Motor vehicle accidents during pregnancy: a population-based study

Outcomes of severely injured pregnant trauma patients: a multicenter analysis

Nearly 10% of pregnant women suffer traumatic injury. Clinical outcomes for pregnant trauma patients (PTPs) with severe injuries have not been well studied. We sought to describe outcomes for PTPs presenting with severe injuries, hypothesizing that PTPs with severe injuries will have higher rates of complications and mortality compared to less injured PTPs. A post-hoc analysis of a multi-institutional retrospective study at 12 Level-I/II trauma centers was performed. Patients were stratified into severely injured (injury severity score [ISS] > 15) and not severely injured (ISS < 15) and compared with bivariate analyses. From 950 patients, 32 (3.4%) had severe injuries. Compared to non-severely injured PTPs, severely injured PTPs were of similar maternal age but had younger gestational age (21 vs 26 weeks, p = 0.009). Penetrating trauma was more common in the severely injured cohort (15.6% vs 1.4%, p < 0.001). The severely injured cohort more often underwent an operation (68.8% vs 3.8%, p < 0.001), including a hysterectomy (6.3% vs 0.3%, p < 0.001). The severely injured group had higher rates of complications (34.4% vs 0.9%, p < 0.001), mortality (15.6% vs 0.1%, p < 0.001), a higher rate of fetal delivery (37.5% vs. 6.0%, p < 0.001) and resuscitative hysterotomy (9.4% vs. 0%, p < 0.001). Only approximately 3% of PTPs were severely injured. However, severely injured PTPs had a nearly 40% rate of fetal delivery as well as increased complications and mortality. This included a resuscitative hysterotomy rate of nearly 10%. Significant vigilance must remain when caring for this population.

Neurodevelopmental disorders in children born to mothers involved in maternal motor vehicle crashes

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the association between maternal MVCs during pregnancy and neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs, including intellectual disability, ADHD, ASD, and infantile cerebral palsy) in children.

METHODS

This population-based cohort of live births in Taiwan was analyzed, comparing children born to mothers involved in MVCs during pregnancy with those without such exposure. Children were linked to the insurance database to identify the possible diagnosis of NDDs. The Cox proportional hazards regression model was used to estimate the relative hazards.

RESULTS

A total of 19,277 children with maternal MVCs and 76,015 children without exposure were included. Children exposed to maternal MVCs during the first two trimesters or whose mothers sustained mild to severe injuries showed a higher risk of intellectual disability. Severe maternal injuries also increased the risk of infantile cerebral palsy (aHR = 3.86; 1.27-11.78). MVCs in the third trimester, or mild maternal injuries, were associated with a higher risk of ASD (third trimester: aHR = 1.40; 1.04-1.87; mild injuries: aHR = 1.38; 1.09-1.74).

CONCLUSION

Children exposed to maternal MVCs with severe injuries had a higher risk of intellectual disability and cerebral palsy. Third-trimester exposure may increase the risk of ASD. However, these findings should be interpreted cautiously as genetic factors may contribute to the observed association.

IMPACT

There is some evidence linking maternal MVCs during pregnancy to the development of neurodevelopmental disorders in children. Children of mothers with severely injured were more likely to suffer from infantile cerebral palsy and intellectual disability. The risk of autism spectrum disorder is higher in children whose mothers are involved in MVCs during the late stage of pregnancy, and there is also an increased risk of intellectual disability during the first two trimesters.

Prediction of Placental Abruption of Pregnant Women Drivers with Various Collision Velocities, Seatbelt Positions and Placental Positions-Analysis with Novel Pregnant Occupant Model

The aims of this study were as follows: the (a) creation of a pregnant occupant finite element model based on pregnant uterine data from sonography, (b) development of the evaluation method for placental abruption using this model and (c) analysis of the effects of three factors (collision speed, seatbelt position and placental position) on the severity of placental abruption in simulations of vehicle collisions. The 30-week pregnant occupant model was developed with the uterine model including the placenta, uterine-placental interface, fetus, amniotic fluid and surrounding ligaments. A method for evaluating the severity of placental abruption on this pregnant model was established, and the effects of these factors on the severity of the injury were analyzed. As a result, a higher risk of placental abruption was observed in high collision speeds, seatbelt position over the abdomen and anterior-fundal placenta. Lower collision speeds and seatbelt position on the iliac wings prevented severe placental abruption regardless of placental positions. These results suggested that safe driving and keeping seatbelt position on the iliac wings were essential to decrease the severity of this injury. From the analysis of the mechanism for placental abruption, the following hypothesis was proposed: a shear at adhesive sites between the uterus and placenta due to direct seatbelt loading to the uterus.

