I Guideline Information
Guidelines programme of the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG
Information on the guidelines programme is available at the end of the guideline.
Citation format
Peripartum haemorrhage, diagnosis and therapy. Guideline of the DGGG, OEGGG and SGGG
(S2k Level, AWMF Registry No. 015/063, March 2016). Geburtsh Frauenheilk 2018; 78:
382–399
Guideline documents
The complete long version (in German), a PDF slideshow for PowerPoint presentations
and a summary of the conflicts of interest of all the authors is available on the
AWMF homepage under: http://www.awmf.org/leitlinien/detail/ll/015-063.html
Guideline authors
The following professional and scientific societies/working groups/organisations/associations
have stated their interest in contributing to the compilation of the guideline text
and participating in the consensus conference and nominated representatives to attend
the consensus conference ([Table 1]).
Table 1 Authors and representativity of the guideline group: participation of the target
user group.
|
Author
Mandate holder
|
DGGG working group/AWMF/non-AWMF professional societies/organisations/associations
|
|
Lead author and/or coordinating author:
|
|
PD Dr. med. Dietmar Schlembach
|
German Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie
und Geburtshilfe e. V. [DGGG])
|
|
Other lead authors:
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Hanns Helmer
|
Austrian Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Österreichische Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie
und Geburtshilfe [OEGGG])
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Wolfgang Henrich
|
German Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Christian von Heymann
|
German Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Medicine (Deutsche Gesellschaft für
Anästhesiologie und Intensivmedizin e. V. [DGAI])
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Franz Kainer
|
German Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Wolfgang Korte
|
Society of Thrombosis and Haemostasis Research (Gesellschaft für Thrombose- und Hämostaseforschung
e. V. [GTH])
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Maritta Kühnert
|
German Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
|
Dr. med. Heiko Lier
|
German Society of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Medicine (DGAI)
|
|
PD Dr. med. Holger Maul
|
Deutsche Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Werner Rath
|
German Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
|
Susanne Steppat
|
German Society of Midwives (Deutscher Hebammenverband e. V.)
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Daniel Surbek
|
Swiss Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (Schweizerische Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie
und Geburtshilfe e. V.[SGGG])
|
|
Prof. Dr. med. Jürgen Wacker
|
Germany Society of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (DGGG)
|
Abbreviations
AAGBI:
Association of Anaesthetists of Great Britain and Ireland
AFE:
amniotic fluid embolism
AMSTL:
active management of third stage of labour
aPTT:
activated partial thromboplastin time
AT/AT III:
antithrombin/antithrombin III
BGA:
blood gas analysis
BMI:
body mass index
BL:
blood loss
BW:
body weight
CMACE:
Centre for Maternal and Child Enquiries
DDAVP:
desmopressin
DIC:
disseminated intravascular coagulation
ESA:
European Society of Anaesthesiology
FFP:
fresh frozen plasma
Hb:
haemoglobin
HR:
heart rate
Hct:
haematocrit
IM:
intramuscular
INR:
international normalized ratio
IU:
international unit
IUFD:
intrauterine fetal death
IV:
intravenous
MAP:
mean arterial pressure
MRI:
magnetic resonance imaging
NICE:
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence
OAA:
Obstetric Anaesthetists Association
OR:
odds ratio
PCC:
prothrombin complex concentrate
POC:
point of care
PPH:
postpartum haemorrhage
rFVIIa:
recombinant factor VII a
RBC:
red blood cell concentrate
ROTEM:
rotational thromboelastometry
RRsys/RRdia
:
RR systolic/RR diastolic
s/p:
status post
TEG:
thromboelastography
US:
ultrasound
VET:
viscoelastic test
WHO:
World Health Organisation
II Guideline Application
Purpose and objectives
This aim of this guideline is to create an interdisciplinary (including anaesthesiologists
and intensive care physicians, obstetricians, midwives, puerperal care nursing staff)
management and treatment algorithm for the management of peripartum haemorrhage (diagnosis,
risk selection, therapy).
The guideline was compiled to improve the knowledge of all persons involved in the
care of pregnant women and women in childbed who experience or have an increased risk
of haemorrhage.
The aim was to improve the care of affected patients and reduce problems in the management
of PPH.
Targeted areas of patient care
-
Outpatient care
-
Primary/specialised care
-
Inpatient care
Target user groups/target audience
This guideline is aimed at the following groups of people:
-
gynaecologists/obstetricians in private practice (non-hospital based)
-
hospital-based gynaecologists/obstetricians
-
anaesthesiologists and intensive care physicians
-
haemostasis specialists and lab clinicians
-
interventional radiologists
-
midwives
-
nursing staff (surgery, anaesthesiology, intensive care unit, obstetrics/postpartum
care)
Adoption of the guideline and period of validity
The validity of this guideline was confirmed in September 2015 by the respective boards/representatives
of the participating professional societies/working groups/organisations/associations,
by the board of the DGGG and the DGGG Guideline Commission and by the SGGG and the
OEGGG, which constitutes approval of the entire contents of the guideline. This guideline
is valid from May 1, 2016 through to March 31, 2019. Because of the contents of this
guideline, the above-mentioned period of validity is only an estimate. The guideline
can be updated earlier if urgently required. Should the guideline continue to reflect
the current level of scientific knowledge, then the guidelineʼs period of validity
can be extended.
III Methodology
Basic principles
The methodology used to compile this guideline is determined by the class assigned
to the guideline. The AWMF Guidance Manual (version 1.0) has set out the respective
rules and requirements. Guidelines are differentiated into lowest (S1), intermediate
(S2) and highest (S3) class. The lowest class consists of a set of recommendations
for action compiled by a non-representative group of experts. In 2004 the S2 class
was divided into two subclasses: a systematic evidence-based (S2e) subclass and a
structural consensus-based subclass (S2k). The highest S3 class combines both approaches.
