Successful treatment of severe myocardial failure after postpartum haemorrhage with the use of an intra-aortic balloon pump

Abstract

We report a 29-year-old primigravid who developed cardiac failure following postpartum haemorrhage unresponsive to volume resuscitation and therapy with catecholamines and phosphodiesterase-inhibitors. Transoesophageal echocardiography (TEE) demonstrated left atrial and ventricular dilatation and global left ventricular hypokinesis. No elevation of serum MB-isoenzyme fraction was detected and other organ functions remained stable. Although emergency cardiac transplantation was considered in the presented patient, the institution of intra-aortic counterpulsation was decided on as a first treatment option. Intra-aortic balloon counterpulsation rapidly improved cardiac function and led to weaning from pharmacological cardiac support within a few days. Mechanical circulatory assist devices can be life-saving in postpartum-haemorrhage-associated cardiac failure.