Ankle Fracture Surgery on a Pregnant Patient Complicated by Intraoperative Emergency Caesarian Section. (2nd June 2013)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Schwarzkopf, Ran; Gross, Steven C.; Coopersmith, Allen; Gidumal, Ramesh
• Other Names: Erler K. Academic Editor.; Han I. Academic Editor.; Perrini P. Academic Editor.; Tsurumoto T. Academic Editor.
• Is Part Of: Case reports in orthopedics. Volume 2013(2013)
• Publication Date: 2013-06-02
• Subjects: Orthopedics -- Periodicals; Orthopedics; Orthopedics; Periodicals; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 616.7
• DOI: 10.1155/2013/962794
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2090-6749

Abstract

Abstract : We report the case of a woman in the third trimester of pregnancy who sustained an ankle fracture dislocation that could not be adequately closed reduced. After discussions with the patient, her obstetrician, and the anesthesiologists, she was indicated for surgical fixation. A heart tone monitor was used to assess fetal health during the procedure. During surgical incision, the fetus went into distress, and an emergency caesarian section was performed. After delivery of the infant and abdominal closer, surgery was completed. Due to a cohesive team effort, both the patient and her infant had excellent outcomes. There are many important considerations in the surgical management of the pregnant patient with traumatic orthopaedic injuries. Of especial importance to the orthopaedic surgeon is the impact of patient positioning on uteroplacental blood flow. This report discusses factors that should be taken into account by any orthopaedist who plans to operate on a pregnant patient.