Amniotic fluid embolism: diagnosis and management

Amniotic fluid embolism rescued using venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation without initial anticoagulation: A case report and literature review

RATIONALE

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a fatal obstetric condition that often rapidly leads to severe respiratory and circulatory failure. It is complicated by obstetric disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) with bleeding tendency; therefore, the introduction of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is challenging. We report the case of a patient with AFE requiring massive blood transfusion, rescued using VA-ECMO without initial anticoagulation.

PATIENTS CONCERNS

A 39-year-old pregnant patient was admitted with a complaint of abdominal pain. An emergency cesarean section was performed because a sudden decrease in fetal heart rate was detected in addition to DIC with hyperfibrinolysis. Intra- and post-operatively, the patient had a bleeding tendency and required massive blood transfusions. After surgery, the patient developed lethal respiratory and circulatory failure, and VA-ECMO was introduced.

DIAGNOSIS

Based on the course of the illness and imaging findings, the patient was diagnosed with AFE.

INTERVENTIONS

By controlling the bleeding tendency with a massive transfusion and tranexamic acid administration, using an antithrombotic ECMO circuit, and delaying the initiation of anticoagulation and anti-DIC medication until the bleeding tendency settled, the patient was managed safely on ECMO without complications.

OUTCOMES

By day 5, both respiration and circulation were stable, and the patient was weaned off VA-ECMO. Mechanical ventilation was discontinued on day 6. Finally, she was discharged home without sequelae.

LESSONS

VA-ECMO may be effective to save the lives of patients who have AFE with lethal circulatory and respiratory failure. For safe management without bleeding complications, it is important to start VA-ECMO without initial anticoagulants and to administer anticoagulants and anti-DIC drugs after the bleeding tendency has resolved.

Anesthetic Considerations and Outcomes in Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Retrospective Study over a 15-Year Period

(1) Background: A rare and unexpected consequence of childbirth, labor, or the immediate postpartum period is amniotic fluid embolism (AFE). This study aims to identify AFE cases during or immediately after birth from anesthetic management perspectives. Secondary goals include assessing patient clinical features, obstetric care techniques, birth outcomes, and case survival. (2) Methods: A retrospective observational study assessed AFE patients hospitalized in three Romanian clinical institutions from October 2007 to April 2023. Based on the Society of Maternal-Fetal Medicine (SMFM) criteria, we diagnosed 11 AFE patients. (3) Results: AFE occurred in eight cases (73%) during peripartum, two (18%) within 30 min after placental delivery, and 1 (9%) during a scheduled cesarean surgery. Only one of six cardiorespiratory arrest patients responded to external cardiac massage, while the other five (83%) needed defibrillation. The patients received, on average, five units of red blood cells, six of fresh frozen plasma, and two of activated platelets. Six patients (55%) received factor VIIa infusions. Maternal mortality was 36.3%. Six neonates (75%) needed neonatal resuscitation, and two (25%) died on the second and third days. (4) Conclusions: AFE management necessitates a multidisciplinary approach and the incorporation of advanced life support techniques to optimize outcomes for both the mother and newborn.

A Case of Consumptive Coagulopathy Before Cardiopulmonary Failure in Amniotic Fluid Embolism and Review of Literature: A Perspective of the Latent Onset and Progression of Coagulopathy

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) induces cardiopulmonary insufficiency with consumptive coagulopathy. Previous studies reported that refractory coagulopathy has already advanced at the onset of maternal cardiovascular and/or respiratory symptoms. However, when the consumption of coagulation factors starts during the clinical course, AFE remains to be elucidated. We report an intrapartum AFE case of consumptive coagulopathy before dyspnea with hypotension developing during urgent cesarean delivery that was revealed by non-reassuring fetal heart rate tracing. The patient, a 42-year-old multiparous parturient, underwent induced labor after a premature rupture of membranes in week 39 of pregnancy. Coagulation screening was initially within the normal range. Fetal heart rate monitoring demonstrated bradycardia coincided with uterine tachysystole after three hours, which required urgent cesarean section with preoperative blood screening. The hemoglobin level was maintained at 129 g/L; however, the fibrinogen value reduced to 1.79 g/L with D-dimer elevation over 60 µg/mL. Ninety minutes later, she developed dyspnea with hypotension at suturing hysterotomy. At the end of surgery, her fibrinogen further decreased to below 0.3 g/L with prolonged prothrombin time. After vigorous intensive care, she was discharged without sequelae. Consumptive coagulopathy may initiate and progress before apparent cardiopulmonary symptoms in some AFE cases. Non-reassuring fetal heart rate tracing concomitant with abrupt uterine tachysystole and/or hypertonus may be an earlier time point for the detection and intervention of AFE-related coagulopathy.

Amniotic fluid embolism: a reappraisal

OBJECTIVES

Using cases from our own experience and from the published literature on amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), we seek to improve on existing criteria for diagnosis and discern associated risk factors. Additionally, we propose a novel theory of pathophysiology.

METHODS

This retrospective case review includes eight cases of AFE from two hospital systems and 21 from the published literature. All cases were evaluated using the modified criteria for research reporting of AFE by Clark et al. in Am J Obstet Gynecol, 2016;215:408-12 as well as our proposed criteria for diagnosis. Additional clinical and demographic characteristics potentially correlated with a risk of AFE were included and analyzed using descriptive analysis.

RESULTS

The incidence of AFE was 2.9 per 100,000 births, with five maternal deaths in 29 cases (17.2 %) in our series. None of the cases met Clark's criteria while all met our criteria. 62.1 % of patients were over the age of 32 years and two out of 29 women (6.9 %) conceived through in-vitro fertilization. 6.5 % of cases were complicated by fetal death. Placenta previa occurred in 13.8 %. 86.2 % of women had cesarean sections of which 52.0 % had no acute maternal indication.

