Normovolemic hemodilution before cesarean hysterectomy for placenta percreta.

BACKGROUND

Placenta percreta can create life-threatening hemorrhage at the time of delivery. The additional challenge of patient refusal of blood transfusion for religious reasons requires the use of comprehensive blood-conserving strategies.

CASE: A Jehovah's Witness with two previous cesarean deliveries and a placenta previa was diagnosed antenatally as having placenta percreta. Acute normovolemic hemodilution was performed in conjunction with cesarean hysterectomy with no maternal or fetal side effects.

CONCLUSION

Acute normovolemic hemodilution can be used safely in the pregnant woman at high risk for excessive intraoperative blood loss and should be considered in obstetric patients who strictly adhere to religious convictions prohibiting the acceptance of blood products.