This guideline is classified as: S2k
Grading of recommendations
The grading of evidence and the grading of recommendations was not envisaged for S2k
class guidelines. Individual statements and recommendations are differentiated by
syntax, not by symbols ([Table 2]).
Table 2 Grading of recommendations.
|
Description of grade of recommendation
|
Syntax
|
|
Strong recommendation, highly binding
|
must/must not
|
|
Recommendation, moderately binding
|
should/should not
|
|
Open recommendation, not binding
|
may/may not
|
The above classification of recommendations reflects the evaluated evidence and the clinical relevance of the studies on which
the recommendations are based and various measures/factors which did not appear in
the grading of evidence, such as the choice of patient population, intention-to-treat
or per-protocol-outcome analyses, medical or ethical behaviour towards patients, country-specific
application, etc.
Statements
Expert statements included in this guideline which are not recommendations for action
but simple statements of fact are referred to as statements. It is not possible to provide a level of evidence for these statements.
Achieving consensus and level of consensus
During structured consensus-based decision-making (S2k/S3 level), the authorised representatives
present at the respective session vote on draft Statements and Recommendations. Discussions
during the session may lead to significant changes in the wording of Statements and
Recommendations. At the end of the session, the extent of agreement (level of consensus)
is determined based on the number of participants ([Table 3]).
Table 3 Classification of extent of agreement in consensus decision-making.
|
Symbol
|
Level of consensus
|
Extent of agreement in percent
|
|
+++
|
Strong consensus
|
> 95% of participants agree
|
|
++
|
Consensus
|
> 75 – 95% of participants agree
|
|
+
|
Majority agreement
|
> 50 – 75% of participants agree
|
|
–
|
No consensus
|
< 50% of participants agree
|
Expert consensus
As the name implies, this refers to consensus decisions taken with regard to specific
Recommendations/Statements without a previous systematic search of the literature
(S2k) or when evidence is lacking (S2e/S3). The term “Expert Consensus” (EC) used
here is synonymous with the terms “Good Clinical Practice” (GCP) and “Clinical Consensus
Point” (CCP) used in other guidelines. The level of recommendation is graded as previously
described in the Chapter Grading of recommendations but only semantically (“must”/“must
not” or “should”/“should not” or “may”/“may not”) and without using symbols.
IV Guideline
1 Introduction
The incidence of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is continually increasing [1], [2], [3], [4], [5], mostly because of the increase in uterine atony and disorders of placental implantation
and increased rates of surgical vaginal delivery and Caesarean sections and the consequent
increase in primary blood loss and, in the case of Caesarean section, the increased
PPH rates in subsequent pregnancies [2], [6], [7], [8], [9], [10], [11].
In the western world, life-threatening postpartum haemorrhage occurs in approximately
2 of 1000 births and severe maternal morbidity occurs in around 3 of 1000 births [12], [13], [14], [15], [16], [17], [18], [19], [20], [21], [22]. PPH is the cause of approximately 30% of all maternal deaths in the Third World
and 13% of maternal deaths in industrialised countries [21].
The majority of maternal deaths from PPH could be avoided; major substandard care
was present in 60 – 80% of all cases [1], [20], [21], [23], [24], [25]. What is especially alarming is that a visual estimation of blood loss during delivery
results in the extent of bleeding being underestimated by 30 – 50% [26], [27], [28], [29].
In Britain and America, the causes of PPH have been summarized as the “4 Ts”. (Combinations
of these causes are the rule.) ([Table 4]).
Table 4 The 4 Ts: causes of PPH [6], [16], [30], [31], [32].
|
Tone (uterine atony)
|
Uterine distension (multiparity, polyhydramnios, fetal macrosomia)
Tocolytics
Precipitate labour or prolonged labour
(Prolonged) oxytocin augmentation
Chorioamnionitis
Uterine fibroids
|
|
Tissue (placenta)
|
Retained placenta
Abnormally invasive placenta (morbidly adherent placenta, placenta accreta/ increta/percreta)
Placental remnants
|
|
Trauma
|
Vulvovaginal injury
Cervical tear
Episiotomy/perineal tear
Uterine rupture
Uterine inversion
|
|
Thrombin (coagulopathy)
|
Pregnancy-induced:
Thrombocytopenia (HELLP syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation [DIC]) (e.g.
in pre-eclampsia, intrauterine fetal death [IUFD], placental abruption, amniotic fluid
embolism)
Other:
von Willebrand disease, plasmatic coagulopathies, thrombopathy, coagulation factor
deficiencies (loss, consumption, dilution)
|
The main risk management problems in the management of PPH are [1], [24], [33], [34]:
-
Delayed diagnosis and/or therapy due to underestimation of the actual amount of blood
lost
-
Delayed provision of blood or coagulation products
-
Lack of or failure to follow simple instructions
-
Lack of adequate training or advanced training
-
Poor communication within the interdisciplinary team
-
Deficits in the organisational structure
-
Delay in initiating treatment standards
2 Definitions
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 2.E1
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
The following definition of PPH is proposed (for German-speaking areas):
|
3 Risk Stratification and Prevention
A complete and detailed patient history, ultrasound examination during antenatal appointments,
assessment of the patientʼs risk of bleeding, presentation to the maternity hospital,
and preparations for increased blood loss could reduce patientsʼ risk of PPH [35].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E2
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Location and structure of the placenta must be documented during ultrasound examination
in the 2nd trimester. If necessary, patients with low-lying placenta should undergo
an additional ultrasound scan to screen for vasa praevia and the findings should be
documented [36].