CONCLUSIONS

Our criteria identify more patients with AFE than others with a low likelihood of false positives. Clinical and demographic associations in our review are consistent with those previously reported. A possible relationship between cesarean birth and risk of AFE was identified using our criteria. Additionally, we propose a new hypothesis of pathophysiology.

Amniotic fluid embolism: A case report of good outcome with timely intensive multidisciplinary team involvement

OBJECTIVE

Amniotic fluid embolism is one of the most serious pregnancy complications. It can cause sudden maternal collapse with high mortality and morbidity. We present a case report regarding the important of prompt decision making and multidisciplinary team work for management of amniotic fluid embolism to yield favorable maternal and neonatal outcome.

CASE REPORT

This is a 35-year-old, gravida 2, para 1, woman underwent labor induction at gestational age of 37 + 6 weeks due to elective induction. She had sudden facial cyanosis and shortness of breath right after artificial rupture of membrane. Prompt decision of urgent cesarean section, aggressive and timely massive blood transfusion and multidisciplinary team work had spared patient from extracorporeal membrane oxygenation placement and prolonged hospitalization. A male infant was born with Apgar score 3' -> 5' with estimate body weight of 2958 gm; he was hospitalized for 10 days and no other complications was found at follow up pediatric outpatient clinic.

CONCLUSION

One of the most dreadful, but rare pregnancy complications is amniotic fluid embolism (AFE). It can cause serious maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality. Rapid recognition and multidisciplinary team management are essential to maternal and neonatal prognosis.

Medical Emergencies in the Pregnant Patient

This review article provides a comprehensive overview of common medical emergencies that can occur in pregnant patients. We summarize the key diagnostic and management steps for each emergency to assist health care professionals in identifying and treating these potentially life-threatening conditions. The medical emergencies discussed in this article include postpartum hemorrhage; hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP) syndrome; acute fatty liver of pregnancy; amniotic fluid embolism; pulmonary embolism; acute respiratory distress syndrome; and shock. Each condition is described in detail, with a focus on the clinical presentation, diagnostic workup, and treatment options. The information presented in this review article is based on current best practices and guidelines from leading medical organizations. We hope this article will serve as a valuable resource for health care professionals who care for pregnant patients and help improve outcomes for these patients in emergency situations.

Amniotic Fluid Embolism: a comparison of two classification systems in a retrospective 8-year analysis from two tertiary hospitals

OBJECTIVE

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare life-threatening complication in obstetrics, but the diagnosis lacks a consensual definition. The objective of this study was to compare two different AFE classification systems by analysing the AFE cases from two university hospitals.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

In this retrospective study, all patients with a strong suspicion of AFE between 2014 and 2021 at two university hospitals, LMU Women's University Hospital Munich, and Women's University Hospital Basel, were included. Patient records were checked for the ICD-10 code O88.1 (AFE). Diagnoses were confirmed through clinical findings and/or autopsy. The presence of the diagnostic criteria of the Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine (SMFM) and the AFE Foundation (AFEF) and of a new framework by Ponzio-Klijanienko et al. from Paris, France, were checked and compared using Chi-square-test.

RESULTS

Within our study period, 38,934 women delivered in the two hospitals. Six patients had a strong suspicion of AFE (0.015%). Only three of six patients (50%) presented with all the four diagnostic criteria of the SMFM/AFEF framework. All six patients met the criteria of the modified "Paris AFE framework".

CONCLUSION

Using the "Paris AFE framework" based exclusively on clinical criteria can help clinicians to diagnose AFE, anticipate the life-threatening condition of the patient and prepare immediately for best clinical care.

SHock-INduced Endotheliopathy (SHINE): A mechanistic justification for viscoelastography-guided resuscitation of traumatic and non-traumatic shock

Irrespective of the reason for hypoperfusion, hypocoagulable and/or hyperfibrinolytic hemostatic aberrancies afflict up to one-quarter of critically ill patients in shock. Intensivists and traumatologists have embraced the concept of SHock-INduced Endotheliopathy (SHINE) as a foundational derangement in progressive shock wherein sympatho-adrenal activation may cause systemic endothelial injury. The pro-thrombotic endothelium lends to micro-thrombosis, enacting a cycle of worsening perfusion and increasing catecholamines, endothelial injury, de-endothelialization, and multiple organ failure. The hypocoagulable/hyperfibrinolytic hemostatic phenotype is thought to be driven by endothelial release of anti-thrombogenic mediators to the bloodstream and perivascular sympathetic nerve release of tissue plasminogen activator directly into the microvasculature. In the shock state, this hemostatic phenotype may be a counterbalancing, yet maladaptive, attempt to restore blood flow against a systemically pro-thrombotic endothelium and increased blood viscosity. We therefore review endothelial physiology with emphasis on glycocalyx function, unique biomarkers, and coagulofibrinolytic mediators, setting the stage for understanding the pathophysiology and hemostatic phenotypes of SHINE in various etiologies of shock. We propose that the hyperfibrinolytic phenotype is exemplified in progressive shock whether related to trauma-induced coagulopathy, sepsis-induced coagulopathy, or post-cardiac arrest syndrome-associated coagulopathy. Regardless of the initial insult, SHINE appears to be a catecholamine-driven entity which early in the disease course may manifest as hyper- or hypocoagulopathic and hyper- or hypofibrinolytic hemostatic imbalance. Moreover, these hemostatic derangements may rapidly evolve along the thrombohemorrhagic spectrum depending on the etiology, timing, and methods of resuscitation. Given the intricate hemochemical makeup and changes during these shock states, macroscopic whole blood tests of coagulative kinetics and clot strength serve as clinically useful and simple means for hemostasis phenotyping. We suggest that viscoelastic hemostatic assays such as thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) are currently the most applicable clinical tools for assaying global hemostatic function-including fibrinolysis-to enable dynamic resuscitation with blood products and hemostatic adjuncts for those patients with thrombotic and/or hemorrhagic complications in shock states.

