Objective: To determine risk factors, fetal and maternal outcomes in women diagnosed with placental abruption over a duration of one year.
Methods: A retrospective study carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Lady Goschen Hospital, Mangalore, from August 2014 to July 2015. All pregnant women with the diagnosis of placental abruption were included in the study. Patient records were reviewed and analyzed regarding the maternal risk factors, fetal outcome and maternal outcome.
Results: 58 cases were diagnosed with abruption in the given time period of which 33 were referred cases. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were found to be most frequently associated with abruption (n=29) followed by anemia (n=11). Most women (n=49) required transfusion of blood and blood products. Pregnancy was more commonly terminated by caesarean section (n=37). The fetal prognosis was characterized by high perinatal mortality rate (63.79%), hypoxia and prematurity being the important causes. There were no maternal deaths; however, 3 patients required ICU care in view of sepsis and DIC.
Conclusion: Hypertensive disorders, pre-existing anemia are the most common associated risk factors for placental abruption. Early detection, correct diagnosis and timely intervention are components essential for good maternal and fetal outcome.
