Utilization of intravenous nitroglycerin for obstetrical emergencies.

OBJECTIVE

The authors investigated, by reviewing publications and their personal experience, opportunities for the use of nitroglycerin to manage several obstetric emergencies.

METHODS

A retrospective study of 10 observations of internal podalic versions of the second non-vertex twin, with administration of intravenous nitroglycerine, performed between August 1994 and March 1996, was undertaken. The authors compared their results with those reported elsewhere. The indications of nitroglycerin have been extended to intrapartum external version of the second twin, retained placenta, and uterine inversion.

RESULTS

Only one failure of internal podalic version due to failure of uterine relaxation was observed.

CONCLUSION

From both experience and published reports it was confirmed that intravenous nitroglycerin (NTG) injection induces a transient and prompt uterine relaxation without affecting maternal and fetal prognosis.