Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 8 , Pages 213-216, August 2008

Amniotic fluid embolism

Derek J Tuffnell FRCOG is Consultant and Head of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Bradford Royal Infirmary, Duckworth Lane, Bradford BD9 6RJ, UK

Sarah Hamilton MBChB is Dr at St Mary's Hospital, Hathersage Road, Manchester, UK

Abstract 

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE), although rare, is a serious cause of maternal morbidity and mortality. In the most recent confidential enquiry into maternal deaths in the UK, it was the second leading cause of maternal death. It is important to assess cases of AFE to identify ways of diagnosing and managing this condition to improve the outcome for these women. It has recently been shown that medical induction seems to increase the risk of AFE. It is therefore important for obstetricians to be aware of this risk when making decisions about elective labour induction.

Keywords: amniotic fluid embolism, induction of labour, maternal mortality

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PII: S1751-7214(08)00114-0

doi:10.1016/j.ogrm.2008.06.002

Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Reproductive Medicine
Volume 18, Issue 8 , Pages 213-216, August 2008

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