uterine compression sutures
Surgical technique using sutures to compress the uterine muscle and control postpartum hemorrhage by reducing blood flow.
Full Definition
Uterine compression sutures are a conservative surgical approach to control severe postpartum hemorrhage when medical management fails. These techniques include B-Lynch sutures, which create vertical compression of the uterus, and Cho square sutures, which provide horizontal compression. The sutures work by compressing the uterine muscle and reducing blood flow to bleeding vessels while preserving the uterus and future fertility. Success rates vary from 75-95% depending on the underlying cause of hemorrhage and timing of application. These procedures require careful technique to avoid incorporating bowel or other structures and should be performed by surgeons experienced in obstetric emergencies.
Usage
Usage note: Specify the type of compression suture technique used (B-Lynch, Cho, etc.) in operative documentation.
In Context
- "Uterine compression sutures were placed using the B-Lynch technique to control the refractory postpartum hemorrhage." — Emergency cesarean section operative report
- "After failed medical management, uterine compression sutures successfully controlled bleeding while preserving fertility." — Obstetric emergency procedure note