Uterine-peritoneal amniotic fluid leakage: an unusual complication of intrauterine shunting

Obstet Gynecol. 1991 Nov;78(5 Pt 2):913-5.

Abstract

Bilateral pleuroamniotic shunting was performed at 33 weeks' gestation in a fetus with bilateral hydrothorax, hydrops, and gross polyhydramnios. The procedure was successful, but acute amniotic fluid leakage into the maternal peritoneal cavity occurred soon after. This produced marked maternal discomfort and transient oligohydramnios, with consequent fetal distress. Expectant management was adopted in view of fetal lung immaturity. Resolution of maternal ascites occurred within 24 hours and the fetal heart rate normalized as amniotic fluid reaccumulated. The pregnancy progressed uneventfully thereafter.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Ascites / etiology*
  • Chest Tubes*
  • Female
  • Fetal Diseases / surgery*
  • Fetal Distress / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Hydrops Fetalis / surgery*
  • Hydrothorax / surgery*
  • Oligohydramnios / etiology*
  • Polyhydramnios / surgery*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Complications / etiology*