Seat belt use among pregnant women in the United Arab Emirates: the Mutaba'ah Study

INTRODUCTION

Motor vehicle collisions are a major cause of death and injury among pregnant women and their fetuses. Seat belt use compliance during pregnancy varies in different populations. We aimed to study seat belt use among pregnant women and factors affecting seat belt use during pregnancy in Al Ain City, the United Arab Emirates.

METHODS

This cross-sectional analysis used the baseline data collected from pregnant women participating in the Mutaba'ah Study from May 2017 to November 2022. Data were collected using self-administered questionnaires. Variables included sociodemographic, gestation periods and seat belt-related information. All pregnant women who responded to the questions related to seat belt use were included (N=2354).

RESULTS

Seat belt use before and during pregnancy was estimated at 69.7% (95% CI 67.9% to 71.6%) and 65.5% (95% CI 63.6% to 67.4%), respectively. The reasons for not using seat belts during pregnancy included being uncomfortable to wear, habitual non-use and considering them unsafe for pregnancy. Age, higher levels of education of the pregnant woman or her spouse, being employed, having a sufficient household income, lower gestational age, and using a seat belt before pregnancy were positively associated with using a seat belt during pregnancy in the bivariate analyses. Pregnant women in their third trimester had independently significant lower odds of using a seat belt compared with those in the first trimester (OR 0.42, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.76).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings indicate decreased compliance with seat belt use during pregnancy and as gestation progressed. The decrease was related to several reasons, including feeling uncomfortable wearing seat belts, habitual non-use and unsafe for pregnancy, necessitating appropriate measures to increase awareness. Raising public awareness about the advantages of wearing seat belts during pregnancy and the involvement of healthcare professionals in educating pregnant women are warranted.

Maternal outcomes in association with motor vehicle crashes during pregnancy: a nationwide population-based retrospective study

BACKGROUND

Limited studies have assessed the association of motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) during pregnancy with adverse maternal outcomes using a population-based nationwide dataset that covers all MVCs.

METHODS

A total of 20 844 births from women who had been involved in MVCs during pregnancy were obtained from the National Birth Notification (BN) Database in Taiwan. We randomly selected 83 274 control births from women in the BN matched on age, gestational age and crash date. All study subjects were linked to medical claims and the Death Registry to identify the maternal outcomes after crashes. Conditional logistic regression models were used to estimate the adjusted odds ratio (aOR) and 95% CI of adverse outcomes associated with MVCs during pregnancy.

RESULTS

Pregnant women involved in MVCs had significantly higher risks of placental abruption (aOR=1.51, 95% CI 1.30 to 1.74), prolonged uterine contractions (aOR=1.31, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.53), antepartum haemorrhage (aOR=1.19, 95% CI 1.12 to 1.26) and caesarean delivery (aOR=1.05, 95% CI 1.02 to 1.09) than the controls. Such elevated risks tended to be higher in the MVCs with greater severity. Scooter riders had higher ORs of various adverse maternal outcomes than car drivers.

CONCLUSIONS

Women involved in MVCs during pregnancy were at increased risk of various adverse maternal outcomes, especially in those with severe MVCs and riding scooters at MVCs. These findings suggest that clinicians should be aware of these effects, and educational materials that include the above information should be provided as part of prenatal care.

A multidisciplinary approach to rescue a full-term pregnant and her fetus after blunt abdominal trauma: A case report and literature review

Blunt abdominal trauma due to motor vehicle crash is one of the leading causes of mortality during pregnancy. Though the trauma team plays a critical role in the initial management, a multidisciplinary contribution is essential to ensure the safety of the mother and her fetus. This case report followed the multidisciplinary approach for the management of a 32-year-old female during the last week of pregnancy. She sustained blunt trauma causing maternal and fetal distress due to abruption of the placenta with a large intrauterine and retroplacental hemorrhage, retro-hepatic and retroperitoneal hemorrhage, pseudoaneurysm of uterine arteries leading to postpartum hemorrhage. Immediate intervention and management at a Level 1 trauma center led to survival of both the mother and infant.

