Supine Hypotensive Syndrome
Maternal hypotension and fetal compromise caused by compression of major blood vessels when pregnant patients lie flat on their backs.
Full Definition
Supine hypotensive syndrome occurs when the gravid uterus compresses the inferior vena cava and aorta when a pregnant patient lies supine, typically after 20 weeks gestation. This compression reduces venous return to the heart, decreasing cardiac output and maternal blood pressure, while simultaneously reducing uterine blood flow and fetal oxygenation. The condition manifests as maternal dizziness, nausea, hypotension, and potentially fetal bradycardia. Prevention involves positioning the patient with left lateral tilt or displacement of the uterus during procedures requiring supine positioning.
Usage
Usage note: Synonymous with aortocaval compression but specific term preferred in obstetric anesthesia documentation.
In Context
- "Left lateral tilt was maintained during spinal anesthesia to prevent supine hypotensive syndrome." — Anesthetic management plan
- "The patient experienced supine hypotensive syndrome during positioning, requiring immediate left uterine displacement." — Intraoperative complication note