Factors influencing pregnancy outcome after trauma

Trauma complicating pregnancy represents a significant threat to maternal survival and successful pregnancy outcome. Combining trauma center and perinatal center capabilities may provide improved outcome for pregnant trauma victims. The authors report their experience with 39 patients over a 10-year period to identify factors that influenced pregnancy outcome. There was 100 per cent maternal survival with a 77 per cent successful pregnancy rate. Unsuccessful pregnancy was associated with significantly higher injury severity score (ISS); regional abdominal abbreviated injury scores (AIS) and hospital charges; longer hospital and intensive care unit lengths of stay; a higher incidence of intubation and placenta abruptio; and a lower admission systolic blood pressure. Fetal ultrasound or Doppler were routinely used and contributed to trauma management. These findings support close cooperation and coordination of trauma and perinatal services to achieve optimal maternal and pregnancy outcomes.