Fetal deaths and maternal injury in motor-vehicle crashes using NASS-CDS and CISS field data

OBJECTIVE

This study determined the risk for fetal death and maternal injury in the same sample of motor-vehicle crashes. The frequency and risk of serious injury (MAIS 3 + F) were also assessed by sex, pregnancy, seating position and crash type.

METHOD

The 2008-2015 NASS-CDS and 2017-2020 CISS are representative samples that were analyzed for the risk of fetal death and the risk of maternal injury grouped by MAIS 0-2, MAIS 3 + F and death (F) in 2000+ model year (MY) light vehicles. All electronic cases involving fetal mortality were reviewed for mechanism of injury. Separately, the 2000-2015 NASS-CDS and 2017-2020 CISS data was analyzed for the risk of serious injury for male, female and pregnant female occupants by seating position and crash type in 2000+ MY light vehicles. All calculations are made with weighted data. The significance of differences in risk was determined by the Rao-Scott chi-square test in SAS and z-test for differences in proportions.

RESULTS

There were 2,467 ± 1,407 fetal deaths in light vehicle crashes from 2008-2015 and 2016-2020 with an annual occurrence of 206/yr. The risk for fetal death was 1.25% ± 0.74% of exposed pregnant females. There were 127 ± 67 deaths of pregnant females, or 11/yr in the same sample. The fatality risk was 0.065% ± 0.035%. The difference in proportions was statistically significant (z = 46.1, p < 0.0001). Fetal deaths occurred 19.4-times more often than deaths of pregnant females. In 82.9% of the crashes with a fetal death, the pregnant female was not seriously injured (MAIS 3 + F). The most common mechanism of fetal death was a minor crash, in 80.1% of the weighted cases based on review of photos of the case vehicle and observing very minor structural damage to the vehicle. The minor crash involved either yaw of the occupant compartment with side loading of the pregnant female or her displacement into the restraint system and side interior in 71.7% of the crashes. A severe crash with intrusion at the seating position of the pregnant female occurred in only 11.5% of cases. It usually caused serious injury to the pregnant female and fetal death.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetal deaths occurred 19.4-times more often than deaths of pregnant females in a 12-year sample of motor-vehicle crashes. The most common mechanism was a minor crash that resulted in a fetal death without serious injury to the pregnant female and involved side or oblique loading of the pregnant female.

Epidemiology of pregnant patients with major trauma in Victoria

OBJECTIVE

Trauma is one of the most common contributors to maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality. The aim of the present study was to describe the characteristics and outcomes of major trauma in pregnant patients using a population-based registry.

METHODS

Registry-based study using data from the Victorian State Trauma Registry (VSTR), a population-based database of all hospitalised major trauma (death due to injury, Injury Severity Score [ISS] ≥12, admission to an intensive care unit [ICU] for more than 24 h and requiring mechanical ventilation for at least part of their ICU stay or urgent surgery) in Victoria, Australia, from 1 July 2007 to 30 June 2019. Pregnant patients with major trauma were identified on the VSTR. We summarised patient data using descriptive statistics.

RESULTS

Over the 12-year study period, there were 63 pregnant major trauma patients. Fifty-two (82.5%) patients sustained injuries resulting from road transport collisions. The maternal survival rate was 98.4% and the foetal survival rate was 88.9%. Thoracic injury was the most common injury (25/63), followed by abdominal injury (23/63). Eighty-six percent of the third trimester patients (19/22) were transported directly to a major trauma service with capacity for definitive care of the pregnancy.

CONCLUSION

The present study demonstrated road transport injury was the most common mechanism of injury and both maternal survival rates and foetal survival rates were high. This information is essential for trauma care system planning and public health initiatives to improve the clinical management and outcomes of pregnant women with major trauma.

Maternal trauma due to motor vehicle crashes and pregnancy outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review and quantify the effect of motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) in pregnancy on maternal and offspring outcomes.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analysis of observational data searched from inception until 1 July 2018. Searching was from June to August 2018 in Medline, Embase, Web of Science, Scopus, Latin-American and Caribbean System on Health Sciences Information, Scientific Electronic Library Online, TRANSPORT, International Road Research Documentation, European Conference of Ministers of Transportation Databases, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Cochrane Central Register.

