Publication:

Efficacy of internal iliac artery ligation for control of post-partum haemorrhage

Background Pelvic hemorrhage is associated with a great degree of morbidity and mortality and has to be controlled immediately. Ligation of the internal iliac arteries is a method to achieve the goal. We conducted this study to assess the outcome, effectiveness and complications of internal iliac artery ligation (IIAL) in controlling postpartum haemorrhage.

Methods This study was a retrospective study conducted in a rural tertiary referral centre from April 2015 to March 2018. IIAL was performed in women with PPH either at caesarean section or at laparotomy performed at a variable time after vaginal or caesarean delivery.

Results Over the study period of 3 years, 29 cases of IIAL were performed. The most common indication for IIAL was atonic PPH. Uterine salvagability was 62% in this study.

Conclusions All obstetric surgeons should be fully aware of the indications, timing and technical aspects of IIAL. Bilateral internal iliac artery ligation remains a safe, fast, effective and life saving salvage procedure which should be encouraged and used routinely by obstetricians when faced with cases of severe obstetric hemorrhage, especially in young women of low parity.