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E3
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
An implantation disorder should be considered in women with a high-risk history (previous
operations) or findings (placenta praevia) which indicate high risk.
|
3.1 Risk stratification and risk factors which facilitate peripartum/postpartum haemorrhage
([Table 5])
Table 5 Risk factors for PPH [16], [23], [37], [38], [39].
|
Odds ratio or range
|
|
Blood loss
|
> 500 ml
|
> 1000 ml
|
|
Sociodemographic risk factors
|
|
|
|
|
1.6
|
|
|
|
1.3 – 1.4
|
1.5
|
|
Obstetric risk factors
|
|
|
|
|
4 – 13.1
|
15.9
|
|
|
2.9 – 12.6
|
2.6
|
|
|
4.1 – 7.8
|
11.7 – 16.0
|
|
|
7.6
|
|
|
|
5.0
|
|
|
|
2.3 – 4.5
|
2.6
|
|
|
3.0 – 3.6
|
|
|
|
1.9 – 2.4
|
|
|
|
1.9
|
|
|
|
1.9
|
|
|
|
1.8
|
|
|
|
1.3 – 2
|
2.1 – 2.4
|
|
|
1.1 – 2
|
|
|
Surgical risk factors
|
|
|
|
|
3.6
|
|
|
|
2.5
|
|
|
|
1.8 – 1.9
|
|
|
|
1.7 – 2.21
|
2.07
|
|
|
1.7
|
2.5
|
|
Other risk factors
|
|
|
|
|
3.8
|
|
|
|
3.3
|
|
|
|
2.2
|
|
|
|
2
|
|
Other risk factors include precipitous birth, high maternal parity, fibroids and uterine
malformations [39].
Caution:
The majority of patients who develop PPH do not have identifiable risk factors [39].
3.2 Sonographic risk stratification (placentation disorders)
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E4
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Patients with suspected abnormally invasive placenta must present early to a suitable
maternity hospital where they must be treated by a multidisciplinary team (“by the
best team at an optimal point in time”) [20], [40].
|
The diagnostic value of MRI has not yet been convincingly demonstrated in these cases
[41], [42], but MRI examination could provide additional information when findings are ambiguous
[42], [43].
3.3 Prevention
3.3.1 Active management of third stage of labour
3.3.1.1 Active management after vaginal delivery
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E5
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
After the infant has been born and commenced breathing, oxytocin (Syntocinon® 3 – 5 IU slow IV infusion) must be administered for PPH prevention [44].
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E6
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Immediate clamping of the umbilical cord at birth and controlled cord traction have
no impact on reducing postpartum haemorrhage and should not be carried out.
|
3.3.1.2 Prevention of PPH during Caesarean section
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E7
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
PPH prophylaxis must be administered as in vaginal delivery.
|
Prophylaxis can consist of administering either oxytocin (Syntocinon® 3 – 5 IU by short infusion [or slow IV infusion]) or carbetocin (Pabal® 100 µg) by short infusion or slow IV infusion.
3.3.2 If risk factors are present
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 3.E8
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
If risk factors are present, the following measures must be taken:
-
Adequate venous access for every woman in labour, adequate intravenous access in case
of complications of bleeding
-
Uterotonics must be available (oxytocin, e.g. Syntocinon®), prostaglandins (e.g. sulprostone: Nalador®), misoprostol (Cytotec®, off-label use)
-
Check logistics:
-
Check availability of emergency laboratory tests (complete blood count, blood gas
analysis [BGA], aPTT, prothrombin time [PT] or INR, antithrombin [AT], fibrinogen,
possibly thromboelastography or thromboelastometry [ROTEM])
-
Obstetrician and anaesthesiologist must be on site, experienced obstetrician and experienced
anaesthesiologist on call
-
Check availability of blood products: cross-matching, ordering of packed red blood
cells, fresh frozen plasma and platelets
-
Check availability of haemostatic agents (tranexamic acid [Cyclokapron®], fibrinogen [Haemocomplettan®], factor XIII [Fibrogammin®], recombinant activated factor VII a [rFVIIa, NovoSeven®, off-label use]).
|
4 Management of PPH
|
Consensus-based Statement 4.S1
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Strength of consensus +++
|
|
Alongside general interventions (such as stabilising the patientʼs haemodynamic status),
causal treatment of PPH includes medical therapy and/or surgical procedures that must
be performed quickly, in a coordianted and often simultaneous manner [45], [46], [47].
|
4.1 Procedures
-
Measure blood loss! (Caution: blood loss in bandages, etc.)
-
Rapid diagnosis of the cause of bleeding (4 Tʼs):
-
Estimation of uterine tone
-
Check whether placenta is complete (ultrasound, manual or instrumental examination)
-
Exclude vulvovaginal trauma by speculum examination
-
Administer uterotonics (in case of atony) and tranexamic acid to treat critical blood
loss
-
Uterine compression
-
Call in anaesthesiologist (multidisciplinary team) at an early stage
-
Drug therapy and/or surgical procedures, depending on the cause of bleeding
-
Control vital signs, consider timely invasive monitoring
-
Initial volume substitution to maintain normovolaemia: cristalloids, in exceptional
cases (e.g. acute haemorrhage and haemodynamic instability) colloidal solutions [48]
-
Cross-matching of blood, emergency laboratory tests (incl. full blood count, coagulation)
-
Order packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma, provide blood products if required
(delivery room, operating theatre)
-
Coagulation factors, especially fibrinogen
-
Other haemostatic agents (e.g. desmopressin), factor XIII or rFVIIa if necessary
-
Intensive monitoring of patient during hospital stay, consider invasive monitoring
-
Timely surgical intervention when conservative measures fail (see below for appropriate
procedures)
Measuring blood loss
One of the cardinal problems which occur not only when defining but primarily when
diagnosing and treating PPH is that the extent of postpartum blood loss is rarely
measured and is known to be underestimated by 30 – 50% if assessment is done on a purely visual
basis
[35], [49].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 4.E9
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Collecting all blood-soaked pads, bedding, linens and significant coagulum is strongly
recommended.
