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Acute Respiratory Failure in Pregnancy
M.K. Daga (Associate Professor)
K.K.Sawlani (Senior Resident)
Department of Medicine, Maulana Azad Medical College and Associated Lok Nayak Hospital, New Delhi, India
Key Points
- Acute respiratory failure (ARF) is an important cause of maternal and foetal morbidity and mortality.
- Knowledge of normal maternal-foetal physiology and determinants of foetal oxygen delivery (i.e. uterine blood flow, placental transfer, foetal circulation) can help sustain normal foetal development, usually without compromising maternal care.
- Treatment of ARF in pregnancy is largely supportive, including mechanical ventilation, haemodynamic support, nutrition, and prophylaxis against thromboembolism.
- Pregnant patients with asthma need to be followed-up particularly closely.
- Optimal management of the maternal-foetal pair requires the cooperation of an obstetrician well versed in cardiopulmonary physiology and physicians skilled in intensive care medication.
Editor's Comment
This overview discusses the features and management of some of the respiratory-related conditions that can complicate pregnancy.
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