Haemostatic Support in Postpartum Haemorrhage: A Review of the Literature and Expert Opinion
Stefan Hofer, J Bláha, Peter W. Collins, A.‐S. Ducloy‐Bouthors, E. Guasch, F. Labate, Filipa Lança, Lill Trine Nyfløt, Kostja Steiner, Marc Van de Velde
Abstract
( Eur J Anaesthesiol . 2023;40:29–38) Postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) remains a significant issue for maternal health in both low- and high-income countries, with 25% of maternal deaths worldwide attributed to PPH as the leading cause of death related to pregnancy. Beyond maternal mortality, serious morbidity related to PPH can include coagulopathy, anemia, need for blood transfusion, Sheehan’s syndrome, psychological trauma, and renal impairment. Current management strategies are effective in preventing PPH and maternal death, but there is a lack of consensus on the definition of PPH and the most favorable treatment pathway for achieving hemostasis. Herein a clinically relevant definition of PPH is proposed along with practical guidance to increase the likelihood of positive outcomes through efficient and goal-directed therapy.