|
5 General (Emergency) Measures and Diagnosis to Determine Causes of PPH
5.1 Atony
-
Diagnosis: increased fundal height; soft slack uterus; usually intermittent heavy bleeding.
-
Void the bladder!
-
Mechanical procedures: uterine massage (endogenous prostaglandin formation), bimanual
uterine compression (e.g. Hamiltonʼs manoeuvre)
-
Exclude vulvovaginal trauma (by speculum examination and abdominal US if necessary)
-
Exclude retained placenta (examine the placenta to ensure it is complete, sonography)
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 5.E10
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Therapy:
After vaginal delivery
-
uterotonics, tranexamic acid if required
-
careful curettage in the delivery room or operating theatre if retained placenta is
suspected
-
uterine tamponade if required
-
other surgical procedures
-
consider embolisation
After caesarean section
|
5.2 Implantation disorders
The management of abnormally invasive placenta depends on the time of diagnosis and
type of delivery.
Approach for antenatal diagnosis
If an advanced implantation disorder (placenta increta, percreta) is diagnosed in
the antenatal period, delivery must always be by Caesarean section.
-
Extensive findings: Caesarean section with hysterectomy; alternatively, consider expectant
management (e.g. delayed delivery of placenta)
-
Focal findings: partial resection of the uterine wall
-
If necessary carry out interventional radiology with prophylactic occlusion of the
internal iliac arteries [50], [51]
Approach for intrapartum diagnosis
-
Vaginal delivery:
-
If the placenta fails to separate and bleeding is present: carry out manual separation
of the placenta followed by curettage with intraoperative ultrasound monitoring, if
required [52]
-
If severe bleeding from the placental bed persists: carry out surgical therapy, alternatively
embolisation of the uterine arteries
-
Caesarean section:
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 5.E11
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Therapy:
After vaginal delivery
-
uterotonics, tranexamic acid if required
-
if necessary, manual separation of the placenta followed by curettage
-
if necessary, uterine tamponade as a bridging procedure
-
laparotomy and other surgical measures
-
possibly embolisation
After Caesarean section
|
5.3 Uterine inversion
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 5.E12
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Therapy:
The goal is the reposition of the uterus and treatment of the symptoms of haemorrhagic
shock. The following procedures must be carried out immediately after making the diagnosis
in the order stated below:
-
Stop administration of any uterotonic drug
-
Call in experienced obstetrician and anaesthesiologist
-
Ensure adequate intravenous access, volume substitution
-
Make no attempt to remove the placenta (higher blood loss); the placenta must, where
possible (placenta accreta), only be removed after repositioning [53], [54]
-
Attempt to reposition the fundus (Johnsonʼs manoeuvre)
-
If attempts at repositioning are unsuccessful, administer uterine relaxants (e.g.
nitroglycerin 50 µg IV, betamimetics) and repeat the attempt to reposition the uterus
with Johnsonʼs manoeuvre
-
If repositioning attempts continue to be unsuccessful → perform laparotomy and Huntingtonʼs
procedure, simultaneously with Johnsonʼs manoeuvre if necessary; if attempts are still
unsuccessful, perform the Haultain procedure
-
Administer uterotonics (e.g. oxytocin) after successful repositioning
-
Provide antibiotic protection (e.g. cephalosporin or clindamycin)
|
6 Medication and Surgical Measures to Treat PPH
6.1 Uterotonics
6.1.1 Oxytocin (Syntocinon®) IV (IM if necessary)
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 6.E13
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
A maximum of 6 IU undiluted oxytocin can be administered slowly and intravenously:
-
3 – 5 IU (1 vial) in 10 ml NaCl 0.9% as a single (slow intravenous!) bolus
-
If necessary, this can be followed by 10 – 40 IU oxytocin in 500 – 1000 ml saline
as a continuous infusion (dose depends on the clinical situation, particularly the
impact on uterine tone) [16], [55].
|
The onset of action after IV administration (half-life of 4 – 10 min) is less than
one minute or 3 – 5 minutes following intramuscular administration (maximum 10 IU).
6.1.2 Carbetocin (Pabal®)
The use of carbetocin to treat PPH is currently not yet been sufficiently investigated.
The use of carbetocin to treat PPH has been reported in individual cases.
6.1.3 Methylergometrine (Methergin®)
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 6.E14
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Given the range of serious side effects and the fact that better alternatives are
available, the utmost caution is advised when administering methylergometrine to manage
postpartum haemorrhage.
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 6.E15
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Methylergometrine should not be administered as an intravenous bolus.
|
6.1.4 Prostaglandins
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 6.E16
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
If first-line uterotonics are not effective and patients do not respond to first-line
uterotonics, prostaglandins must be administered immediately [56].
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 6.E17
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Oxytocin receptor agonists and prostaglandins must not be administered simultaneously.
|
|
Consensus-based Statement 6.S2
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Note:
Postpartum uterine atony and uterine haemorrhage are life-threatening pathologies
and an urgent indication for the administration of prostaglandin derivatives if no
other alternatives are available or oxytocin is not effective, until patients can
receive obstetric/gynaecological treatment. In this situation the side effects and
contraindications must be carefully considered (benefits and drawbacks weighed up).