Amniotic fluid embolism‐induced cardiopulmonary collapse successfully treated with combination VA‐ECMO and Impella CP

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but potentially fatal complication of pregnancy. Prompt and aggressive resuscitative strategies are crucial in promoting survivability. We present a case of AFE resulting in cardiopulmonary collapse and subsequent cardiac arrest where we were able to safely deliver the baby and resuscitate the mother with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and Impella CP-a novel combination known as ECPELLA. We discuss the implications of this approach as a more efficacious strategy in resuscitating AFE-induced cardiogenic shock and arrest.

The role of tranexamic acid in the management of postpartum haemorrhage

In the last decades, tranexamic acid (TXA) has emerged as an essential tool in blood loss management in obstetrics. TXA prophylaxis for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) has been studied in double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized clinical trials (RCTs). Given the small observed preventive effect, the systematic use of TXA for vaginal and/or caesarean deliveries remains controversial. The result of a pharmacokinetic modelling suggests that relative to intravenous administration, intramuscular administration may be an equally effective alternative route for preventing PPH and may enable access to this drug in low-resource countries. Prophylaxis is currently studied in high-risk populations, such as women with prepartum anaemia or placenta previa. TXA effectively reduces blood loss and PPH-related morbidity and mortality during active PPH, as demonstrated by high-grade evidence from large RCTs. The drug has a good safety profile: in most cases, only mild gastrointestinal or visual adverse events may be observed. TXA use does not increase the risk of serious adverse events, such as venous or arterial thromboembolism, seizures, or acute kidney injury. The TRACES in vivo analysis of biomarkers of TXA's antifibrinolytic effect have suggested that a dose of at least 1 g is required for the treatment of PPH. The TRACES pharmacokinetic model suggests that because TXA can be lost in the haemorrhaged blood, a second dose should be administered if the PPH continues or if severe coagulopathy occurs. Future pharmacodynamic analyses will focus on the appropriateness of TXA dosing regimens with regard to the intensity of fibrinolysis in catastrophic obstetric events.

Association of Pregnancy Characteristics and Maternal Mortality With Amniotic Fluid Embolism

IMPORTANCE

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is an uncommon pregnancy complication but is associated with high maternal mortality. Because of the rarity of AFE, associated risks factors and maternal outcomes have been relatively understudied.

OBJECTIVE

To examine the clinical, pregnancy, and delivery characteristics and the maternal outcomes related to AFE in a recent period in the US.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This retrospective cohort study examined hospital deliveries from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2019, from the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project's National Inpatient Sample.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

The primary outcome was clinical, pregnancy, and delivery characteristics of AFE, assessed with a multivariable binary logistic regression model. The coprimary outcome was failure to rescue, defined as maternal mortality after AFE. Associations with other severe maternal morbidity indicators and failure to rescue per clinical and pregnancy characteristics were also assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 14 684 135 deliveries were examined, with AFE diagnosed in 880 women, corresponding to an incidence rate of 6.0 per 100 000 deliveries. The cohort-level median patient age was 29 years (IQR, 25-33 years). In a multivariable analysis, (1) patient factors of older age, Asian and Black race, Western US region, pregestational hypertension, asthma, illicit substance use, and grand multiparity; (2) pregnancy factors of placental accreta spectrum (PAS), placental abruption, uterine rupture, polyhydramnios, chorioamnionitis, preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, and fetal demise; and (3) delivery factors of early gestational age, cervical ripening, cesarean delivery, operative delivery, and manual removal were associated with AFE. Among these characteristics, PAS had the largest association with AFE (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 10.01; 95% CI, 7.03-14.24). When stratified by the PAS subtypes, more severe forms of PAS had a greater association with AFE (aOR for increta and percreta, 17.35; 95% CI, 10.21-28.48; and aOR for accreta, 7.62; 95% CI, 4.83-12.01). Patients who had AFE were more likely to have coagulopathy (aOR, 24.68; 95% CI, 19.38-31.44), cardiac arrest (aOR, 24.56; 95% CI, 17.84-33.81), and adult respiratory distress syndrome (aOR, 10.72; 95% CI, 8.09-14.20). The failure-to-rescue rate after AFE was 17.0% overall. However, the failure-to-rescue rate exceeded 30% when AFE co-occurred with other severe maternal morbidity indicators: 45.8% for AFE, cardiac arrest, and coagulopathy; 43.2% for AFE, shock, and cardiac rhythm conversion; and 38.6% for AFE, cardiac arrest, coagulopathy, and shock. The failure-to-rescue rate after AFE also exceeded 30% when AFE occurred in the setting of placental pathology: 42.9% for AFE and PAS and 31.3% for AFE and placental abruption.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

This contemporaneous, national-level analysis validated previously known risk factors for AFE and confirmed the dismal outcomes of pregnancy complicated by AFE. The association between PAS and AFE, which was not previously reported, warrants further investigation.

Sudden respiratory and circulatory collapse after cesarean section: Amniotic fluid embolism or other reasons? - a case report

Background

For a healthy parturient, a cardiopulmonary collapse that suddenly occurs shortly after an uneventful caesarean section is a relatively rare event and presents a significant challenge for the anesthesia provider.

Case presentation

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is characterized by acute and rapid collapse and is well known to the obstetric team. Our patient experienced sudden cardiovascular collapse, severe respiratory difficulty and hypoxia, in the absence of other explanations for these findings at the time, and thus AFE was immediately become the focus of the consideration. However, there is no quick, standard laboratory test for AFE, therefore the diagnosis is one of exclusion based on presenting symptoms and clinical course. After given symptomatic treatment, the patient made an uneventful initial recovery in a short period and developed a rash. We recognized that the postpartum shock was associated with delayed anaphylaxis of antibiotics.

Conclusions

These observations have implications for understanding whenever administering drugs in surgery, which may affect the anesthesiologist’s judgment regarding the complications of anesthesia. Even though serious complications of common perioperative drugs may rarely occur, anesthesia providers should be aware of the consideration. Early recognition and effective treatment are more important than prompt diagnosis.

Amniotic fluid embolism rescued by venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Background

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but often catastrophic complication of pregnancy that leads to cardiopulmonary dysfunction and severe disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC). Although few case reports have reported successful use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) with AFE, concerns can be raised about the increased bleeding risks with that device.

Methods

This study included patients with AFE rescued by VA-ECMO hospitalized in two high ECMO volume centers between August 2008 and February 2021. Clinical characteristics, critical care management, in-intensive care unit (ICU) complications, and hospital outcomes were collected. ICU survivors were assessed for health-related quality of life (HRQL) in May 2021.

Results

During that 13-year study period, VA-ECMO was initiated in 54 parturient women in two high ECMO volume centers. Among that population, 10 patients with AFE [median (range) age 33 (24–40), SAPS II at 69 (56–81)] who fulfilled our diagnosis criteria were treated with VA-ECMO. Pregnancy evolved for 36 (30–41) weeks. Seven patients had a cardiac arrest before ECMO and two were cannulated under cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Pre-ECMO hemodynamic was severely impaired with an inotrope score at 370 (55–1530) μg/kg/min, a severe left ventricular ejection fraction measured at 14 (0–40)%, and lactate at 12 (2–30) mmol/L. 70% of these patients were alive at hospital discharge despite an extreme pre-ECMO severity and massive blood product transfusion. However, HRQL was lower than age-matched controls and still profoundly impaired in the role-physical, bodily pain, and general health components after a median of 44 months follow-up.

Conclusion

In this rare per-delivery complication, our results support the use of VA-ECMO despite intense DIC and ongoing bleeding. Future studies should focus on customized, patient-centered, rehabilitation programs that could lead to improved HRQL in this population.

Can cell salvage be used for resuscitation in a patient with amniotic fluid embolism and hepatic laceration? A case report

Background

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare disease that can lead to profound coagulopathy and hemorrhage, especially when combined with the laceration and bleeding of other organs. Intraoperative cell salvage (ICS) has been widely used for treating obstetric hemorrhage, but it remains unclear whether ICS can be used in the treatment of AFE.

Case presentation

We report the case of a 27-year-old woman at 39 weeks’ gestation who suddenly developed severe abdominal pain, convulsions, loss of consciousness, and decreased vital signs during labor. Despite an emergency cesarean section being performed, the parturient experienced sudden cardiac arrest. Fortunately, the heart rate spontaneously recovered after effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Further abdominal exploration revealed right hepatic laceration with active bleeding. ICS was performed and the salvaged blood was promptly transfused back to the patient. Subsequently, the patient was diagnosed with AFE based on hypotension, hypoxia, coagulopathy, and cardiac arrest. The patient was transfused with 2899 mL salvaged blood during surgery with no adverse effects. At 60- and 90-day follow-ups, no complaints of discomfort or abnormal laboratory test results were observed in the mother or the baby.

Conclusion

ICS was used to rescue patient with AFE, and ICS did not worsen the condition of patients with AFE. For pregnant women who received CPR, clinicians should explore the presence of hepatic laceration which can be fatal to patients.

[Cardiopulmonary resuscitation of pregnant patients in the rescue service]

Cardiopulmonary resuscitation of a pregnant patient is a rarity in prehospital emergency medicine and an extraordinary challenge for the emergency team. Besides modifications to emergency medical procedures due to physiological changes during pregnancy, specific reversible causes must be considered and psychosocial difficulties must be managed. This article aims to present a standard operating procedure for this special situation. In these circumstances the basics of crew resource management (CRM) are of special interest for the emergency team and are therefore mentioned in this article.

Successful ECMO-assisted open chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a postpartum patient with delayed amniotic fluid embolism

Background

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but potentially dangerous severe obstetrics complication, which is accompanied by an incidence between 1.9 and 6.1 per 100,000 births.

Case presentation

Here, we report an AFE case after cesarean delivery diagnosed on a cardiac arrest complicated by acute respiratory distress syndrome and coagulopathy. Diagnosis, risk factors and pathophysiology for AFE have been fully discussed, besides, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the early management of cardiac arrest was used, describing the indication, efficacy and successful performed of open-chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation for the patient.

Conclusion

In AFE with cute cardiovascular collapse, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support can be considered as the alternative therapies.

The rare but dangerous amniotic fluid embolish after cesarean delivery was diagnosed.

A cardiac arrest accompanied by acute respiratory distress syndrome and coagulopathy was recorded.

Diagnosis, risk factors and pathophysiology for amniotic fluid embolish in this case were detailly discussed.

Incidence, trends and risk factors for obstetric massive blood transfusion in China from 2012 to 2019: an observational study

OBJECTIVES

This study aims to use the high-quality national monitoring data from the China's National Maternal Near Miss Surveillance System (NMNMSS) to ascertain the incidence, trends and risk factors of obstetric massive blood transfusion (MBT) from 2012 to 2019 in China and determine its clinical outcomes.

