The Role of Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Amniotic Fluid Embolism: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is a rare and life-threatening complication related to pregnancy. Early diagnosis and prompt intervention are important tools for the survival of the patient. Despite early intervention, mortality rate remains high. We present a case of a 19-year-old female who was admitted for labor induction and delivery. Her delivery course was complicated by meconium-stained amniotic fluid. The patient went into acute hypoxic respiratory failure (AHRF) and hemodynamic compromise within half an hour following delivery secondary to AFE. We hereby discuss the role of timely initiation of extra corporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in a case of AFE which could have otherwise turned out to be fatal.