Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Non-obstetric Hemorrhage: A Critical Diagnostic Tool

Postpartum hemorrhage remains a significant contributor to maternal mortality worldwide. While obstetric causes are more common, non-obstetric intra-abdominal hemorrhage is a rare yet potentially life-threatening condition. We present a clinical case of a 35-year-old pregnant woman who underwent an elective cesarean section that subsequently developed hypovolemic shock at the post-anesthetic care unit, due to non-obstetric intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Point-of-care ultrasound proved to be an essential diagnostic tool for identifying free intra-abdominal fluid, emphasizing its importance in early hemorrhage recognition. A multidisciplinary approach involving anesthesiology, obstetrics, and surgery was crucial in resuscitating and stabilizing the patient. Early recognition and intervention are essential in managing non-obstetric postpartum hemorrhage and minimizing associated morbidity and mortality.

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Publication Details

Journal
Cureus
Published
2025-10-18
DOI
https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.94860
Primary Topic
Maternal and fetal healthcare
Type
article
Field-Weighted Citation Impact
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article

Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Non-obstetric Hemorrhage: A Critical Diagnostic Tool

Joana Brandão, Elena Segura‐Grau, C. Batista, Rúben Calaia
Cureus
Maternal and fetal healthcare
article

Point-of-Care Ultrasound in Non-obstetric Hemorrhage: A Critical Diagnostic Tool

Joana Brandão, Elena Segura‐Grau, C. Batista, Rúben Calaia
article en

Abstract

Postpartum hemorrhage remains a significant contributor to maternal mortality worldwide. While obstetric causes are more common, non-obstetric intra-abdominal hemorrhage is a rare yet potentially life-threatening condition. We present a clinical case of a 35-year-old pregnant woman who underwent an elective cesarean section that subsequently developed hypovolemic shock at the post-anesthetic care unit, due to non-obstetric intra-abdominal hemorrhage. Point-of-care ultrasound proved to be an essential diagnostic tool for identifying free intra-abdominal fluid, emphasizing its importance in early hemorrhage recognition. A multidisciplinary approach involving anesthesiology, obstetrics, and surgery was crucial in resuscitating and stabilizing the patient. Early recognition and intervention are essential in managing non-obstetric postpartum hemorrhage and minimizing associated morbidity and mortality.

CureusVol. 17(10)
Administração Regional de Saúde de Lisboa e Vale do Tejo (PT)
Openalex Percentile: Top 58%
Maternal and fetal healthcare
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