SETTINGS

Observational study of hospitalised pregnancies who had given birth or ended their pregnancy among member hospitals of NMNMSS.

PARTICIPANTS

11 667 406 women were included in this study.

PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES

We screened for the incidence, trends, risk factors and main reasons for obstetric MBT, and the outcomes after obstetric MBT. MBT was defined as the transfusion of ≥5 units of red blood cells or ≥1000 mL of whole blood. The incidence of MBT was defined as the MBT cases per 10 000 pregnancies.

RESULTS

Obstetric MBT occurred in 27 626 cases, corresponding to an incidence of 23.68 per 10 000 maternities, which exhibited an increasing trend in China during 2012-2019 (14.03-29.59 per 10 000 maternities, p for trend <0.001). Obstetric MBT was mainly associated with amniotic fluid embolism, uterine atony, abnormal placenta, severe anaemia, ectopic pregnancy, abortion, caesarean section, advanced maternal age and multiparous from biological effect. While from sociological effects, uterine atony, severe anaemia and placenta previa are the top three complications which more likely to undergo obstetric MBT in the Chinese population. Overall, the secular trends of hysterectomy incidence (25.07%-9.92%) and MMR during hospitalisation (21.41‰-7.48‰) among women who underwent MBT showed decreasing trends (p for trend <0.001).

CONCLUSION

To minimise the incidence of obstetric MBT, more attention should be paid to education on the importance of the antenatal visit, evidence-based transfusion practice and females who are multiparous and have an advanced age, amniotic fluid embolism, uterine atony, severe anaemia and placenta previa.

The role of echocardiography in amniotic fluid embolism: a case series and review of the literature

PURPOSE

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, but often fatal condition characterized by sudden hemodynamic instability and coagulopathy occurring during labour or in the early postpartum period. As the mechanisms leading to shock and the cardiovascular effects of AFE are incompletely understood, the purpose of this case series is to describe how AFE presents on echocardiography and review limited reports in the literature.

CLINICAL FEATURES

We describe three cases of AFE at the Jewish General Hospital, a tertiary care centre in Montreal, Canada. All cases met the Clark diagnostic criteria, which comprise 1) sudden cardiorespiratory arrest or both hypotension and respiratory compromise, 2) disseminated intravascular coagulation, 3) clinical onset during labour or within 30 min of delivery of the placenta, and 4) absence of fever. Two patients had a cardiac arrest and the third developed significant hypotension and hypoxia. In all patients, point-of-care echocardiography at the time of shock revealed signs of right ventricular failure including a D-shaped septum, acute pulmonary hypertension, and right ventricular systolic dysfunction.

CONCLUSION

This case series and literature review of AFE emphasizes the importance of echocardiography in elucidating the etiology of maternal shock. The presence of right ventricular failure may be considered an important criterion to diagnose AFE.

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as an early treatment for amniotic fluid embolism with cardiac arrest: A case report

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare but fatal obstetric complication, characterized by sudden cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and disseminated intravascular coagulation. Maternal mortality associated with AFE is high, making early recognition and prompt treatment important. In AFE with cardiac arrest, survival following acute cardiopulmonary dysfunction is crucial. In recent years, venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) has attracted attention as an aggressive treatment for AFE with cardiac arrest. A 40-year-old woman experienced sudden cardiac arrest due to AFE during cesarean section. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation and VA-ECMO (also called percutaneous cardiopulmonary support) were initiated early. Finally, she recovered without any complications. VA-ECMO can provide temporary respiratory and hemodynamic support until cardiopulmonary function improves after a few days in intensive care. VA-ECMO should be considered as an early treatment for AFE with cardiac arrest.

Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Special Statement: Checklist for initial management of amniotic fluid embolism

Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare syndrome characterized by sudden cardiorespiratory collapse during labor or soon after delivery. Because of its rarity, many obstetrical providers have no experience in managing amniotic fluid embolism and may therefore benefit from a cognitive aid such as a checklist. We present a sample checklist for the initial management of amniotic fluid embolism based on standard management guidelines. We also suggest steps that each facility can take to implement the checklist effectively.

When does obstetric coagulopathy occur and how do I manage it?

Anticipating obstetric coagulopathy is important when obstetric anaesthetists are involved in the clinical management of women with postpartum haemorrhage. Although the incidence of coagulopathy in women with postpartum haemorrhage is low, significant hypofibrinogenaemia is associated with major haemorrhage-related morbidity and thus early identification and treatment is essential to improve outcomes. Point-of-care viscoelastic haemostatic assays, including thromboelastography and rotational thromboelastometry, provide granular information about alterations in clot formation and hypofibrinogenaemia, allow near-patient interpretation of coagulopathy, and can guide goal-directed treatment. If these assays are not available, anaesthetists should closely monitor the maternal coagulation profile with standard laboratory testing during the active phase of postpartum bleeding in order to rule coagulopathy 'in or out', decide if pro-haemostatic therapies are indicated, and assess the response to haemostatic support.

The Role of Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Case Report and Literature Review

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare and life-threatening complication related to pregnancy. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are important tools for the survival of the patient. Despite early intervention, mortality rate remains high. We present a case of a 19-year-old female who was admitted for labor induction and delivery. Her delivery course was complicated by meconium-stained amniotic fluid. The patient went into acute hypoxic respiratory failure (AHRF) and hemodynamic compromise within half an hour following delivery secondary to AFE. We hereby discuss the role of timely initiation of extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in a case of AFE which could have otherwise turned out to be fatal.

Contribution of blood detection of insulin-like growth factor binding protein-1 for the diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism: a retrospective multicentre cohort study

OBJECTIVE

To assess the contribution of maternal blood detection of IGFBP-1 for the diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism in clinical daily practice.

DESIGN

A retrospective multicentre cohort study.

