Role of Bakri Balloon in Management of Postpartum Haemorrhage

  Objective  To investigate the role of Bakri balloon insertion following unsuccessful medical management of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH).

  Methods  The clinical features of patients with PPH managed with Bakri balloon in our department between January and July 2012 were retrospectively reviewed. The therapeutic role of Bakri balloon was analyzed.

  Results  Eight cases were managed with Bakri balloon during the study period. Caesarean section (CS) was performed in all these cases, among whom seven were due to placenta previa. Two cases had disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC). Three cases needed a second procedure to stop the bleeding, among whom two had placenta previa, previous CS, and placenta accreta. No patient experienced postpartum abdominal pain or fever.

  Conclusions  Bakri balloon tamponade is effective and safe in the management of PPH unresponsive to standard management. Patients should be carefully monitored after the placement of Bakri balloon. Central placenta previa with a history of CS, placenta accreta or placenta adherence may impact the success of Bakri balloon placement.