PARTICIPANTS

Studies were selected if they focused on the effects of exposure MVC during pregnancy versus non-exposure, with follow-up to verify outcomes in various settings, including secondary care, collision and emergency, and inpatient care.

DATA SYNTHESIS

For incidence data, we calculated a pooled estimate per 1000 women. For comparison of outcomes between women involved and those not involved in MVC, we calculated ORs with 95% CIs. Where possible, we statistically pooled the data using the random-effects model. The quality of studies used in the comparative analysis was assessed with Newcastle-Ottawa Scale.

RESULTS

We included 19 studies (3 222 066 women) of which the majority was carried out in high-income countries (18/19). In population-level studies of women involved in MVC, maternal death occurred in 3.6 per 1000 (95% CI 0.25-10.42; 3 studies, 12 000 women; Tau=1.77), and fetal death or stillbirth in 6.6 per 1000 (95% CI 3.81-10.12; 8 studies, 47 992 women; I2=92.6%). Pooled incidence of complications per 1000 women involved in MVC was labour induction (276.43), preterm delivery (191.90) and caesarean section (166.65). Compared with women not involved in MVC, those involved had increased odds of placental abruption (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.27-1.63; 3 studies, 1 500 825 women) and maternal death (OR 202.27; 95% CI 110.60-369.95; 1 study, 1 094 559 women).

CONCLUSION

Pregnant women involved in MVC were at higher risk of maternal death and complications than those not involved.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42018100788.

Management of Placental Abruption Following Blunt Abdominal Trauma

Blunt abdominal trauma during pregnancy poses a significant risk to both the mother and fetus. Here, we review a case of a 21-year-old female at 17 weeks' gestation involved in a motor vehicle accident, who subsequently suffered a placental abruption and fetal demise secondary to the trauma. We present a review of traumatic placental abruptions, including epidemiology, laboratory findings, imaging, and management strategies. Because of associated maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, it is imperative that health care professionals are well versed in the diagnosis, treatment, and acute care for this rare, yet high-risk scenario.

The unborn fetus: The unrecognized victim of trauma during pregnancy

BACKGROUND

Trauma is the leading cause of non-obstetric death in pregnancy. While maternal management is defined, few studies have examined the effects on the fetus.

METHODS

Following IRB approval, all pregnant females (2010-2017) at a level-1 trauma center were retrospectively reviewed. Maternal and fetal demographics, interventions, and clinical outcomes were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 188 pregnancies in 5654 females. Maternal demographics were 26 ± 7 years old, gestational age at trauma 21 ± 12 weeks, 81% blunt mechanism, and maternal mortality 6%. Forty-one (22%) fetuses were immediately affected by the trauma including 20 (11%) born alive, 12 (7%) fetal demise, and 9 (5%) stillbirths. Of those that initially survived (n = 20), 5 (25%) expired during neonatal hospitalization. Two mothers returned immediately after trauma discharge with stillbirths for an overall infant mortality of 14% (n = 26). There were 84 patients with complete data to delivery including the 41 born at trauma and 43 born on a subsequent hospitalization. Those born at the time of trauma had significantly more delivery/neonatal complications and worse outcomes. Overall trauma burden to the fetus (preterm delivery, stillbirth, delivery/neonatal complication, or long-term disability) was 66% (56/84).

CONCLUSIONS

Trauma during pregnancy has significant immediate mortality and delayed effects on the unborn fetus. This study has uncovered a previously hidden burden and mortality of trauma during pregnancy.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level III.

Trauma in Pregnancy

Although trauma in pregnancy is rare, it is one of the most common causes of morbidity and mortality to pregnant women and fetus. Pathophysiology of trauma is generally time sensitive, and this is still true in pregnant patients, with the additional challenge of rare presentation and balancing the management of two patients concurrently. Successful resuscitation requires understanding the physiologic changes to the woman throughout the course of pregnancy. Ultimately, trauma management is best approached by prioritizing maternal resuscitation.

Neurobehavioural outcome in 6-18 year old children after trauma in pregnancy: Case-control study

BACKGROUND

Maternal trauma complicates pregnancy in approximately 7%. Long-term development of children exposed to maternal trauma is unknown.

AIM

To determine neurobehavioural outcome of children (6-18 years) born after maternal trauma in pregnancy compared to a matched control group.

STUDY DESIGN

Case-control study performed at a tertiary medical centre.