SETTING

Three tertiary care obstetric units in France.

SAMPLE

Data of 86 women for whom amniotic-fluid embolism had been suspected and maternal serum detection of IGFBP-1 had been performed between 2011 and 2019 were analysed.

METHODS

The criteria defined by the United Kingdom Obstetric Surveillance System (UKOSS) were used for the retrospective diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism. The more structured definition proposed by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation (SMFM) was also used as secondary endpoint.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Agreements between biological and clinical assessments were tested. The performance of blood detection of IGFBP-1 for the diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism according to the UKOSS criteria, and to the SMFM definition, was also assessed.

RESULTS

There was only slight agreement between clinical and laboratory diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism (Cohen's Kappa coefficient: 0.04). Blood detection of IGFBP-1 had a sensitivity of 16%, a specificity of 88%, a positive and a negative likelihood ratio of 1.3 and 0.95, respectively, and a positive and a negative predictive value of 58 and 50%, respectively, for the diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism based on the UKOSS criteria. The use of the more structured SMFM definition of amniotic-fluid embolism did not substantially change the results.

CONCLUSION

These results question the usefulness of blood detection of IGFBP-1 for the early diagnosis of amniotic-fluid embolism in daily clinical practice.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

This retrospective multicentre study questions the contribution of IGFBP-1 detection for the diagnosis of AFE.

Assessment of evidence underlying guidelines by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine

BACKGROUND

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine, sometimes together with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, publishes guidelines utilizing the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system to rate the quality of evidence and assign the strength of its recommendations. The strength of recommendations is determined by the quality of evidence and 3 other strength determinants that are defined in this system.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to assess all recommendations by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system, determine the quality of evidence supporting them, evaluate the relationship between quality of evidence and strength of recommendations, and determine the extent to which the other 3 strength determinants were employed to assign recommendation strength.

STUDY DESIGN

All publications from the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine Publications and Guidelines website were reviewed, but only the ones with Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation recommendations were analyzed. These were aggregated by their rating for quality of evidence and strength. Quality and strength were first compared across all recommendations. Subsequently, they were compared with stratification by recommendation topic and type (eg, interventions, counseling, screening, and diagnosis). References supporting each recommendation were also summarized by type (eg, randomized trial, retrospective study). The quality of evidence for each recommendation was then compared with the supporting reference types. Other characteristics that may contribute to strength were also evaluated. Finally, we compared recommendations authored jointly by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists with those by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine alone.

RESULTS

The Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine published 24 documents containing 235 recommendations assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system. There were 35 (15%) recommendations supported by high-quality evidence; 34 (97%) were determined to be strong. Recommendations supported by moderate-quality (n=102) and low-quality (n=75) evidence were also rated as strong in 78% and 68% of cases, respectively. Recommendations were supported by randomized trials 8% of the time and references that summarize primary data (eg, meta-analyses, reviews, previous guidelines) 64% of the time. Recommendations with higher quality evidence ratings were more likely to be supported by references that summarize primary data (69% high-quality, 74% moderate-quality, 49% low-quality). Topics with recommendations authored jointly by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists were supported by higher quality evidence than those by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine alone (high quality, 26% vs 9%, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Recommendations by the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine assessed by the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation system were supported by high-quality evidence in 15% of cases. This suggests that well-designed, high-quality clinical trials remain a priority in obstetrics. Strong recommendations were often made on the basis of Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation strength determinants other than quality of evidence. Increased transparency of the Society for Maternal-Fetal Medicine's determination of strong recommendations based on strength determinants other than quality of the evidence may be useful to practicing clinicians.

Anesthesia for Obstetric Disasters

Over the past 30 years, maternal mortality has increased in the United States to 18 deaths per 100,000 live births. Obstetric emergencies, including hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, HELLP syndrome, and amniotic fluid embolism, and anesthesia complications, including high neuraxial blockade, local anesthetic systemic toxicity, and the difficult obstetric airway, contribute to maternal cardiac arrest and maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Expeditious intervention by the obstetric anesthesiologist is critical in these emergent scenarios, and knowledge of best practices is essential to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

Amniotic fluid embolism: A rare cause of maternal collapse-A case report

High index of suspicion of amniotic fluid embolism should be considered in any intrapartum or postpartum collapse where the obvious cause of collapse is not identified.

Anesthesia for Obstetric Disasters

Over the past 30 years, maternal mortality has increased in the United States to 18 deaths per 100,000 live births. Obstetric emergencies, including hemorrhage, hypertensive disorders in pregnancy, HELLP syndrome, and amniotic fluid embolism, and anesthesia complications, including high neuraxial blockade, local anesthetic systemic toxicity, and the difficult obstetric airway, contribute to maternal cardiac arrest and maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Expeditious intervention by the obstetric anesthesiologist is critical in these emergent scenarios, and knowledge of best practices is essential to improve maternal and fetal outcomes.

A Case Report on Managing Hemolysis, Elevated Liver Enzymes, and Low Platelets (HELLP Syndrome) During a Rapid Response Code

HELLP syndrome (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets) is a relatively rare condition that can complicate pregnancies. We present a 31-year-old gravida 5 para 0 female at 37-3/7 weeks gestation who presented with sudden onset severe epigastric pain, shortness of breath, diaphoresis, bradycardia, and elevated blood pressure. A Rapid Response Team (RRT) was called, and the patient was treated with IV magnesium in addition to blood pressure control medications. Laboratory results confirmed the diagnosis of HELLP syndrome. HELLP syndrome has the potential for major thrombotic complications and should be considered. Early consideration and evaluation of thrombotic complications amongst other common diagnoses are important for prompt treatment and optimization of maternal and fetal well-being. 