Close haemodynamic monitoring is necessary when prostaglandin derivatives are administered.
|
6.1.4.1 Sulprostone (Nalador®)
Dosage:
-
1 vial = 500 µg in 500 ml solution administered via an infusion pump
-
Initial dose: 100 ml/h, up to a maximum of 500 ml/h if required
-
Maintenance dose: 100 ml/h
-
Maximum dose 1000 µg/10 hours (2 vials)
-
Maximum daily dose 1500 µg (3 vials)
6.1.4.2 Misoprostol (Cytotec®)
Dosage: 800 – 1000 µg misoprostol administered rectally or 600 µg administered orally [57] – [60].
A Cochrane meta-analysis showed that oxytocin infusion was more effective as a first-line
therapy than the administration of misoprostol and additionally had fewer side effects.
When used after prophylactic uterotonics, misoprostol and oxytocin were equally effective
[61].
|
Consensus-based Statement 6.S3
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Note:
Because of its delayed onset of action and the availability of better and approved
alternatives, misoprostol is not suitable to treat persistent PPH.
The use of misoprostol to treat moderately persistent PPH after the administration
of oxytocin may be considered (off-label use!). However, the current data is still
insufficient to make a final recommendation.
|
|
Consensus-based Statement 6.S4
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Note:
Postpartum uterine atony and uterine haemorrhage are life-threatening pathologies
and the administration of misoprostol is urgently indicated if no other alternatives
are available, until patients can receive obstetric/ gynaecological treatment. In this context the side effects and contraindications must
be carefully considered (benefits and drawbacks weighed up). Close haemodynamic monitoring
is essential when misoprostol is administered.
|
6.1.4.3 Intrauterine application of prostaglandins
|
Consensus-based Statement 6.S5
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
The intramyometrial application of sulprostone (e.g. to the uterine fundus in cases
with caesarean section) is contra-indicated [56].
|
7 Uterine Tamponade
The objective of uterine cavity tamponade is twofold: to treat PPH (i.e., to achieve
definitive haemostasis) and as a “bridging” measure (i.e., to achieve temporary haemostasis
and haemodynamic stabilisation and allow other measures [surgical or interventional
radiology] to be put in place) [62], [63], [64]. In addition to other second-line treatment strategies, uterine tamponade can significantly
reduce the rate of emergency hysterectomies [65], [66].
In addition to tamponade strips, there are a number of different balloon tamponade
systems available for uterine tamponade; their efficacy has been described in various
publications and their use has the advantage of allowing the early detection of persistent
bleeding [64], [67], [68], [69], [70], [71], [72], [73].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 7.E18
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
-
Parallel administration of uterotonics
-
Vaginal examination/ultrasound (to exclude trauma, retained placenta, clot evacuation)
-
Bladder catheter
-
Use a liquid (0.9% saline, body temperature if possible) to fill the balloon tamponade
– NOT air
-
Additional vaginal tamponade
-
Intensive monitoring, antibiotic prophylaxis
-
Can be left in utero for up to 24 hours
|
There has been a recent report on the use of a special gauze (Celox®) coated with a haemostatic agent (chitosan), originally developed for emergency treatment
and military combat medicine, to successfully manage PPH [74].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 7.E19
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Uterine tamponade – in whatever form – does not preclude other necessary therapeutic
options, such as compression sutures [64], [75]; the use of compression sutures is strongly recommended, particularly to treat atony
[75], [76], [77], [78].
|
8 Surgical Measures (Compression, Devascularisation, Hysterectomy) and Embolisation
8.1 Bridging procedures
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E20
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
In the event of the lethal triad consisting of persistent haemorrhage, haemorrhagic
shock und coagulopathy, the following three-stage approach is recommended [62]:
-
Early surgical haemostasis carried out by the attending surgical obstetrician using
a Pfannenstiel incision or median laparotomy, eventeration of the uterus with cranial
traction and uterine compression, and atraumatic clamping of the uterine arteries
to minimise perfusion. Placement of uterine compression sutures and application of
a uterine tamponade.
-
Parallel correction of hypovolaemia, temperature, disturbed acid-base balance and
coagulopathy by the anaesthesiologist; if possible, surgery should then be paused
until stabilisation.
-
Definitive (surgical) treatment of the now haemodynamically stable patient by a surgeon
with the appropriate surgical expertise. If the necessary infrastructure is available,
option to perform interventional radiological embolisation of afferent uterine arteries
[79], [80]. The benefit of this approach is that it can preserve fertility, as has been described
for large case series [81], [82], [83], [84].
|
8.2 Uterine compression sutures
The aim of these sutures is to compress the uterus, reduce the placental adhesion
area and tamponade the bleeding site. This approach is indicated for uterine bleeding
after vaginal delivery or following Caesarean section. At present it is not possible
to say anything about the optimal efficacy of specific types of sutures. All of the
employed methods had high success rates in terms of preventing hysterectomy which
would otherwise have been necessary. The choice of the appropriate suture method depends
on the indication (atony, bleeding from the placental bed, diffuse bleeding) [85].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E21
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Suitable suture materials (large needles, long suture threads) must be kept in readiness
in the operating theatre.
|
8.3 Vascular ligatures
In addition to simple ligature of the uterine artery [86] stepwise uterine devascularisation can also be used for haemostasis. The technique
consists of 5 consecutive steps to ligate the ascending and descending branches of
the uterine arteries and the ovarian arterial collaterals [87], [88].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E22
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Ligature of the internal iliac artery must only be carried out as a last resort and
only by a surgeon with extensive experience of pelvic surgery.
|
8.4 Postpartum hysterectomy
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E23
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Conservative measures to preserve the uterus are only useful if the patient is haemodynamically
stable and does not have life-threatening bleeding [89], [90]. The decision that hysterectomy is indicated must not be delayed or left too late.