SUBJECTS

All consecutive children born after maternal hospitalization for trauma during pregnancy between 1995 and 2005. Controls were children born at the same hospital and period after an uneventful pregnancy.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Trauma type and severity (Injury Severity Score, ≥9: severe); information from medical files at admission (cases). All mothers filled out two questionnaires about the infant; 1. concerning health, motor development and educational level, 2. concerning behavioural development through the validated Dutch version of the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).

RESULTS

Questionnaires were returned by 34 cases and 28 controls. The traumas concerned mainly motor vehicle accidents and falls, and 3/34 had severe injuries. No differences in health, motor development, educational level and CBCL was found between the cases and controls, except for more hospitalization in the cases (p = 0.009).

CONCLUSION

Long-term follow-up of a limited population of children 6-18 years after exposure of mainly non-severe trauma before birth is similar to a control population except for unexplained more hospitalization in the cases.

Causas externas de mortalidade em mulheres grávidas e puérperas

Resumo Objetivo Descrever as mortes por acidentes, suicídios e homicídios entre gestantes e puérperas. Métodos Estudo retrospectivo de 169 óbitos (108 de gestantes e 61 puérperas) no estado de Pernambuco entre os anos de 2006 e 2014 com uso da fonte de dados do Sistema de Informações sobre Mortalidade (SIM). Resultados Homicídios foram o principal tipo de violência em gestantes (34,9%) e puérperas (23,1%). Os óbitos ocorreram na faixa etária de 20 a 49 anos (n = 122; 72,2%), em mulheres de raça/cor não branca (n = 141; 83,4%) e sem companheiro (n = 129; 76,3%). Conclusão A investigação dos óbitos por causas externas durante o período gravídico-puerperal fornece informações úteis para a implementação de estratégias de prevenção da violência.

Motor vehicle crashes during pregnancy and cerebral palsy during infancy: a longitudinal cohort analysis

OBJECTIVES

To assess the incidence of cerebral palsy among children born to mothers who had their pregnancy complicated by a motor vehicle crash.

DESIGN

Retrospective longitudinal cohort analysis of children born from 1 April 2002 to 31 March 2012 in Ontario, Canada.

PARTICIPANTS

Cases defined as pregnancies complicated by a motor vehicle crash and controls as remaining pregnancies with no crash.

MAIN OUTCOME

Subsequent diagnosis of cerebral palsy by age 3 years.

RESULTS

A total of 1 325 660 newborns were analysed, of whom 7933 were involved in a motor vehicle crash during pregnancy. A total of 2328 were subsequently diagnosed with cerebral palsy, equal to an absolute risk of 1.8 per 1000 newborns. For the entire cohort, motor vehicle crashes correlated with a 29% increased risk of subsequent cerebral palsy that was not statistically significant (95% CI -16 to +110, p=0.274). The increased risk was only significant for those with preterm birth who showed an 89% increased risk of subsequent cerebral palsy associated with a motor vehicle crash (95% CI +7 to +266, p=0.037). No significant increase was apparent for those with a term delivery (95% CI -62 to +79, p=0.510). A propensity score-matched analysis of preterm births (n=4384) yielded a 138% increased relative risk of cerebral palsy associated with a motor vehicle crash (95% CI +27 to +349, p=0.007), equal to an absolute increase of about 10.9 additional cases per 1000 newborns (18.2 vs 7.3, p=0.010).

CONCLUSIONS

Motor vehicle crashes during pregnancy may be associated with an increased risk of cerebral palsy among the subgroup of cases with preterm birth. The increase highlights a specific role for traffic safety advice in prenatal care.

Seatbelt use and seat preference among pregnant women in Sapporo, Japan, in 2013

AIM

This study was performed to determine the rate of pregnant occupants in motor vehicle accidents (MVA) and the frequency of seatbelt use in pregnancy in Japan.

METHODS

A questionnaire survey was conducted at seven centers located in Sapporo, targeting all 3952 women in gestational weeks 35-37 during the study period between June 2013 and January 2014. Information was collected on parity, driver's license, seatbelt use, seat preference, carrying Mother and Child Health Handbook when going out, and experience of occupant MVA during current pregnancy. Women who reported always using a seatbelt were classified as always seatbelt users (ASU).