Amniotic fluid embolism and management of coagulopathy: A case report with successful outcome

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare and potentially catastrophic condition unique to pregnancy. Presentation may range from subtle clinical events to sudden and fatal maternal cardiorespiratory arrest, with a reported incidence of 2–6 in 100,000 deliveries and mortality of 15–60%. Management should include immediate high-grade resuscitation for AFE presenting as cardiac arrest, involvement of multidisciplinary team, provision of adequate ventilator and circulatory support, treatment of coagulopathy precipitated by AFE, and immediate delivery of the foetus in cases of cardiac arrest. The following case report involves a patient with suspected AFE post-induction of labour with favourable maternal and neonatal outcome in our local setting. The management of coagulopathy in AFE is further discussed, including use of massive transfusion protocols, pharmacological agents and recombinant factor VIIa.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Amniotic Fluid Embolism-Induced Cardiac Arrest in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: A Case Report

Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text.

Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare obstetric emergency that can be accompanied by profound hypoxemia, coagulopathy, hemorrhage, and cardiogenic shock. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation may provide a rescue strategy in amniotic fluid embolism with cardiopulmonary collapse. Approaches to anticoagulation must be balanced against the risk of hemorrhage with concomitant coagulopathy. Although extracorporeal membrane oxygenation has been described for cardiopulmonary collapse in the setting of amniotic fluid embolism, its initiation as a bridge to hemostasis and cardiopulmonary recovery in amniotic fluid embolism–induced hemorrhagic and cardiogenic shock remains a novel resuscitation strategy.

Amniotic fluid embolism syndrome: analysis of the Unites States International Registry

BACKGROUND

Incidence, risk factors, and perinatal morbidity and mortality rates related to amniotic fluid embolism remain a challenge to evaluate, given the presence of differing international diagnostic criteria, the lack of a gold standard diagnostic test, and a significant overlap with other causes of obstetric morbidity and mortality.

OBJECTIVE

The aims of this study were (1) to analyze the clinical features and outcomes of women using the largest United States-based contemporary international amniotic fluid embolism registry, and (2) to investigate differences in demographic and obstetric variables, clinical presentation, and outcomes between women with typical versus atypical amniotic fluid embolism, using previously published and validated criteria for the research reporting of amniotic fluid embolism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The AFE Registry is an international database established at Baylor College of Medicine (Houston, TX) in partnership with the Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation (Vista, CA) and the Perinatology Research Branch of the Division of Intramural Research of the NICHD/NIH/DHHS (Detroit, MI). Charts submitted to the registry between August 2013 and September 2017 were reviewed, and cases were categorized into typical, atypical, non-amniotic fluid embolism, and indeterminate, using the previously published and validated criteria for the research reporting of AFE. Demographic and clinical variables, as well as outcomes for patients with typical and atypical AFE, were recorded and compared. Student t tests, χ2 tests, and analysis of variance tables were used to compare the groups, as appropriate, using SAS/STAT software, version 9.4.

RESULTS

A total of 129 charts were available for review. Of these, 46% (59/129) represented typical amniotic fluid embolism and 12% (15/129) atypical amniotic fluid embolism, 21% (27/129) were non-amniotic fluid embolism cases with a clear alternative diagnosis, and 22% (28/129) had an uncertain diagnosis. Of the 27 women misclassified as an amniotic fluid embolism with an alternative diagnosis, the most common actual diagnosis was hypovolemic shock secondary to postpartum hemorrhage. Ten percent (6/59) of the women with typical amniotic fluid embolism had a pregnancy complicated by placenta previa, and 8% (5/61) had undergone in vitro fertilization to achieve pregnancy. In all, 66% (49/74) of the women with amniotic fluid embolism reported a history of atopy or latex, medication, or food allergy, compared to 34% of the obstetric population delivered at our hospital over the study period (P < .05).

CONCLUSION

Our data represent a series of women with amniotic fluid embolism whose diagnosis has been validated by detailed chart review, using recently published and validated criteria for research reporting of amniotic fluid embolism. Although no definitive risk factors were identified, a high rate of placenta previa, reported allergy, and conceptions achieved through in vitro fertilization was observed.

Extracorporeal Therapies for Amniotic Fluid Embolism

BACKGROUND

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a catastrophic disease with significant mortality. Because the cardiopulmonary dysfunction associated with AFE is self-limited, the disease could be well suited to the use of extracorporeal therapies.

CASE

A woman progressed into cardiac arrest immediately after an elective cesarean delivery. Owing to severe hypoxemia and hypotension, AFE was suspected and peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was quickly initiated. Subsequent evolution was complicated by intrabdominal bleeding, which required massive transfusion and multiple surgeries. The patient recovered well, with a healthy newborn. We have identified 19 similar cases in the literature and present their outcomes as a series.

CONCLUSION

Extracorporeal therapies can support severely ill women affected by AFE and could be considered even in the presence of disseminated intravascular coagulation and bleeding.

Amniotic fluid embolism-associated coagulopathy: a single-center observational study

INTRODUCTION

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) continues to be a rare, enigmatic condition with high maternal mortality. It is characterized by cardiovascular compromise, loss of consciousness or other neurologic symptoms, and coagulopathy. The latter is usually treated according to existing protocols for consumptive coagulopathy.

METHODS

Serial analyses of a panel of hemostaseological parameters were performed in three consecutive cases of AFE that occurred at our institution.

RESULTS

All mothers and neonates survived without major sequelae. Disproportionately low levels of fibrinogen and factor five, and exorbitantly elevated D-dimers were present in all cases, whereas markers of consumptive coagulopathy, platelets and antithrombin in particular, were only slightly reduced.

