Types of Placental Abruption

Question 1

Concealed

Answer 1

Description: Blood is within uterine cavity. placenta more likely to be completely detached
Complications: DIC, uterine tetany, fetal hypoxia, fetal death, sheehan syndrome (postpartum hypopituitarism)

Question 2

External

Answer 2

Description: blood drains through cervix. placenta is partially detached
Minimal complications

Question 3

What are the 4 signs of placental separation?

Answer 3

1. gush of blood
2. lengthening of the cord
3. globular and firm shape of the uterus
4. uterus rises up to the anterior abdominal wall

mass with shaggy appearance around the placenta

Question 4

What is the treatment for and inverted uterus?

Answer 4

uterine relaxation such as halothan and/or emergency surgery
terbutaline and magnesium sulfate can also be utilized to relax the uterus
oxytocin given to prevent re-inversion and slow down bleeding