Abstract
Background: Abruptio placentae is the premature separation of a normally sited placenta after the age of viability but before delivery. It is an important cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality unless prompt treatments are instituted to salvage the fetus. Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence, risk factors, maternal and foetal outcomes of abruptio placentae. Materials and Methods: The study was a retrospective review of patients managed for abruptio placentae between 1st January 2017 and 31st December 2019 at the Federal Teaching Hospital, Gombe. Result: Out of 7,556 deliveries recorded, 154 patients were treated for abruptio placentae, giving a prevalence rate of 1.76%. The most frequent risk factor identified was hypertension in 58.6% of patients, followed by previous uterine instrumentation and previous abruption. Anaemia was the commonest complication observed in 49.6% of patients, followed by hypovolaemic shock in 15.8%. Birth asphyxia was seen in 29.3% of the neonates, and up to 30.8% were admitted into the special care baby unit. The perinatal mortality rate was 54.9%. There were two maternal deaths due to abruptio placentae during the study period. This gave a case fatality rate of 1.5%. Conclusion: The prevalence of Abruptio placentae is 1.76%, with hypertension being the most commonly identified risk factor. The condition is associated with high perinatal morbidity and mortality often due to late presentation. Early referral and prompt institution of management are advocated for improved outcomes.
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