DISCUSSION

Our results support hyperfibrinolysis as contributing factor of AFE-associated coagulopathy. We, therefore, propose a treatment algorithm which includes early use of tranexamic acid and transfusion of red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma, adding fibrinogen if hemostasis is not readily achieved.

Case report of amniotic fluid embolism coagulopathy following abortion; use of viscoelastic point-of-care analysis

BACKGROUND

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, life threatening obstetric complication, often associated with severe coagulopathy. Induced abortions are extremely safe procedures however complications including AFE can occur.

CASE PRESENTATION

A 29-year-old previously healthy woman, gravida 1 para 0, presented for a scheduled second trimester induced abortion via dilation and evacuation at 22-weeks gestation. The case was complicated by a suspected AFE with associated profound coagulopathy. Viscoelastic point-of-care coagulation analysis was used to successfully and swiftly guide management of her coagulopathy.

CONCLUSION

AFE can occur in the setting of induced abortion. This case report suggests viscoelastic point-of-care coagulation analyzers may aid in the management of pregnancy-related coagulopathy by providing faster coagulation assessment than laboratory testing, and facilitating timely, targeted management of coagulopathy.

Successful treatment of amniotic fluid embolism complicated by disseminated intravascular coagulation with rivaroxaban: A case report

RATIONALE

An amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare, lethal syndrome that is commonly associated with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Anticoagulation therapy is the most important strategy to inhibit excessive activation of the coagulation cascade in patients with AFE and DIC. At present, treatment of AFE with rivaroxaban has not been reported.

PATIENT CONCERNS

We report a 37-year-old woman (gravida 2, para 1) at 39 weeks' gestation with irregular contractions of the uterus was admitted to the obstetrical department. Ten minutes after the spontaneous rupture of the membranes, the patient complained of dyspnea and dysphoria and exhibited cyanosis of her lips. The patient's blood pressure decreased and heart rate increased rapidly, and 2100 mL of unclotted blood flowed from her vagina within 1 hour. Her platelet count dropped to 21 × 10/L, and the results from routine coagulation tests, and D-dimer and fibrin degradation product tests were obviously abnormal.

DIAGNOSES

According to the current research consensus, AFE with DIC should be considered immediately when sudden cardiovascular collapse occurs around the time of labor and delivery, followed by the development of coagulopathy and hemorrhage.

INTERVENTIONS

In addition, the variety of supportive treatments, rivaroxaban was used in anticoagulant therapy.

OUTCOMES

At follow-up 30 and 60 days, there were no complaints of discomfort or abnormal laboratory assays. The patient recovered completely.

LESSONS

This case highlights that rivaroxaban, as a direct inhibitor of activated factor Xa, demonstrates a good therapeutic efficacy for treating AFE with DIC.

Amniotic fluid embolism: principles of early clinical management

Amniotic fluid embolism is an uncommon, but potentially lethal, complication of pregnancy. Because amniotic fluid embolism usually is seen with cardiac arrest, the initial immediate response should be to provide high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. We describe key features of initial treatment of patients with amniotic fluid embolism. Where available, we recommend performing transthoracic or transesophageal echocardiography as soon as possible because this is an easy and reliable method of identifying a failing right ventricle. If such failure is identified, treatment that is tailored at improving right ventricular performance should be initiated with the use of inotropic agents and pulmonary vasodilators. Blood pressure support with vasopressors is preferred over fluid infusion in the setting of severe right ventricular compromise. Amniotic fluid embolism-related coagulopathy should be managed with hemostatic resuscitation with the use of a 1:1:1 ratio of packed red cells, fresh frozen plasma, and platelets (with cryoprecipitate as needed to maintain a serum fibrinogen of >150-200 mg/dL). In cases that require prolonged cardiopulmonary resuscitation or, after arrest, severe ventricular dysfunction refractory to medical management, consideration for venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation should be given.

Amniotic Fluid Embolism Treated with Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is an extremely rare yet fatal obstetric emergency. AFE presents as sudden cardiovascular collapse after a breach of maternal-fetal membranes and is often complicated by severe coagulopathy. We present a case where an AFE was treated with veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) to help overcome the acute cardiopulmonary insult. The use of echocardiography proved to be an invaluable tool to help guide treatment and optimal duration of ECMO in the face of severe coagulopathy.

Venoarterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation as Supportive Therapy After Cardiac Arrest After Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Case Report

Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare but dreaded complication of pregnancy, with an incidence between 2 and 7/100,000 deliveries. We report an amniotic fluid embolism after urgent cesarean delivery diagnosed on a cardiac arrest, complicated by cardiogenic shock and acute respiratory distress syndrome. This report describes the indication, efficacy, and success of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in the early management of cardiac arrest, cardiac failure driven by amniotic fluid embolism, and acute respiratory distress syndrome. The use of venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support after recovery from cardiac arrest after amniotic fluid embolism should be considered early during the management of these cases.

Postpartum collapse

Abrupt deterioration in the mother's condition may occur postpartum as a result of a broad array of conditions, many of them rare. Maternal survival depends on aggressive resuscitation, rapid precise diagnosis and the institution of disease-targeted therapy. Additionally there may be implications for any future pregnancy. A case of sudden maternal collapse postpartum is presented, the differential diagnosis is discussed, and the management plan and outcome for a subsequent pregnancy reviewed.

Pulmonary amniotic fluid embolism in a rhesus macaque (Macaca mulatta)

A pregnant female rhesus macaque died spontaneously during stage two labor. Gross and histopathologic findings included severe pulmonary edema, with low numbers of blood vessels containing pale basophilic mucinous material (Alcian Blue positive and PTAH negative), consistent with intravascular amniotic fluid-derived mucin resulting in pulmonary amniotic fluid embolism.