A survey of interventional radiology for the management of obstetric haemorrhage in the United Kingdom

Abstract 

Background

Massive haemorrhage remains a leading cause of maternal death worldwide. Interventional radiology can be used to prevent or treat life-threatening haemorrhage, but evidence for its efficacy is limited to case series predominantly from large tertiary centres. The current availability of interventional radiology for management of obstetric haemorrhage in the UK is unknown.

Methods

A postal questionnaire on the use of interventional radiology was sent to the lead clinician for obstetric anaesthesia in 226 UK maternity units.

Results

The response rate was 72%; 74 respondents (46%) had considered and 51 (31%) used interventional radiology for control of obstetric haemorrhage. Its use was primarily confined to large tertiary obstetric units and limited by availability of equipment and staff.

Conclusions

Interventional radiology to assist in the management of obstetric haemorrhage is not uniformly available in the UK and experience remains limited. Access to this resource is subject to striking local variability and influenced by the size and nature of the hospital supporting the delivery unit.

Keywords: Obstetric haemorrhage, Interventional radiology, UK maternity units