasma transfusion-uncontrolled severe bleeding after delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim This study was conducted to compare two management protocols for post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) during cesarean section (CS) in placenta previa (PP), Bakri balloon protocol versus non-balloon protocol. Secondary analysis among balloon treated cases was also performed to identify predictors of success, failure or complications, if any. Methods A prospective cohort study was conducted in two hospitals in Saudi Arabia, including cases that developed PPH during CS for PP. The primary outcome measure was success in preventing hysterectomy, while secondary outcome measures were amount of blood loss, need for blood transfusion, need for return to theater and admission to intensive care unit. Results One hundred and fifty-one cases were identified as low-lying placenta and PP, of which 114 developed PPH. Two patients were unstable and required immediate hysterectomy. The remaining 112 cases were managed by balloon (72 cases) or non-balloon protocols (40). The balloon alone was successful in achieving hemostasis in 87.5% of cases. When analyzed specifically, balloon success was associated with the absence of accreta (odds ratio 0.001, confidence interval 0.000-0.974) and short operation duration (odds ratio 1.143, confidence interval 1.018-1.282). Conclusion Application of the Bakri balloon for the management of PPH after CS in cases of PP is an effective strategy that should be affordable worldwide. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate maternal and neonatal outcomes of conservative management of post-partum hemorrhage due to placenta previa-accreta using hypogastric artery ligation and endo-uterine hemostatic suture to lower uterine segment. Methods The records of 38 patients who were managed conservatively with hypogastric artery ligation and endo-uterine hemostatic suture to control post-partum hemorrhage secondary to placenta previa-accreta between April 2014 and January 2016, were reviewed retrospectively. Placenta previa-accreta was diagnosed according to gray-scale, color and 3-D power Doppler ultrasonography in addition to the intraoperative findings based on fragmentary or difficult separation of the placenta. In the case of conservative treatment protocol failure, cesarean hysterectomy was performed. Results Of these patients, 55.2% were between 25 and 35 years old; 97.5% were multiparous; 71.2% had two or more previous cesarean section and 68.5% had preterm delivery. Women with placenta accreta had a median estimated blood loss of 450 mL; 57.8% of patients had blood transfusion (mean intraoperative transfusion, 2 units packed red blood cells; range, 0-9 units). Median duration of operation was 112.5 min (range, 45-305 min) and 32 patients (84.3%) with placenta accreta did not undergo cesarean hysterectomy. Conclusion Conservative treatment of post-partum hemorrhage secondary to placenta previa-accreta with hypogastric artery ligation and endo-uterine hemostatic sutures to the lower segment of the uterus is associated with lower hysterectomy rate compared with the other conservative methods reported in the literature. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Uterine artery pseudoaneurysms (UAP) are a rare cause of post-partum hemorrhage. Conservative management is discouraged due to the risk of spontaneous hemorrhage. Intra-arterial embolization is highly successful (>90%) and offers definitive treatment. We present the case of a 27-year-old woman with significant delayed post-partum hemorrhage after cesarean section who was found to have a UAP on imaging. Her tortuous vascular anatomy and spasmodic aneurysmal neck presented technical challenges to embolization with traditional material, such as gel foam and coils. Intra-arterial thrombin was then employed with good technical and clinical outcome. To our knowledge, this is the first case describing the use of intra-arterial thrombin in the treatment of UAP. Given its success in this case, we argue that intra-arterial thrombin should be considered a viable alternative for embolization of UAP when more traditional techniques fail. