Treatment of Intractable Postpartum Hemorrhage by Embolizing Artery: A Report of 6 Cases

Objective: To evaluate the clinical value of embolizing artery in the treatment of intractable postpartum hemorrhage. Methods: 6 patients of intractable postpartum hemorrhage were performed transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE). Superselective catheterization in the bilateral uterine arteries or internal iliac arteries was carried out after intubating to single-side femoral artery by Seldinger's technique. When the catheter tip was proved in right position and the pelvic blood vessels were showed by digital subtraction angiography(DSA) techniques, the arterial embolization with gelfoam particles was followed. Results :The operation of all the patients were successfully performed at one time, the operative time was short, and postpartum hemorrhage ceased immediately. These patients' uterus and their physiological function were reserved. Only one case occurred serious complications with thrombosis in her right lower extremities after TAE and was recovery soon after operation. Conclusions: The treatment of intractable postpartum hemorrhage by embolizing artery was proved to be an effective, fast, and safe method, and the uterus can be reserved.