Tisseel for management of traumatic postpartum haemorrhage

Following the introduction of haemostatic agents, new opportunities are available when facing problematic bleeding. We report the first case of traumatic postpartum hemorrhage successfully controlled with a fibrin sealant.

26-year nulliparous patient had a rotational forceps delivery and developed multiple vaginal lacerations. Haemostasis could not be achieved after suturing, vaginal packing and IV tranaxemic acid. She lost approx. 3,500 ml blood and received 4 U transfusion. Tisseel was used as a thin layer on vaginal wall and bleeding settled. She had good recovery and perineum healed well.

Tisseel consists of a two-component fibrin biomatrix to stop diffuse bleeding. When the tissues are very oedematous, it can be difficult to insert sutures. We tried this innovative option with very effective results. The absence of long-term complications is reassuring and we recommend its use in similarly extreme situations.