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical implications of coagulopathy in women with post-partum hemorrhage (PPH). Methods This retrospective cohort study included 262 consecutive women referred for management of PPH at a single tertiary hospital between 2009 and 2012. We reviewed medical records, including vital signs at arrival, laboratory values (hemoglobin, prothrombin time international normalized ratio [PT-INR], platelet, fibrinogen), and total amount of transfused blood product. Results of arterial embolization, need for hysterectomy, and significant morbidity such as pulmonary edema, endometritis or brain lesions were reviewed. Multivariate logistic analysis was used to identify risk of massive transfusion and significant morbidity. Results The prevalence of coagulopathy (PT-INR > 1.5) was 29.3% (77/262). Of the 262 women, pelvic arterial embolization was performed in 153 women, and was successful in 146 (95.4%). Hysterectomy was performed in 18 women (6.2%). The presence of coagulopathy led to increased risk for massive transfusion (odds ratio [OR], 23.96; 95%CI: 11.65-49.27), hysterectomy (OR, 9.94; 95%CI: 3.16-31.33), and significant morbidity (OR, 9.37; 95%CI: 4.95-17.75). Even after adjusting for other confounding factors, coagulopathy was independently associated with massive transfusion (adjusted OR, 12.24; 95%CI: 4.49-14.28), hysterectomy (adjusted OR, 4.66; 95%CI: 1.12-19.48), and significant morbidity (adjusted OR, 4.67; 95%CI: 2.05-10.64). Conclusion Coagulopathy in PPH is the single most important predictor for massive transfusion and hysterectomy, and is related to maternal morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) is a common complication of cesarean sections (CS) and affects maternal and newborn health. We used a new method to control bleeding and compared its efficacy with conventional methods. Methods Eighty-six women who experienced PPH with volume of bleeding over 1000 mL in CS between January 2008 and January 2012 were chosen as samples. Thirty-three underwent the new method in which normal saline ice blocks are placed in the uterus, and 53 underwent the conventional method. We evaluated blood loss, volume of transfusion and complications. Results Patients who were treated with ice blocks had better hemostatic efficacy than those who underwent the conventional method (1450 ± 251.9 mL vs 1800 ± 278.9 mL; P < 0.001); they also had less blood transfusion (806.1 ± 242.3 mL vs 1222.6 ± 308.0 mL; P < 0.001), lower rate of hysterectomy and infection (3.03% vs 5.66%; P = 0.971; 0% vs 7.55%; P = 0.276), and shorter duration of hospital stay (5.3 ± 0.5 days vs 7.6 ± 3.0 days; P < 0.001). Conclusion PPH in CS can be treated with peeled sterile normal saline ice blocks, a simple and reliable method for stopping bleeding. Nonetheless, there needs to be a large randomized control trial for confirmation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although pregnancy after transarterial embolization (TAE) has occasionally been reported, gelatin sponge was used as the embolic agent in most of these cases. Reports on the effect of TAE with permanent embolic agents such as N-butyl cyanoacrylate or coil on subsequent pregnancies are rare. We describe placenta accreta associated with difficult hemostasis in two patients who became pregnant after TAE with permanent embolic agents. In pregnancy after TAE with permanent embolic agents, placenta accreta occurs frequently and well-developed collateral vessels are highly likely, resulting in difficult hemostasis. Although the acceptability of pregnancy after TAE with permanent embolic agents is controversial, patients should be informed that pregnancy is extremely high risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Placental abruption is a severe obstetric complication of pregnancy that can cause disseminated intravascular coagulation and progress to massive post-partum hemorrhage. Coagulation disorder due to extreme consumption of fibrinogen is considered the main pathogenesis of disseminated intravascular coagulation in patients with placental abruption. The present study sought to determine if the pre-delivery fibrinogen level could predict adverse maternal or neonatal outcomes in patients with placental abruption. Methods This retrospective medical chart review was conducted in a center for maternal, fetal, and neonatal medicine in Japan with 61 patients with placental abruption. Fibrinogen levels prior to delivery were collected and evaluated for the prediction of maternal and neonatal outcomes. The main outcome measures for maternal outcomes were disseminated intravascular coagulation and hemorrhage, and the main outcome measures for neonatal outcomes were Apgar score at 5 min, umbilical artery pH, and stillbirth. Results The receiver-operator curve and multivariate logistic regression analyses indicated that fibrinogen significantly predicted overt disseminated intravascular coagulation and the requirement of ≥6 red blood cell units, ≥10 fresh frozen plasma units, and ≥20 fresh frozen plasma units for transfusion. Moderate hemorrhage occurred in 71.5% of patients with a decrease in fibrinogen levels to 155 mg/dL. Fibrinogen could also predict neonatal outcomes. Umbilical artery pH < 7.00 occurred in 77.1% of patients with a decrease in fibrinogen levels to ≤ 250 mg/dL. Conclusion Pre-delivery fibrinogen can predict adverse maternal as well as neonatal outcomes with placental abruption. © 