Cesarean hysterectomy requiring emergent thoracotomy: a case report of a complication of placenta percreta requiring a multidisciplinary effort.

BACKGROUND

Currently a leading indication for cesarean hysterectomy among multiparous women, placenta accreta is associated with significant maternal morbidity and mortality.

CASE: A 34-year-old woman with a pregnancy complicated by placenta previa and previous cesarean deliveries was transferred to our institution following late diagnosis of placenta percreta. She underwent cesarean hysterectomy complicated by substantial hemorrhage. Massive blood product replacement precipitated severe hyperkaIemia and hypocalcemia with resultant asystole. Cardiac bypass with concomitant obligate anticoagulation was temporarily required while normalizing the patient's electrolytes. Numerous surgical and medical interventions were required to achieve hemostasis, and the patient survived to hospital discharge with moderate residual morbidity.

CONCLUSION

Optimal management of placenta accreta requires a multidisciplinary approach within a tertiary center possessing extensive resources necessary for managing the most severe complications.