[Morbid obesity: a risk factor for obstetric complications]

Ned Tijdschr Geneeskd. 2004 Nov 13;148(46):2253-6.
[Article in Dutch]

Abstract

In a primipara, 28 years of age and with a BMI of 44 kg/m2, a Zavanelli manoeuvre was performed. Due to uterine atony she had to undergo a hysterectomy. A multipara, 39 years of age and with a BMI of 66 kg/m2, experienced that her weight exceeded the limits of the beds and that local anaesthesia was hard to perform; she suffered from a lesion of the lumbosacral plexus caused by a shoulder dystocia. In the end, both mothers and their babies could go home in a moderate condition. Obesity is becoming more prevalent and brings with it an increase in obstetric risks. During pregnancy and delivery, morbidly obese patients should be monitored by a gynaecologist. Special interest should focus on screening for (gestational) diabetes, hypertension and foetal growth. Ultrasound may detect congenital malformations early; however, the sensitivity of ultrasound is lower in morbidly obese patients. When macrosomia is expected, a clear plan should be made regarding the mode of delivery. It is useful to make a treatment protocol for morbidly obese patients.

Publication types

  • Case Reports
  • Comment
  • English Abstract

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Mass Index
  • Delivery, Obstetric* / methods
  • Diabetes, Gestational / complications
  • Female
  • Fetal Macrosomia / complications
  • Humans
  • Obesity, Morbid / complications*
  • Obesity, Morbid / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / epidemiology*
  • Pregnancy Complications / prevention & control
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Risk Factors
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Ultrasonography, Prenatal / standards