RESULTS

A total of 2420 women who were given questionnaires provided responses (response rate, 61%). Seventy women (2.9%) reported having experienced an occupant MVA during the current pregnancy. MVA rate was significantly lower for ASU than non-ASU (2.6% [55/2097] vs 4.6% [15/323], respectively, P < 0.0001), and for ASU women preferring the rear seat than for other women (1.3% [6/451] vs 3.3% [64/1969], respectively, P = 0.0282). MVA rate tended to be lower for women preferring the rear seat than the front seat (1.7% [10/575] vs 3.3% [60/1845], respectively, P = 0.0637). The number of ASU, 94% (2286/2420) before pregnancy, decreased significantly to 87% (2097/2420) after the current pregnancy (P < 0.0001).

CONCLUSION

The careful attitude of pregnant women toward driving safety may be associated with reduced risk of MVA in pregnancy. There is a need for an intensified campaign to promote seatbelt use among pregnant women.

Guidelines for the Management of a Pregnant Trauma Patient

OBJECTIVE

Physical trauma affects 1 in 12 pregnant women and has a major impact on maternal mortality and morbidity and on pregnancy outcome. A multidisciplinary approach is warranted to optimize outcome for both the mother and her fetus. The aim of this document is to provide the obstetric care provider with an evidence-based systematic approach to the pregnant trauma patient.

OUTCOMES

Significant health and economic outcomes considered in comparing alternative practices.

EVIDENCE

Published literature was retrieved through searches of Medline, CINAHL, and The Cochrane Library from October 2007 to September 2013 using appropriate controlled vocabulary (e.g., pregnancy, Cesarean section, hypotension, domestic violence, shock) and key words (e.g., trauma, perimortem Cesarean, Kleihauer-Betke, supine hypotension, electrical shock). Results were restricted to systematic reviews, randomized control trials/controlled clinical trials, and observational studies published in English between January 1968 and September 2013. Searches were updated on a regular basis and incorporated in the guideline to February 2014. Grey (unpublished) literature was identified through searching the websites of health technology assessment and health technology-related agencies, clinical practice guideline collections, clinical trial registries, and national and international medical specialty societies.

VALUES

The quality of evidence in this document was rated using the criteria described in the Report of the Canadian Task Force on Preventive Health Care (Table 1).