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E24
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Supracervical hysterectomy is the procedure of choice for atony, as the operating
time is significantly shorter and the operation does not lead to unintended vaginal
shortening. Total hysterectomy should be considered for placental implantation disorders
of the lower uterine segment; visualisation of the ureters during this procedure is
recommended.
|
Relative contraindications for uterus-preserving measures are:
-
Extensive abnormally invasive placenta (placenta increta/percreta) where the placental
implantation bed is open, bleeding from the placental implantation bed is resistant
to treatment or the implantation bed covers large areas of the uterine wall.
-
Non-reconstructable uterine injury
-
Septic uterus
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E25
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
During the bridging time to definitive treatment, (bimanual) compression of the aorta
for up to 20 minutes may be carried out to avoid unnecessary blood loss [91], [92]. If it is clear that the haemorrhage cannot be controlled by hysterectomy or is
continuing even though hysterectomy has been carried out, the lesser pelvis and abdomen
should be packed with sufficient moistened abdominal cloths.
|
8.5 Arterial catheter embolisation
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E26
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Every obstetric department should ascertain whether arterial catheter embolisation
can be performed in their facility and the time it takes for this method to be available
and then create the organisational structure which will determine at what point the
patient should be transferred to the interventional radiology department. The precondition
for transfer is that the patient is haemodynamically stable and does not have massive
bleeding.
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E27
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
If catheter embolisation is available on site, the radiologist should be notified
early (e.g. when an attempt at haemostasis using uterine compression sutures is unsuccessful).
Because of the range of side effects, medical and surgical treatment options should
be largely exhausted. The time of transfer to the radiology department is also determined
by how important it is to preserve the uterus.
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E28
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Before the patient is transferred, intra-abdominal packing should be considered as
a bridging procedure if the patient has just undergone a hysterectomy procedure to
prevent a critical loss of blood during transportation and contain the bleeding during
the sometimes protracted intervention.
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 8.E29
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
If the intervention can be planned ahead (e.g., placenta increta/percreta), endovascular
catheters can already be placed preoperatively into the internal iliac artery on both
sides.
|
Catheter embolisation may be used as a last resort to treat persistent diffuse bleeding
in the lesser pelvis after postpartum hysterectomy [93].
9 Haemostasis and Coagulation Management – Intensive Medical Procedures
9.1 Background
Understanding and recognising the most probable pathophysiology of the bleeding is
important, as this will offer pointers for different therapeutic approaches. The problem
associated with haemostatic management is the difficulty in differentiating between
increased bleeding caused by a major injury and protracted bleeding where the composition
of blood has changed (i.e., the normal capacity of the system to compensate for smaller
injuries has been reversed; this equates to an impairment of the coagulation system
= coagulopathy). It is therefore necessary to distinguish between:
-
trauma-induced coagulopathy with shock and massive tissue trauma
-
initial “traumatic” haemorrhage caused by tissue trauma, and
-
initial coagulopathic bleeding.
Impaired coagulation (= coagulopathy) is often an early pathology of PPH which can
occur before dilutional coagulopathy occurs [39], [94].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 9.E30
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
The length of time needed to obtain diagnostic findings means that it is not possible
to await the results of diagnostic procedures which differentiate between different
coagulopathies (e.g. congenital vs. acquired) before making treatment decisions. As
a rule (if the patientʼs medical history does not indicate any congenital coagulopathy),
it should be assumed that patients with peripartum or postpartum haemorrhage have
an acquired coagulopathy, unless a surgical cause of haemorrhage can be clearly identified.
|
It is also important to take account of the fact that, because of the associated dilution
effect and the use of coagulation factors, every primary mechanical bleeding treated
with volume replacement and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) will become coagulopathic if
volume substitution and FFP administration is continued over a lengthy period [95] – [97].
|
Consensus-based Statement 9.S6
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
It is therefore essential that all hospitals with obstetric departments develop a
treatment algorithm for peri-/postpartum haemorrhage which is adapted to the specific
conditions in the respective hospital [46], [98], [99], [100], [101]. The aim must be to identify haemorrhaging patients early on and describe the appropriate
interdisciplinary surgical, interventional and haemostatic treatment to manage the
bleeding. This algorithm should define the approach for the treatment process based
on the clinical situation and take account of all available treatment options (pharmacological
therapies, interventional procedures, surgical interventions).
|
9.2 Options to treat peri-/postpartum coagulopathic haemorrhage
|
Consensus-based Statement 9.S7
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
During active bleeding, any iatrogenic aggravation of the tendency to bleed (e.g.
by administering artificial colloids for volume replacement which has a strong dilution-related
coagulopathic effect, or attempt to achieve high-normal blood pressure) should be
avoided, where possible.
|
|
Consensus-based Statement 9.S8
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
Blood component therapy is currently the standard therapy for haemostasis, either
using labile (cellular components, FFP) or stable (lyophilised factor concentrates)
blood products, and should be administered early to prevent dilutional coagulopathy
occurring in addition to the already existing loss of blood.
|
Based on the current state of knowledge, fibrinogen plays a key role. In patients with a history of peri-/postpartum haemorrhage and
patients with peripartum bleeding, plasma fibrinogen concentrations should be determined
(irrespective of treatment), as concentrations < 2 g/l could help identify those patients
at increased risk of severe PPH [39], [46].