2016 Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-delivery/-abortion uterine artery pseudoaneurysm (UAP) sometimes causes life-threatening bleeding, requiring transarterial embolization (TAE). It is unclear whether some UAP resolve spontaneously. In three patients, UAP resolved spontaneously without TAE. Case 1 was after vacuum delivery with slight bleeding: at day 5 post-partum, a yin-yang sign on Color Doppler and an enhanced intrauterine sac-like structure were observed, leading to the diagnosis of UAP, which disappeared at 4 weeks post-partum. Case 2 was after vacuum delivery with manual placental removal and was asymptomatic: a hypoechoic intrauterine mass with a yin-yang sign were observed during a post-partum routine check-up and the intrauterine flow disappeared at 4 weeks post-partum. Case 3 was after dilatation and curettage in the first trimester with slight bleeding: UAP was detected at 4 weeks post-abortion, which disappeared at 6 weeks post-abortion. All three cases had a small UAP (diameter: 10-15 mm) and low-level or no symptoms. Some UAP may resolve spontaneously and, thus, may not require TAE. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) caused by an occult abnormal artery detected shortly after delivery on pelvic angiography (PAG). Initially, a diagnosis of uterine atony was made because the apparent cause of hemorrhage was not detected via the usual obstetrical examination. An abnormal artery, however, was suspected on PAG and confirmed on pathology. This case suggests a novel cause of persistent PPH resistant to obstetric management. Obstetricians should be aware that an abnormal artery may cause PPH, and that radiology may be required for diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to provide basic documents applicable to studying the usefulness of administering fibrinogen concentrate to patients with massive post-partum hemorrhage. We investigated the usage of fibrinogen concentrate at training institutions for specialist physicians of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Material and Methods The subjects were women who required fibrinogen concentrate for hemostasis of post-partum hemorrhage during the period between April 2008 and March 2013. The underlying diseases, obstetric disseminated intravascular coagulation scores, blood loss, amount of blood transfusion, dose of fibrinogen concentrate administered, and plasma fibrinogen levels before and after the administration of fibrinogen concentrate were retrospectively investigated. Results Ninety-nine (98.0%) patients survived and two died after taking fibrinogen concentrate. Of the surviving 99 cases, the average amount of blood loss at the time of initial fibrinogen administration and total blood loss was 3559 ± 2103 mL and 4562 ± 3198 mL, respectively. The dose per administration was 3 g, and the plasma fibrinogen level before the initial administration of fibrinogen concentrate was 70.5 mg/dL, thereafter increasing to 187.0 mg/dL. The increase in the fibrinogen level was 32.9 mg/dL/g of fibrinogen concentrate. It was less than 150 mg/dL after the first administration of fibrinogen concentrate only in patients with amniotic fluid embolism and patients with atonic bleeding showed the smallest increase in fibrinogen per gram of fibrinogen concentrate. No adverse events, including thromboembolism, were reported. Conclusion The results indicated the increase in blood fibrinogen levels to, on occasion, be insufficient even with fibrinogen concentrate use; however, this survey may support the safety and usefulness of fibrinogen concentrate for PPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To investigate the utility of recombinant activated Factor VII (rFVIIa) for severe post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) in Japan. Methods We studied 69 patients treated with rFVIIa for severe PPH; 44 patients were from the registry of Japan Society of Obstetrical, Gynecological and Neonatal Hematology, and 25 were identified by a survey of the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology. Results Overall, the mean and median blood loss were 11 835 mL and 8639 mL, respectively. Treatment before rFVIIa included transarterial embolization in 23 patients and hysterectomy in 38. Forty-two patients had a single dose, 17 had two doses, and four had three doses. The mean (± SD) single dose was 81.60 ± 16.25 µg/kg. Sixty-five patients survived, and four died. The cause of PPH in patients who died was uterine rupture plus amniotic fluid embolism in two patients, uterine cervical laceration in one, and placental abruption in one. The amount of blood loss in cases of death was 6428-43 810 mL. This suggested that whether a patient survives or not was more dependent on her general condition before and after rFVIIa treatment than on the amount of blood loss. Four patients had thromboembolic events after rFVIIa treatment (deep vein thrombosis; deep vein thrombosis plus pulmonary embolism; acute myocardial infarction; and pulmonary embolism); all of these patients recovered. Conclusion The present promising results may support the utility of rFVIIa for severe PPH in Japan. