Autopsy study of maternal deaths

Dr. Kurdukar M. D.; Dr. Khiste J. A.; Dr. Pandit G.A.; Dr. Rakhonde S. V.; Dr. Kurdukar D V

Volume : VI, Issue : X, October - 2017

Autopsy study of maternal deaths

Dr. Kurdukar M. D. , Dr. Khiste J. A. , Dr. Pandit G. A. , Dr. Rakhonde S. V. , Dr. Kurdukar D V

Abstract :

Background :

Reduction in maternal mortality is a global health priority. WHO claims some progress towards reduction in maternal mortality especially in the past few decades. The key requirement in further reduction is to understand the causes of deaths and formulate effective policy and health program strategies.

Aim:

Evaluation of causes of maternal deaths based on autopsy findings and their categorization as per WHO application of ICD 10 Maternal Mortality(MM) .

Materials and Methods :

The present study comprised of 160 cases of maternal deaths .The complete autopsy was done by a team. Detailed external, in situ and gross examination of organs was done. Representative bits from all organs were taken and processed as per the standard protocol. Slides were examined to establish the cause of death.

All deaths were categorized as per WHO application of ICD 10 MM. The causes of deaths were analyzed.

Results:

• Direct causes outnumbered indirect causes. Amongst direct causes obstetric haemorrhage topped the list (56.64% ) followed by pregnancy induced hypertension (26.55%). Amongst indirect causes a wide range was found involving different systems. Contributory causes were found in (119)74.37 % of cases.

Conclusion:

Majority of maternal deaths were due to direct causes ( 70.62%). Potentially preventable causes were haemorrhage and sepsis. Present study emphasizes categorization of maternal deaths as per WHO application of ICD10MM coding system as it gives leading cause as direct or indirect causes and contributory causes of maternal deaths.