Cesarean delivery in the interventional radiology suite: a novel approach to obstetric hemostasis.

Abstract

The adjunctive use of interventional radiology procedures to minimize and control bleeding at the time of cesarean delivery has become increasingly common. These procedures require modern imaging equipment and supplies not available in traditional operating rooms. We describe three women who strongly desired continued reproductive function in clinical circumstances where postpartum hemorrhage and hysterectomy were likely. Cesarean delivery was performed in the interventional radiology suite after selective uterine artery balloon placement and/or embolotherapy, which successfully minimized blood loss during delivery. We propose that this novel surgical location is feasible, and may offer advantages in select patients.