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to investigate the long-term fertility prognosis after B- Lynch sutures for post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH). Methods A retrospective observational study was conducted on patients who underwent B- Lynch sutures in our hospital between 2005 and 2010. Patient data was collected from hospital records. Information regarding subsequent pregnancies and menstrual complications were obtained by posted questionnaires and telephone interviews with patients who avoided hysterectomy. Results A total of 28 B- Lynch sutures were performed in 3976 deliveries, all in patients that underwent cesarean section. Twenty-two of the 26 patients who avoided hysterectomy answered our questionnaire or took part in an interview. All patients recovered regular menstruation with no severe complications. Of the 19 patients who wanted another child, 12 patients (63.2%) had 14 subsequent pregnancies in a mean follow-up period of 52.1 months. The results of pregnancies were nine uncomplicated term pregnancies, all delivered by elective cesarean section, two artificial abortions and three miscarriages. A significant difference was observed in the age of patients with subsequent pregnancies and those without pregnancies (30.8 vs 34.6 years, P = 0.04). Conclusion B- Lynch sutures for PPH do not appear to jeopardize fecundity. An older age was a risk factor for achieving subsequent pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective To investigate whether inter-professional simulation training influenced the rate of red blood cell ( RBC) transfusions after birth. Design Two cohorts were compared retrospectively using a pre-post design. Setting Norwegian university hospital with 4800 deliveries annually. Population Women with estimated blood loss >500 mL within 24 h after birth in 2009 and 2011. Methods In 2010, all maternity staff attended a 6-h, scenario-based training on emergency obstetrics including postpartum hemorrhage, using a birthing simulator. The simulation focused on prevention, identification, and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage and on communication and leadership. Debrief immediately after the scenarios involved reflection and self-assessment. Main outcome measures The frequency of women receiving RBC transfusions as a marker for blood loss. Secondary outcome was the frequency of surgical procedures in the management of postpartum hemorrhage. Results In 2009, 111/534 (20.8%) women with estimated blood loss >500 mL after birth received RBC transfusions vs. 67/546 (12.3%) in 2011 ( p < 0.01). The adjusted odds ratio for women receiving RBC transfusions in 2011 vs. 2009 was 0.53 (95% CI 0.38-0.74). Parity, oxytocin augmentation, duration of second stage, episiotomy, operative vaginal delivery, and sphincter injury were included in the final model. The odds ratio was stable in all combinations of possible confounders. We observed a significant reduction in the frequencies of curettage ( p < 0.01) and uterine artery embolizations ( p = 0.01). Conclusion We found a significant reduction in RBC transfusions after birth, which might be associated with mandatory simulation training. A causal link cannot be documented because of complex interactions of several variables. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Identify women at risk of severe post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH) by building a prediction model based on clinical variables available at PPH diagnosis. Methods We analyzed data on a cohort of 7236 women with PPH after vaginal delivery from 106 maternity units. Severe PPH was defined as the loss of more than 2000 mL of blood, peripartum drop in hemoglobin of 4 g/dL or more, transfusion of at least four packed red blood cells, embolization, hemostasis surgery, transfer to an intensive care unit or death. The Akaike criterion helped selecting the covariates of a multivariate logistic regression model. The performance of the model was studied through building a receiver-operator curve ( ROC). The relative utility of the final model was used to determine the importance of the model in decision-making. Results Among all PPH, the prevalence of severe cases was 18.5%. Several clinical variables were significantly associated with severe PPH (e.g. parity, multiple pregnancy, labor induction, instrumental delivery). The multivariate prediction model was built. The area under the ROC for prediction of severe cases was 