BENEFITS, HARMS, AND COSTS

This guideline is expected to facilitate optimal and uniform care for pregnancies complicated by trauma. Summary Statement Specific traumatic injuries At this time, there is insufficient evidence to support the practice of disabling air bags for pregnant women. (III) Recommendations Primary survey 1. Every female of reproductive age with significant injuries should be considered pregnant until proven otherwise by a definitive pregnancy test or ultrasound scan. (III-C) 2. A nasogastric tube should be inserted in a semiconscious or unconscious injured pregnant woman to prevent aspiration of acidic gastric content. (III-C) 3. Oxygen supplementation should be given to maintain maternal oxygen saturation > 95% to ensure adequate fetal oxygenation. (II-1B) 4. If needed, a thoracostomy tube should be inserted in an injured pregnant woman 1 or 2 intercostal spaces higher than usual. (III-C) 5. Two large bore (14 to 16 gauge) intravenous lines should be placed in a seriously injured pregnant woman. (III-C) 6. Because of their adverse effect on uteroplacental perfusion, vasopressors in pregnant women should be used only for intractable hypotension that is unresponsive to fluid resuscitation. (II-3B) 7. After mid-pregnancy, the gravid uterus should be moved off the inferior vena cava to increase venous return and cardiac output in the acutely injured pregnant woman. This may be achieved by manual displacement of the uterus or left lateral tilt. Care should be taken to secure the spinal cord when using left lateral tilt. (II-1B) 8. To avoid rhesus D (Rh) alloimmunization in Rh-negative mothers, O-negative blood should be transfused when needed until cross-matched blood becomes available. (I-A) 9. The abdominal portion of military anti-shock trousers should not be inflated on a pregnant woman because this may reduce placental perfusion. (II-3B) Transfer to health care facility 10. Transfer or transport to a maternity facility (triage of a labour and delivery unit) is advocated when injuries are neither life- nor limb-threatening and the fetus is viable (≥ 23 weeks), and to the emergency room when the fetus is under 23 weeks' gestational age or considered to be non-viable. When the injury is major, the patient should be transferred or transported to the trauma unit or emergency room, regardless of gestational age. (III-B) 11. When the severity of injury is undetermined or when the gestational age is uncertain, the patient should be evaluated in the trauma unit or emergency room to rule out major injuries. (III-C) Evaluation of a pregnant trauma patient in the emergency room 12. In cases of major trauma, the assessment, stabilization, and care of the pregnant women is the first priority; then, if the fetus is viable (≥ 23 weeks), fetal heart rate auscultation and fetal monitoring can be initiated and an obstetrical consultation obtained as soon as feasible. (II-3B) 13. In pregnant women with a viable fetus (≥ 23 weeks) and suspected uterine contractions, placental abruption, or traumatic uterine rupture, urgent obstetrical consultation is recommended. (II-3B) 14. In cases of vaginal bleeding at or after 23 weeks, speculum or digital vaginal examination should be deferred until placenta previa is excluded by a prior or current ultrasound scan. (III-C) Adjunctive tests for maternal assessment 15. Radiographic studies indicated for maternal evaluation including abdominal computed tomography should not be deferred or delayed due to concerns regarding fetal exposure to radiation. (II-2B) 16. Use of gadolinium-based contrast agents can be considered when maternal benefit outweighs potential fetal risks. (III-C) 17. In addition to the routine blood tests, a pregnant trauma patient should have a coagulation panel including fibrinogen. (III-C) 18. Focused abdominal sonography for trauma should be considered for detection of intraperitoneal bleeding in pregnant trauma patients. (II-3B) 19. Abdominal computed tomography may be considered as an alternative to diagnostic peritoneal lavage or open lavage when intra-abdominal bleeding is suspected. (III-C) Fetal assessment 20. All pregnant trauma patients with a viable pregnancy (≥ 23 weeks) should undergo electronic fetal monitoring for at least 4 hours. (II-3B) 21. Pregnant trauma patients (≥ 23 weeks) with adverse factors including uterine tenderness, significant abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding, sustained contractions (> 1/10 min), rupture of the membranes, atypical or abnormal fetal heart rate pattern, high risk mechanism of injury, or serum fibrinogen < 200 mg/dL should be admitted for observation for 24 hours. (III-B) 22. Anti-D immunoglobulin should be given to all rhesus D-negative pregnant trauma patients. (III-B) 23. In Rh-negative pregnant trauma patients, quantification of maternal-fetal hemorrhage by tests such as Kleihauer-Betke should be done to determine the need for additional doses of anti-D immunoglobulin. (III-B) 24. An urgent obstetrical ultrasound scan should be undertaken when the gestational age is undetermined and need for delivery is anticipated. (III-C) 25. All pregnant trauma patients with a viable pregnancy who are admitted for fetal monitoring for greater than 4 hours should have an obstetrical ultrasound prior to discharge from hospital. (III-C) 26. Fetal well-being should be carefully documented in cases involving violence, especially for legal purposes. (III-C) Obstetrical complications of trauma 27. Management of suspected placental abruption should not be delayed pending confirmation by ultrasonography as ultrasound is not a sensitive tool for its diagnosis. (II-3D) Specific traumatic injuries 28. Tetanus vaccination is safe in pregnancy and should be given when indicated. (II-3B) 29. Every woman who sustains trauma should be questioned specifically about domestic or intimate partner violence. (II-3B) 30. During prenatal visits, the caregiver should emphasize the importance of wearing seatbelts properly at all times. (II-2B) Perimortem Caesarean section 31. A Caesarean section should be performed for viable pregnancies (≥ 23 weeks) no later than 4 minutes (when possible) following maternal cardiac arrest to aid with maternal resuscitation and fetal salvage. (III-B).

Association between unintentional injury during pregnancy and excess risk of preterm birth and its neonatal sequelae

