OBSTETRIC EMERGENCIES

This chapter reviews the situations where obstetric emergencies have led to maternal mortality or morbidity. Failed intubation, aspiration of stomach contents, regional anaesthesia and analgesia mortality are reviewed and an appropriate course of action when confronted with these situations outlined. In addition, situations where anaesthesia or analgesia may be difficult are reviewed. Massive haemorrhage, hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, cardiac disease in pregnancy, amniotic fluid embolism, cardiopulmonary resuscitation and postoperative care of the obstetric patient are outlined and problems in their management highlighted. © 1993 Baillière Tindall.