0.63 (95% confidence interval, 0.62-0.65). Nevertheless, the sensitivity and specificity of the prediction model were 0.49 and 0.70, respectively, for a threshold at 0.20 (near prevalence). The relative utility was 0.19 for a threshold near prevalence (20%). Conclusion Because of important misclassifications, even the best model we could build with the available clinical data cannot be reasonably recommended for routine use. Every patient with PPH should receive most optimal management. Other types of information, possibly laboratory data, are probably needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim With the increasing rate of cesarean delivery ( CD) worldwide, there is a need for a revision of practices to prevent post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH) after CD. In search of a safe, cheap and effective alternative to oxytocin for prevention of PPH during the postoperative period of CD, the present study aimed to compare rectally administrated misoprostol with i.v. oxytocin infusion. Methods A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind prospective trial was undertaken on 192 women who did not have risk factors for PPH and who had an uneventful emergency CD under spinal anesthesia. They were randomly allocated to receive either 800 mg of rectal misoprostol or an i.v. infusion of oxytocin at the end of operation. Primary outcome measures were the amount of postoperative (24 h) blood loss and incidence of PPH during the postoperative period. The secondary outcome measures were the postoperative drop in hemoglobin concentration after 24 h, need for additional uterotonic and blood transfusion, and side-effects/complications during the 24-h observation period. Results There was a significant reduction of blood loss in the misoprostol group compared with the oxytocin group (144.5 ± 100.1 vs 191.7 ± 117.1, P < 0.0001). The two groups were similar in terms of the secondary outcome parameters. Conclusion Rectally administrated 800-mg misoprostol may be an effective alternative to oxytocin infusion to prevent PPH after CD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The aim of this study was to elucidate the clinical characteristics and risk factors for amniotic fluid embolism ( AFE). Methods We performed a retrospective case study analysis of patients using medical records and autopsy records. The diagnosis of AFE was based on the presence of clinical symptoms using Clark's criteria and autopsy results. We analyzed patient records from a 29-year period in three hospitals affiliated with the Nippon Medical School in Japan. Results Ten diagnoses of AFE were found in the records. First, we classified AFE patients into two types based on the initial presenting symptoms: post-partum hemorrhage and cardiopulmonary collapse. Fifty percent of the patients initially presented with post-partum hemorrhage and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Most were diagnosed with post-partum hemorrhage or uterine atony at AFE onset. Similarly, 50% presented with cardiopulmonary arrest or pulmonary arrest as initial symptoms, and most were diagnosed with eclampsia. Second, risk factors for AFE included advanced maternal age, multiparity, increased intrauterine pressure and disruptions of the uterine vasculature. Third, the case fatality rate was 70%. Fourth, squamous cells were observed in maternal central venous blood of five patients. Conclusion AFE patients were classified into two types based on presenting signs and symptoms. Knowledge of the various initial symptoms of AFE enables a correct diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 34-year-old full-term pregnant woman presented with abruptly aggravating dyspnea. A chest X-ray showed pulmonary edema, and an echocardiogram revealed a left ventricular ejection fraction of 39%. Despite conventional medical treatment for acute heart failure and mechanical ventilation, hypoxia and metabolic acidosis were aggravated, and the fetal heart rate decreased to 90 b.p.m., suggestive of fetal distress. We decided to initiate extracorporeal membrane oxygenation ( ECMO) and perform a cesarean section. The infant was successfully delivered without hypoxic brain damage. The patient was weaned from ECMO 6 days after delivery and was extubated 1 day after discontinuation of ECMO. Left ventricular systolic function had completely recovered at this time. This is the first report of a patient with peripartum cardiomyopathy who had a successful delivery with the support of ECMO, demonstrating that ECMO can serve as a rescue therapy, not only treating peripartum cardiomyopathy but also permitting a safe delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Massive post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH) is an important cause of maternal death that occurs as a