Massive Obstetric Hemorrhage in a Jehovah's Witness: Intraoperative Strategies and High-Dose Erythropoietin Use

 

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ABSTRACT

A massive obstetric hemorrhage resulting in an extremely low hematocrit (5.9%) required innovative intraoperative and postoperative management. We used a combination of rapid intraoperative volume replacement, aortic compression, chemical coma, high-dose erythropoietin, and enteral iron replacement to elevate the hematocrit in a patient refusing blood transfusions.

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Michael BelfortM.D. Ph.D. 

Maternal Fetal Services of Utah

1140 East 3900 South #390, Salt Lake City, UT 84124

Email: michael.belfort@hcahealthcare.com