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 9.E31
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
In any case, potentially increased fibrinolytic activity should be treated by the
administration of tranexamic acid (an antifibrinolytic) before the substitution of fibrinogen (factor concentrate or
FFP) is considered [39].
|
|
Consensus-based Statement 9.S9
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
The beneficial effects (lower loss of blood, reduced blood transfusion, increased
Hb, lower number of invasive procedures) of administering tranexamic acid to treat
PPH have since been shown in randomised, controlled studies of around 2000 patients
[102], [103], [104], [105], [106], [107], [108], [109], [110].
In 2013 the ESA issued a strong recommendation based on moderate evidence for the
administration of tranexamic acid to treat obstetric bleeding to reduce blood loss,
bleeding duration and the number of transfusions [46].
There are no reliable data on the use of DDAVP (Minirin®) in obstetrics which would permit an evidence-based recommendation [111], although there have been repeated reports of observational studies with positive
outcomes [112]. According to the ESA, DDAVP may be useful to treat platelet function disorders
resulting from acquired von Willebrand syndrome (from drugs, acidosis, hypothermia)
[46].
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 9.E32
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Although the data is controversial and prospective randomised studies are lacking,
one or two attempts at treatment with rFVIIa at a dose of 90 µg/kg BW can be undertaken
as a last resort in carefully selected cases if
-
the patient has previously received adequate and appropriate treatment with other
blood products,
-
the other methods used for haemostasis were not sufficiently effective, and
-
the patient still wants to have other children before undergoing a hysterectomy [39], [113], [114], [115], [116].
Because of the risk of thromboembolism, recombinant FVIIa (NovoSeven®) should only be given as a last resort [117]. Plasmatic factor concentrations and platelet numbers should be optimised before
rFVIIa is administered [46].
|
|
Consensus-based Statement 9.S10
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus ++
|
|
In summary, the conclusions to be drawn from the currently available data on haemostatic
management recommend
-
an escalating concept (i.e., a successive step-by-step range of treatment options)
adapted to the respective conditions in each hospital [46], [99], [100],
-
early administration of tranexamic acid, preferably immediately after making the diagnosis,
-
stabilisation of physiological preconditions for coagulation (i.e. pH, temperature,
calcium level) [46], [95],
-
if bleeding persists, viscoelastic test or conventional diagnostic tests to diagnose
the cause of bleeding,
-
if bleeding persists and substitution is required (if need be, in parallel to other
mechanical forms of treatment), early replacement of coagulation factors with factor
concentrates and/or FFP (fibrinogen should be considered if dilutional coagulopathy
is present, otherwise PCC and F XIII may be used),
-
if necessary (i.e. when other approaches are not effective), optimisation of platelet
numbers (target > 100,000/µl for patients with active bleeding requiring transfusion)
[46].
|
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 9.E33
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
After the underlying cause of bleeding has been treated, thromboprophylaxis must be
administered within 24 hours [39]. Because of the reduced antithrombin activity (absolute activity may even be less
than 0.5 kIU/l) in the majority of women with PPH, an increased risk of thromboembolism
is expected after the bleeding has stopped
[118]. After the administration of individual coagulation factor concentrates or complex
preparations (e.g. PCC), antithrombin activity can be determined on the intensive
care unit and substituted if necessary [119]. The target value is ≥ 80% or ≥ 0.8 kIU/l [119], [120], [121].
|
9.3 Anaesthesia-related aspects of managing PPH
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 9.E34
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
-
Maintain or achieve haemodynamic stability and normovolaemia: myocardiac ischaemia with reduced contractility is often present when Hb values ≤ 6 g/dl (3.726 mmol/l)
with or without haemodynamic abnormality (RRsys < 90 mmHg and/or RRdia < 50 mmHg and/or HR ≥ 115/min) [122], [123].
-
Timely call for expert assistance is recommended for uncontrolled blood loss of more than 500 ml following vaginal
delivery or more than 1000 ml following Caesarean section and is essential if blood
loss is more than 1500 ml [29], [89], [95], [124].
-
For patients receiving regional anaesthesia (spinal anaesthesia, epidural anaesthesia): if blood loss is ≥ 1500 – 2000 ml and
there are signs of persistent bleeding: secure the airway and ensure sufficient oxygen supply; if necessary, perform early intubation after consultation with the surgeon [125]. If there is a loss of protective reflexes, endotracheal intubation to secure the
airway and ensure sufficient oxygenation must take priority.
-
Place wide-diameter access points (2× ≥ 16 G) followed by arterial blood pressure measurement, if necessary
even before intubation. A wide-diameter central access (≥ 9 Fr) is recommended [125], [126], [127], [128].
-
Cell saver blood (official recommendations of CMACE, NICE, OAA/AAGBI, ESA): use of mechanical
autotransfusion in patients undergoing elective Caesarean section (e.g. in cases with
placenta increta/percreta) can reduce the administration of allogenic blood postoperatively
and the duration of hospital stay [129], [130]. In the emergency setting of PPH the following
caveats
must be taken into consideration: should only be used, after amniotic fluid removal
and delivery of the neonate.
-
Cell-saver blood does not contain clotting factors or platelets. Coagulation factors
should be substituted to prevent coagulopathy when administering high transfusion
volumes [131].
-
Cases of hypotension have been reported following the re-transfusion of cell-saver
blood with a leukocyte depletion filter [132].
