Fetomaternal outcome in severe preeclampsia and eclampsia: a retrospective study in a tertiary care centre

Abstract

Background: Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy are a leading cause of maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity worldwide. In India, they account for the third most important cause of maternal mortality. The objectives of this study were to evaluate maternal and perinatal outcome and complications in cases with severe preeclampsia and eclampsia.Methods: A retrospective study was carried out on 110 women with severe preeclampsia and eclampsia in a tertiary care referral centre over a period of 15 months. Only those cases with initial B.P reading of ≥160/110 mm Hg or presenting with eclampsia were included in the study. Investigations and management were carried out as per standardized department protocol and maternal and fetal outcomes were analyzed.Results: 42% of the cases were in the age group of 26-30 years, nearly 61% were primigravidae and the majority (64) were referred from peripheral hospitals. Liver function tests were deranged in 19% of the patients and 17% had abnormal renal function. Nifedipine was the most commonly used antihypertensive and magnesium sulphate was the anticonvulsant used in all the cases.  Lower segment caesarean section was the mode of delivery in 64.5% of the cases. Commonest maternal complication was atonic PPH. There was no maternal mortality but there were 3 maternal near-miss cases due to DIC. 65% of the cases had a preterm delivery and 39% of the babies needed NICU admission. There were 10 neonatal deaths.Conclusions: Accessible health care and health education and awareness regarding antenatal check-ups for all women will lead to early detection of severe preeclampsia.  Prompt treatment and management of its complications will certainly improve the maternal and fetal outcome.