Abdominal packing in postpartum hemorrhage: A forgotten life-saving technique

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Surgical Interventions
• Critical Care Medicine

Background:

• Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) is a leading cause of maternal mortality.
• Abdominal packing is a last-resort intervention for intractable bleeding.
• This study evaluates abdominal packing for severe PPH.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of abdominal packing in controlling refractory PPH.
• To analyze patient outcomes, including complications and survival rates.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective review of 11 patients undergoing abdominal packing for severe obstetric hemorrhage (2005-2023).
• Primary outcome: immediate hemorrhage control and hemodynamic stabilization.
• Secondary outcomes: transfusion needs, complications, and hospital stay.

Main Results:

• Abdominal packing successfully controlled bleeding in all 11 patients post-hysterectomy.
• Median hospital stay was 6 days; all patients required transfusions.
• Pulmonary edema occurred in 90.9% of patients; all survived.

Conclusions:

• Abdominal packing is a valuable temporary measure for severe, refractory obstetric hemorrhage.
• Careful patient selection and vigilant postoperative monitoring are crucial for optimal outcomes.