The role of massive transfusion protocols in obstetrics

Am J Perinatol. 2013 Jan;30(1):1-4. doi: 10.1055/s-0032-1322511. Epub 2012 Jul 26.

Abstract

Obstetric hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. New concepts involving the pathophysiology of hemorrhage have been described and include early activation of both the protein C and fibrinolytic pathways. New tendencies in hemorrhage treatment include the use of hemostatic resuscitation. Massive transfusion protocols involve the early utilization of blood products and limit the traditional approach of early massive crystalloid based resuscitation. The evidence behind hemostatic resuscitation is still limited.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Blood Platelets
  • Blood Transfusion / methods*
  • Erythrocytes
  • Factor VIII / therapeutic use
  • Female
  • Fibrinogen / therapeutic use
  • Hemorrhage / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Obstetric Labor Complications / therapy*
  • Plasma
  • Pregnancy
  • Transfusion Reaction

Substances

  • cryoprecipitate coagulum
  • Factor VIII
  • Fibrinogen