Aortocaval compression syndrome
Other namesSupine hypotensive syndrome
A watercolor drawing of a pregnant woman lying flat on her back, causing the aorta and inferior vena cava to compress and reduce circulation.
SpecialtyObstetrics and gynaecology

Aortocaval compression syndrome also known as Supine hypotensive 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 result in loss of consciousness[1] and in extreme circumstances fetal demise.[2][3]

Signs and symptoms

Aortocaval compression syndrome may cause syncope, restlessness, dizziness, headache, tinnitus, visual disturbances, numbness or paresthesia of the limbs, abdominal/chest discomfort or pain, nausea, and vomiting.[4] Some patients may be asymptomatic.[5]

See also

References

  1. ↑ Kiefer R, Ploppa A, Dieterich H (2003). "[Aortocaval compression syndrome]". Der Anaesthesist. 52 (11): 1073–83, quiz 1084. doi:10.1007/s00101-003-0596-6. PMID 14992095. S2CID 8424182.
  2. ↑ Banaś T, Godula Z, Herman R (2004). "[Aortocaval compression syndrome as an explanation of sudden intrauterine death of mature twins at term. Case report]". Ginekol Pol. 75 (8): 633–7. PMID 15517787.
  3. ↑ American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (2018). Nancy Caroline's Emergency Care in the Streets (8th ed.). Jones & Bartlett Publishers. p. 2036.
  4. ↑ Zhao, Pei-Shan (September 1, 2014). "Supine Hypotensive Syndrome: A Comprehensive Review of Literature". Translational Perioperative and Pain Medicine. Transpopmed. Retrieved December 29, 2023.
  5. ↑ SW, Lee; KS, Khaw; WD, Ngan Kee; TY, Leung; LA, Critchley (2012). "Haemodynamic effects from aortocaval compression at different angles of lateral tilt in non-labouring term pregnant women". British Journal of Anaesthesia. Br J Anaesth. 109 (6): 950–956. doi:10.1093/bja/aes349. ISSN 1471-6771. PMID 23059960.

Further reading

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