Gynecology & Obstetrics
Open Access

Abstract

Management of Placenta Accreta Complicated by Pulmonary Embolus and Heparin Induced Thrombocytopenia

Robert Johnston C, Morgan Swank L and Vineet Shrivastava K

Background: Placenta accreta threatens both fetal and maternal health in multiple ways.

Case: We present a 39 year-old gravid 5, para 3 with known placenta accreta, whose antenatal course was complicated by development of massive pulmonary embolus and subsequent heparin-induced thrombocytopenia. She underwent successful cesarean hysterectomy at 28 6/7 weeks’ gestation, followed by anticoagulation with a direct thrombin inhibitor.

Comment: Once rare, placenta accreta now complicates a significant number of pregnancies each year, jeopardizing both maternal and fetal health. We present a successfully managed case of placenta accreta complicated by pulmonary embolism and heparin-induced thrombocytopenia.