The sequelae of preterm births may differ, depending on whether birth follows an acute event or a chronic condition. In a population-based cohort study of 2,711,645 Canadian hospital deliveries from 2003 to 2012, 3,059 women experienced unintentional injury during pregnancy. We assessed the impact of the acute event on pregnancy outcome and on neonatal complications, such as nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage, respiratory distress syndrome, intubation, and death. We adjusted for maternal age, parity, pregnancy conditions, and (for neonates) gestational age in logistic regression analyses. Injury was significantly associated with fetal mortality and early preterm delivery. For preterm infants born to injured women during the hospitalization for injury versus those born to noninjured women, the adjusted odds ratios were 2.25 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.23, 4.17) for neonatal death, 2.44 (95% CI: 1.76, 3.37) for respiratory distress, 2.20 (95% CI: 1.26, 3.84) for nontraumatic intracranial hemorrhage, and 2.17 (95% CI: 1.60, 2.96) for intubation, despite more favorable fetal growth in those born to noninjured women (adjusted birth-weight-for-gestational-age z score: 0.154 vs. 0.024, P = 0.041; small-for-gestational-age rate: 4.5% vs. 9.5%, P = 0.001). Our findings suggest that adaptation to the suboptimal intrauterine environment underlying chronic causes of preterm birth may protect preterm infants from adverse sequelae.

Uterine Rupture in Pregnancy following Fall from a Motorcycle: A Horrid Accident in Pregnancy-A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Uterine rupture is one of the most catastrophic complications during pregnancy. It is a rare complication in developed countries but a frequent cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Africa. Uterine rupture occurs in 1.6% of patients suffering blunt abdominal trauma. Here we report a unique case of complete fundal rupture of the unscarred uterus following fall from motorcycle in 39-week-pregnant mother who was managed with total abdominal hysterectomy and left salpingo-oophorectomy and survived, though fetus died before intervention. We also reviewed similar cases reported from different parts of Africa. This is a preventable complication had the woman been properly instructed on transportation safety during her antenatal care visits.

Motor vehicle collision-related accidents in pregnancy

AIM

Motor vehicle accidents (MVA) are a major contributor of worldwide morbidity and mortality; however, relatively little is known about the incidence and consequences of traffic accidents on pregnant women. Our aim is to compare rates and outcomes of motor vehicle collision-related accidents in pregnant women.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a population-based retrospective cohort study using the Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project Nationwide Inpatient Sample database from 2003 to 2011. The risk of different MVA and injuries were compared among pregnant and non-pregnant subjects using conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

We identified 5936 cases of collision-related MVA in pregnancy and age-matched them at a 1:10 ratio to 59,360 non-pregnant women with collision-related MVA. As compared to non-pregnant women, pregnant women who were admitted after an MVA suffered less severe injuries and consequently required fewer therapeutic interventions and a shorter hospital stay. Pregnant women who had a collision-related MVA were, however, at increased risk of requiring genitourinary surgery (odds ratio [OR], 1.45; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.24-1.69). When restricted to women with a fracture, pregnant women were even more likely to require genitourinary surgery (OR, 2.93; 95%CI, 2.32-3.71) as well as require a blood transfusion (OR, 1.21; 95%CI, 1.01-1.44).

CONCLUSION

Pregnant women admitted to hospital after a collision-related MVA tend to sustain less severe injuries compared to non-pregnant women. However, the influence of admissions for fetal monitoring, rather than maternal injury, could not be determined from our dataset. Pregnant women who experienced a collision-related MVA also required less surgical intervention, with the exception of genitourinary surgery, which may be indicative of more cesarean deliveries.

Blunt abdominal trauma to a pregnant woman resulting in a child with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy and permanent eye damage

Background

In today's life trauma is a common and important complication of pregnancy and remains one of the major contributors to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality.

Case presentation

The authors reported a case of 4 years old child with hemiplegic spastic cerebral palsy and permanent left eye damage due to antenatal trauma. He was an off spring to a 33 years old woman gravida 6 para 5 from western Sudan, who sustained a domestic blunt abdominal trauma during her routine daily activities. The abdominal trauma occurred during the third trimester at 36^th week gestation of the pregnancy when the mother hit herself by the woody part of an axe non intentionally.

Conclusions

The findings from this case conclude that relatively minor trauma can have significant adverse effects on the fetus and can be devastating.

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.

Management and outcomes of trauma during pregnancy

Approximately 1% to 4% of pregnant women are evaluated in emergency/delivery room because of traumatic injury, yet there are few educational strategies targeted toward prevention/management of maternal trauma. Use of illicit drugs and alcohol, domestic abuse, and depression contribute to maternal trauma; thus a high index of suspicion should be maintained when treating injured young women. Treating the mother appropriately is beneficial for both the mother and the fetus. Fetal viability should be assessed after maternal stabilization. Pregnancy-related morbidity occurs in approximately 25% of cases and may include placental abruption, uterine rupture, preterm delivery, and the need for cesarean delivery.