complication of delivery. We report a large case series to evaluate the efficacy of uterine balloon tamponade to treat PPH avoiding hysterectomy. Material and Methods This prospective study was conducted in two Italian hospitals (from December 2002 to July 2012). Fifty-two patients with PPH not responsive to uterotonics were treated by Rusch balloon. A follow-up was conducted among the study population to assess the subsequent fertility. Results The most frequent cause of PPH was atony (59.6%), followed by placenta previa (21.2%), placenta accreta (9.6%), and placenta previa and accreta (9.6%). The balloon success rate to control hemorrhage was 75%. From the sample of 52 patients, 13 patients needed additional procedures. In three failure cases, other conservative techniques were used and the overall effectiveness of them was 80.7%. The follow-up group consisted of 31 women. Of these women, 24 women (77.4%) had no further pregnancies, but only one due to sterility. Four of seven patients with subsequent pregnancies made it to term without complications. Conclusions The Rusch balloon is effective in controlling non-traumatic PPH in 75% of cases. It is simple to use, readily available and cheap. If necessary, this technique does not exclude other procedures. We suggest that this balloon should be included routinely in the PPH protocol. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim The study investigated the effectiveness of sublingual misoprostol when used as primary treatment of primary post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH) in a low-income country. Methods Maternity care providers in three Nigerian hospitals administrated 800 μm sublingual misoprostol to women experiencing PPH. The outcome variables were estimated blood loss and the need for additional uterotonic drugs after initial treatment with misoprostol. Entry criteria included women in term spontaneous labor, while exclusion criteria were women with operative delivery and those experiencing PPH not due to atonic uterus. Results One hundred and thirty-one women with PPH were treated over 6 months. Estimated blood loss ranged 500-2500 mL. Twenty women (15.3%) required additional uterotonic drugs to control continuing blood loss. There were no maternal deaths, while seven perinatal deaths were recorded. Conclusion We conclude that although sublingual misoprostol is effective in reducing blood loss due to PPH, it does not effectively treat all forms of PPH. Additional uterotonics and other ancillary treatments would be required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim Post-partum hemorrhage ( PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality. Identification of the precise bleeding site is generally important to control hemorrhage, but such an approach has not been fully established in the context of PPH. We postulated that visualization of bleeding sites could aid treatment decisions in the management of PPH. Methods We conducted a prospective review of 26 patients who underwent dynamic computed tomography ( CT) for PPH. Results A total of 17 cases presented with uterine bleeding, eight with vaginal hematomas, and one with hemoperitoneum. Overall, dynamic CT identified contrast media extravasation in the arterial phase in 12 of 26 (46.2%) cases: the upper ( n = 4) and the lower uterine segment including the cervix ( n = 2), subfascial space ( n = 1) and vagina ( n = 5). Identification of precise arterial bleeding sites using CT provided informative guidance about where to place balloons for intractable uterine bleeding, and how to manage hemoperitoneum and vaginal hematomas. In addition, dynamic CT revealed the existence of a subtype of uterine atony, which is characterized by focal active arterial bleeding in the upper uterine segment. Furthermore, negative contrast extravasation extracted cases of PPH that were well controlled without the need for surgical or radiological intervention. No patient required emergency hysterectomy to control PPH. Conclusion Dynamic CT has potential clinical utility in treatment decision-making for PPH. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The aim of this work was to compare the effect of intraumbilical injection of three different uterotonic solutions in the management of retained placenta. