[Surgical treatment of severe postpartum haemorrhage with uterine compression sutures as described by Pereira].

BACKGROUND

Postpartum haemorrhage is an important cause of maternal mortality. After failure of medical treatment, the application of uterine compressive sutures as described by Pereira to treat postpartum bleeding is an alternative to hysterectomy.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The uterus is compressed by multiple, superficially inserted sutures which are applied transversally and longitudinally around the uterus. Additionally the vascular flow is reduced.

RESULTS

Five women underwent a Caesarean section and, in spite of treatment with oxytocin and sulprostone developed severe postpartum haemorrhage. Compression sutures of the uterus as described by Pereira were successful in all cases. The follow-up was uneventful in all cases.

CONCLUSION

Compressive sutures of the uterus as described by Pereira are easy and quick to perform for treating uterine atony with postpartum bleeding.