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Autopsy study of maternal deaths
A N Kavatkar1, N S Sahasrabudhe, M V Jadhav
1Department of Pathology, B.J. Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India. kavatkaranita@rediffmail.com
Summary
Maternal autopsies revealed that hypertensive disorders and anemia were leading causes of death. Autopsy findings elucidated contributing factors and organ system pathologies in maternal mortality.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Pathology
- Forensic Medicine
Background:
- Maternal mortality remains a significant global health concern.
- Understanding the specific causes of maternal death is crucial for prevention strategies.
- Autopsies provide critical insights into the pathological processes leading to death.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the underlying causes and pathologies in maternal deaths.
- To establish clinicopathologic correlations in cases of maternal mortality.
- To identify key factors contributing to maternal deaths through autopsy.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 95 maternal autopsies conducted between 1993 and 2000.
- Comprehensive examination including external, in situ, gross, and microscopic evaluation.
- Correlation of clinical data, investigations, and morphological findings to determine cause of death.
Main Results:
- Autopsies were performed in 45.02% of 211 maternal deaths.
- Direct obstetric deaths accounted for 49.5%, indirect for 34.7%, and unrelated causes for 15.8%.
- Infections were noted in 14 of the deaths unrelated to pregnancy.
Conclusions:
- Hypertensive disorders (24.2%) and anemia (14.7%) were the most frequent causes of maternal death.
- Disseminated intravascular coagulation, organ hemorrhages, and thromboemboli were significant findings in hypertensive cases.
- Autopsies effectively identified contributing factors and organ system pathologies in maternal mortality.