Umbilical vein injection for retained placenta: clinical feasibility study of a new technique

Intraumbilical oxytocin infusion for retained placenta is a relatively new and promising technique. We have tested the clinical feasibility of different infusion techniques in this study. Nine patients had intraumbilical infusions through a mucus aspiration catheter and 12 by an 18 gauge needle. Infusion was successful in 7(77.7%) of 9 cases following catheterisation and in 7(58.3%) of 12 cases following direct injection. Both techniques were clinically feasible, but direct injection was somewhat easier than catheterisation. The importance of non-operative management of retained placenta, particularly in areas with limited medical facilities, is discussed and an approach to the management of retained placenta proposed.