Trauma and Surgical Emergencies in the Obstetric Patient

Obstetrics in trauma

Trauma in pregnancy is the leading non-obstetrical cause of maternal death and remains the most common cause of foetal demise. Many diagnostic and management challenges are present when dealing with the injured pregnant patient. Anatomical and physiological variations of pregnancy need to be understood in order to adapt medical management and overcome the numerous challenges which exist for such patients. The relative unfamiliarity of anatomical and physiological changes experienced in pregnancy means great care must be taken when managing such patients, especially in high energy trauma injuries. Review of the available evidence provides an epidemiological understanding for provision of trauma services. Obstetrics in trauma is a relative rare condition in the United Kingdom, however evidence based in the UK regarding the epidemiology is limited. This article also outlines the principle factors for the assessment and treatment of the injured obstetric patients, as well as discussing areas of ongoing uncertainty.

Fetal outcome in the critically ill pregnant woman

Management of the critically ill pregnant woman is complicated by potential adverse effects of both maternal illness and ICU interventions on the fetus. This paper reviews the potential risks to the fetus of maternal critical illness, including shock, hypoxemia, and fever, as well as the effects of critical care management, such as drug therapy and radiological investigations. The authors’ recommended approach to management is provided. Prior publications and new data presented identify that there is insufficient information to prognosticate accurately on fetal outcome after maternal critical illness, although maternal shock, hypoxemia and early gestational age are likely significant risk factors.

Trauma in pregnancy: an updated systematic review

We reviewed recent data on the prevalence, risk factors, complications, and management of trauma during pregnancy. Using the terms "trauma" and "pregnancy" along with specified mechanisms of injury, we queried the PubMed database for studies reported from Jan. 1, 1990, through May 1, 2012. Studies with the largest number of patients for a given injury type and that were population-based and/or prospective were included. Case reports and case series were used only when more robust studies were lacking. A total of 1164 abstracts were reviewed and 225 met criteria for inclusion. Domestic violence/intimate partner violence and motor vehicle crashes are the predominant causes of reported trauma during pregnancy. Management of trauma during pregnancy is dictated by its severity and should be initially geared toward maternal stabilization. Minor trauma can often be safely evaluated with simple diagnostic modalities. Pregnancy should not lead to underdiagnosis or undertreatment of trauma due to unfounded fears of fetal effects. More studies are required to elucidate the safest and most cost-effective strategies for the management of trauma in pregnancy.

Trauma in pregnancy

In the United States, trauma is the leading nonobstetric cause of maternal death. The principal causes of trauma in pregnancy include motor vehicle accidents, falls, assaults, homicides, domestic violence, and penetrating wounds. The managing team evaluating and coordinating the care of the pregnant trauma patient should be multidisciplinary so that it is able to understand the physiologic changes in pregnancy. Blunt trauma to the abdomen increases the risk of placental abruption. Evaluation of the pregnant trauma patient requires a primary and secondary survey with emphasis on airway, breathing, circulation, and disability. The use of imaging studies, invasive hemodynamics, critical care medications, and surgery, if necessary, should be individualized and guided by a coordinating team effort to improve maternal and fetal conditions. A clear understanding of gestational age and fetal viability should be documented in the record.