Coagulation Factor Changes Associated With Postpartum Hysterectomies
Completed
Conditions studied: Obstetric Labor Complications, Hemorrhage, Complications; Cesarean Section
In brief
The purpose of this study is to examine components of the coagulation system in women undergoing postpartum hysterectomy and to compare laboratory parameters of coagulation in these women to women at increased risk for a postpartum hysterectomy, but who do not have postpartum hemorrhage and a postpartum hysterectomy. During normal pregnancy, the hemostatic balance tips toward hypercoagulation. Non-obstetric surgical blood loss is associated with increased coagulation activity. We have observed that women undergoing a postpartum hysterectomy become hypocoagulable secondary to a consumptive coagulopathy and/or excessive fibrinolysis. This coagulopathy may lead to the administration of multiple blood products. Worldwide, postpartum hemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal death. Plasma levels of tissue plasminogen activator, urokinase plasminogen activator and their inhibitors increase during pregnancy. During labor and delivery activation of coagulation occurs with consumption of platelets, coagulation factors and inhibitors. Obstetric complications during delivery can excessively activate the coagulation system and disseminated intravascular coagulation may ensue. Current treatment for postpartum coagulopathy is non-specific and primarily consists of replacing blood components. If specific causes or markers of abnormal coagulation can be identified in women at risk, then it might be possible to target (with specific medications) specific abnormalities early in the process and decrease hemorrhage and the need for blood transfusions.
Key facts
- Study ID
- NCT00456547
- Run by
- Northwestern University
- People needed
- 24
- Starts
- 2003-12-01
- Expected to finish
- 2006-12-01
- Last updated by the study team
- 2014-04-14
Who can join
Age: 18 and older, up to 60. Sex: female. Healthy volunteers: accepted.
You may qualify if…
- All women scheduled for a Cesarean-hysterectomy will be asked to enroll in the study, as well as the women with the following diagnoses, that puts them at increased risk for Cesarean hysterectomy: placenta previa, placenta accreta, vaginal trial of labor after previous Cesarean delivery.
You may not qualify if…
- Anyone who does not fit the above criteria.
Where it is running
- Northwestern University — Chicago, Illinois, United States
Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov
Trial information comes from ClinicalTrials.gov and is refreshed daily. TrialsForMe does not provide medical care and does not run the studies it lists.