International journal of obstetric anesthesia
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2018
Multicenter StudyRetrospective study to investigate fresh frozen plasma and packed cell ratios when administered for women with postpartum hemorrhage, before and after introduction of a massive transfusion protocol.
Administration of packed red blood cells (PRBC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to women with postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) before and after introduction of a massive transfusion protocol. ⋯ Among women with PPH receiving ≥3 PRBC units within a short period of time, it appears that factors other than the existence of our massive transfusion protocol influence the number and ratio of PRBC and FFP units transfused. Blood products were not transfused according to exact ratios, even when guided by a protocol.
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Sepsis remains a leading cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. Recognition and treatment of maternal sepsis are often delayed due to the physiological adaptations of pregnancy and vague or absent signs and symptoms during its initial presentation. ⋯ In this narrative review, we summarize the available evidence about sepsis and provide an overview of the research efforts focused on maternal sepsis to date. Controversies and challenges surrounding the anesthetic management of parturients with sepsis or at risk of developing sepsis during pregnancy or the puerperium will be highlighted.
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Int J Obstet Anesth · Nov 2018
Case ReportsPostpartum hemoptysis as presenting sign of longstanding vasculitis.
We present the case of a 26-year-old postpartum patient who presented with an episode of desaturation and hemoptysis on postpartum day three after an uncomplicated spontaneous vaginal delivery. The patient came to our attention in the postpartum area after she experienced massive hemoptysis and we were called by the obstetric team. ⋯ Her intensive care unit course was complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome, acute kidney injury and a pulmonary embolism, but she recovered well and was discharged on postpartum day 23. This report describes a rare case of medium vessel vasculitis diagnosed in the peripartum period, and describes the diagnostic dilemmas underlying making a rare diagnosis, and the difficulties initiating appropriate therapy in a postpartum patient.