-
Target values in haemodynamic therapy for “healthy” pregnant women and strong bleeding:
-
After cord clamping, hypotensive resuscitation until surgical haemostasis is achieved with restrictive fluid therapy
[133], [134].
-
“Normal recapillarisation time” or “palpable radial pulse” are the target values for
volume replacement therapy [135], [136]
-
Goal: MAP > 65 mmHg or lower [137] or RRsys ~ 90 mmHg [138].
-
Target Hb: indication for blood transfusion until surgical haemostasis: 7 g/dl (4.347 mmol/l); after surgical haemostasis and successful treatment of the underlying
pathology: 7 – 9 g/dl (4.347 – 5.589 mmol/l) [23], [134], [138]. Note: ensure sufficient additional iron supplementation on the ward postoperatively.
-
Pharmacological thromboprophylaxis within 24 hours after the pathology causing the bleeding has been treated [134].
|
Escalating regimen of haemostatic therapeutic options to treat PPH (based on recommendations
of the S3-guideline 012/019 “Polytrauma/Schwerverletztenbehandlung” [Multitrauma/Treatment
of Severely Injured Persons], DGAI recommendations on treating severe bleeding and
ESA recommendations on treating perioperative haemorrhage) [100], [136].
|
1.
|
Stabilise general conditions (prophylaxis and therapy!)
|
Core temperature ≥ 34 °C (preferably normothermia)
pH ≥ 7.2
ionised Ca++ concentration > 0.9 mmol/l (preferably normocalcaemia)
|
|
2.
|
Prevent potential (hyper-) fibrinolysis (always PRIOR to the administration of fibrinogen and/or FFP!)
|
Tranexamic acid (Cyklokapron®) initially 1 – 2 g (15 – 30 mg/kg BW), repeat as needed
|
|
3.
|
Substitution of oxygen carriers
|
RBC administration
Haemostatic target in patients with severe bleeding: Hb ~ 7 – 9 g/dl (4.3 – 5.5 mmol/l)
or Hct ~ 30%
|
|
4.
|
Substitution of clotting factors (if severe haemorrhage persists) depending on availability
in hospital
|
FFP ≥ 20 (preferably 30) ml/kg BW
or/and
fibrinogen (Haemocomplettan®) (2–)4(–8) g (30 – 60 mg/kg BW)
Target: ≥ 200 mg/dl or ≥ 2.0 g/l
|
|
Patients who require (or are anticipated to require) massive transfusion or suffer
life-threatening haemorrhagic shock may benefit from high FFP : RBC ratio of ≥1 : 2
or from combined administration of FFP and factor concentrates.
|
If required, PCC initially 1000 – 2500 IU (25 IU/kg BW)
|
|
If required, 1 – 2×FXIII (Fibrogammin® P) 1250 IU (15 – 20 IU/kg BW)
|
|
and (if thrombocytopenia is suspected) increased platelet adhesion to endothelium + release
of von Willebrand factor and FVIII from endothelium/liver sinusoids (→ agonist for
vasopressin type 2 receptor)
|
DDAVP = desmopressin (Minirin®)
0.3 µg/kg BW over a period of 30 minutes (1 vial per 10 kg BW over a period of 30 min)
|
|
5.
|
Platelet substitution for primary haemostasis
|
Platelet concentrate (target for haemorrhage requiring transfusion: 100 000/µl)
|
|
6.
|
If necessary, thrombin burst with platelet and coagulation activation (consider general
haemostatic conditions!)
|
In individual cases and when all other treatment options have been unsuccessful
rFVIIa (NovoSeven®) if required, initially 90 µg/kg BW
|
|
During ongoing bleeding
|
No antithrombin (ATIII) during haemorrhage, may be considered after administration of PCC and cessation of bleeding
No heparin during haemorrhage
|
|
CAUTION: Thrombosis prophylaxis is mandatory within 24 hours after cessation of the
pathology causing the bleeding!
|
9.4 Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM)/thromboelastography (TEG)
The mean time until the results of standard laboratory parameters are available in
the operating room is at least 45 minutes [139]. Coagulation disturbances can be detected significantly faster with the viscoelastic
test (VET) [139], [140].
Currently, two procedures are used for point-of-care (POC) diagnostics offering prompt,
bedside recognition of clotting disorders based on VET: rotational thromboelastometry
(ROTEM, Tem International GmbH, Munich, Germany) and thromboelastography (TEG, Haemonetics,
Braintree, MA, USA) [141].
At present there are no class 1 recommendations on the use of these procedures [46].
10 Transportation
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 10.E35
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
As transporting a haemodynamically instable patient is a serious risk, any transportation
of such patients as part of the management of PPH must be carefully weighed up, quite
apart from the organisational conditions at the facility caring for the patient (or
transportation should only be considered after haemodynamic stabilisation). It is
important that the facility transferring the patient and the facility accepting the
patient agree about timing and staff coverage during transportation of the patient
in the run-up to the patient transfer and record what the two facilities have agreed
upon in writing [142].
|
11 Monitoring after PPH
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 11.E36
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Following PPH, individually adapted active monitoring must be carried out for at least
24 hours.
|
12 Documentation
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 12.E37
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Every event defined as an emergency must be carefully documented. It is recommended
to use the special forms developed for the respective organisational unit for documentation.
|
13 Debriefing
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 13.E38
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Interdisciplinary team debriefing is recommended.
|
14 Training
|
Consensus-based Recommendation 14.E39
|
|
Expert consensus
|
Level of consensus +++
|
|
Simulations of haemorrhagic situations must be carried out by an interdisciplinary
team at regular intervals; studies have shown that this leads to an improvement in
the management of peri-/postpartum haemorrhage [35], [143].
|