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in Ain-Shams University Maternity Hospital, Cairo, Egypt. A total of 78 women with retained placenta (>30 min after delivery of the fetus) were included in the study and subdivided into three groups. Each group was injected with a different type of uterotonic into the umbilical vein after clamping it using the Pipingas technique. Uterotonics used were either 20 IU oxytocin dissolved in 30 mL saline ( n = 26), ergometrine 0.2 mg dissolved in 30 mL saline ( n = 27) or misoprostol 800 µg dissolved in 30 mL saline ( n = 25). Results: The overall success rate of spontaneous placental separation within 30 min after intraumbilical injection of uterotonics was 56/78 (71.79%). The success rate was higher with misoprostol when compared to oxytocin and ergometrine but the difference was not significant (20/25 [80%], 19/26 [73.08%], 17/27 [62.96%], respectively, P > 0.05). The injection-to-separation interval was significantly shorter in the misoprostol group than in the oxytocin and ergometrine groups (7.0 ± 2.2 min, 13.14 ± 3.76 min, 22.5 ± 4.37 min, respectively, P < 0.001). Conclusion: Intraumbilical injection of uterotonics, namely oxytocin, ergometrine and dissolved misoprostol in saline, are closely effective in the management of retained placenta, with misoprostol being slightly more effective. This method may have a role in minimizing the need for manual removal of the placenta and its adverse sequelae. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 36-year-old primipara woman was referred to the interventional department for management of severe primary post-partum hemorrhage with a vaginal laceration after a normal vaginal delivery. Angiography revealed that the superior rectal branch of the inferior mesenteric artery was one of the origins of persistent vaginal bleeding following embolization of both uterine arteries. The patient was successfully treated by selective embolization without other complications. Our case report highlights that the inferior mesenteric artery should be considered as an unusual extrauterine source for post-partum hemorrhage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To compare the efficacy of a single dose of 100 µg intramuscular carbetocin to a single dose of intramuscular syntometrine (0.5 mg ergometrine and 5IU oxytocin), in preventing post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) in high risk patients following vaginal delivery. Methods: A prospective, randomized controlled study was conducted in a tertiary hospital where 120 pregnant women with risk factors for PPH who delivered vaginally were randomized into two groups: the study group where 100 µg intramuscular carbetocin was administered and the control group, who received intramuscular syntometrine. Outcome measures compared included changes in vital signs, amount of intrapartum blood loss, uterine fundal position, addition of another oxytocic agent, side-effects of the drugs, amount of lochia and hemoglobin drop after 24 hours post-partum. Incidence of PPH or other adverse events were also compared. Results: There were no significant differences in terms of requirement for additional oxytocic agents, time interval to well contracted uterus, blood transfusion requirements, adverse effects or complications. There was a significantly lower mean estimated blood loss in the carbetocin group compared to the syntometrine group (244 ± 114 mL vs 343 ± 143 mL, 95% CI 52–146 mL). There was also a significantly reduced drop in hemoglobin in the carbetocin group compared to the syntometrine group (0.3 ± 0.2 g/dL vs 0.4 ± 0.2 g/dL, 95% CI 0.1–0.2 g/dL). Conclusion: Intramuscular carbetocin may be more effective than intramuscular syntometrine in reducing post-partum blood loss and the drop in hemoglobin level. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical success of selective arterial embolization in cases of post-partum hemorrhage due to abnormal placentation. Methods: Six patients with persistent hemorrhage and abnormal placental implantation underwent uterine artery embolization over a period of three years. Results: In four patients, the placenta was left in place after a gentle attempt at removal and post-partum hemorrhage was controlled during or shortly after the procedure. In all cases, embolization was possible even when there was previous arterial ligation (two cases). In one case, a hysterectomy was required at 21 d later due to uterus and bladder necrosis. Arterial embolization in cases of abnormal placental implantation remains an uncommon treatment and is less efficient in these cases than in normal placental implantation. Conclusion: Our results confirmed that even in cases of moderate bleeding, conservation treatment and embolization are possible, but that complications may be more common than in normal placentation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Post-partum hemorrhage may be a life-threatening condition. A case of a patient receiving antithrombotic therapy for the factor V Leiden mutation, in whom post-partum hemorrhage had occurred due to placenta increta, is described. In this case, the post-partum hemorrhage did not respond to bilateral hypogastric artery ligation, while the B-Lynch surgical technique was successful in obtaining hemostasis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]