Electrical impedance tomography may optimize ventilation in a postpartum woman with respiratory failure

Int J Obstet Anesth. 2013 Jan;22(1):67-71. doi: 10.1016/j.ijoa.2012.09.002. Epub 2012 Oct 31.

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare peripartum complication with the sudden onset of haemodynamic instability, respiratory failure and coagulopathy during labour or soon after delivery. A 31-year-old woman with amniotic fluid embolism was treated with vasopressors, inotropes, intravenous fluid, tranexamic acid and ventilatory support. Assessment of respiratory impairment was made using conventional chest X-ray, computed tomography and electrical impedance tomography. The potential for electrical impedance tomography to improve monitoring and guide respiratory therapy is explored.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Electric Impedance
  • Embolism, Amniotic Fluid / physiopathology*
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Humans
  • Positive-Pressure Respiration / methods*
  • Postpartum Period*
  • Pregnancy
  • Radiography, Thoracic / methods
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / complications
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / physiopathology*
  • Respiratory Insufficiency / therapy*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods*