[Intractable postpartum haemorrhage treated with selective arterial embolization]

Postpartum haemorrhage is a major contributor to maternal morbidity and mortality.

In this case report we present a patient with intractable postpartum haemorrhage, successfully treated with selective arterial embolisation of the uterine arteries.

In most cases, primary postpartum haemorrhage can be managed with conservative treatment involving uterine massage, uterotonic drugs and uterine/vaginal packing. With persistent bleeding, vascular ligation or hysterectomy may be needed. Surgical treatment may be technically difficult and may fail to control haemorrhage. For these reasons, selective arterial embolisation of the uterine arteries represents an interesting alternative that allows preservation of future fertility.