PLACENTALABRUPTION AND FETAL DEATH FOLLOWING VEHICLE COLLISION: A CASE REPORT AND LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

AIM: We present a case of placental abruption and fetal death following a motor vehicle accident, associated with air bag activation, and a short literature review of this important issue. Case report:A27-year-old women at 32nd gestational week presented after a head-on motor vehicle collision. Patient was restrained and air-bag deployed. Upon admission patient had stable vital signs, no visible major physical injuries, but was complaining of lower abdominal and the right leg pain. Physical examination revealed ecchymosis of the lower abdomen consistent with seatbelt trauma. Initial obstetric ultrasound examination showed no fetal cardiac activity, and the retro placental hematoma was identied. The labor was induced. Massive hemorrhage occurred after delivery of the placenta. Uterus atonia could not be managed conservatively with uterotonic agents or surgically, so hysterectomy had to be performed. The patient recovered and was discharged on the night postoperative day. Pathologic examination conrmed placental abruption. CONCLUSION:In conclusion all pregnant women who had a vehicle accident should be sent to the medical center with the possibility to take care of both trauma patients - the pregnant woman and fetus. Utmost attention should be paused to such patients as even the slightest trauma can have grave consequences on both the mother and fetus.