Aortocaval compression syndrome

Aortocaval compression syndrome, is compression of the abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava by the gravid uterus when a pregnant woman lies on her back, i.e. in the supine position. It is a frequent cause of low maternal blood pressure (hypotension), which can in result in loss of consciousness [cite journal | author = Kiefer R, Ploppa A, Dieterich H | title = [Aortocaval compression syndrome] | journal = Anaesthesist | volume = 52 | issue = 11 | pages = 1073–83; quiz 1084 | year = 2003 | pmid = 14992095] and in extreme circumstances fetal demise. [cite journal | author = Banaś T, Godula Z, Herman R | title = [Aortocaval compression syndrome as an explanation of sudden intrauterine death of mature twins at term. Case report] | journal = Ginekol Pol | volume = 75 | issue = 8 | pages = 633–7 | year = 2004 | pmid = 15517787]

Aortocaval compression is thought to be the cause of supine hypotensive syndrome. Supine hypotensive syndrome is characterized by pallor, tachycardia, sweating, nausea, hypotension and dizziness and occurs when a pregnant woman lies on her back and resolves when they are turned on their side. [Sharma S. Shock and Pregnancy. eMedicine.com. URL: [http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3285.htm http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3285.htm] . Accessed on: March 11, 2007.]

ee also

*Inferior vena cava syndrome

References