Sumo-compression Stops Post Partum Haemorrhage

Abstract

Post partum haemorrhage (PPH) from uterine atony or extensive trauma of vaginal tissue is a major cause of maternal mortality. Compression of vaginal tissue and uterus by tightly packing the vagina with laparotomy pads is described as a novel approach for the management of PPH. A bandage is placed as a very tight belt above the uterus. Counterpressure is achieved by a second bandage, which runs from anterior to posterior and is tied to the belt pressing the pads inside the vagina firmly against the uterus. The term Sumo-compression was chosen to remind people of the pants of the Japanese wrestlers. Using this method 5 women were successfully treated between January 2010 and October 2012.