Health Dictionary
Reliable, easy-to-read patient information on common medical conditions β written in plain language, free of jargon, and grounded in current evidence. Browse the most frequent diagnoses, understand what they mean for everyday life, and learn which steps and questions help you have a focused conversation with your doctor.
Aortocaval compression syndrome
Introduction
Editor(s)-in-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S.,M.D. [1] Phone:617-632-7753; Santosh Patel M.D., F.R.C.A. [2]
Overview
Overview
Aortocaval compression syndrome, is compression of the abdominal aorta and inferior vena cava by the gravid uterus when a pregnant woman lies on her back, i.e. in the supine position. It is a frequent cause of low maternal blood pressure (hypotension), which can result in loss of consciousness[1] and in extreme circumstances fetal demise.[2]
Aortocaval compression is thought to be the cause of supine hypotensive syndrome. Supine hypotensive syndrome is characterized by pallor, tachycardia, sweating, nausea, hypotension and dizziness and occurs when a pregnant woman lies on her back and resolves when they are turned on their side.[3]
References
References
- β Kiefer R, Ploppa A, Dieterich H (2003). “[Aortocaval compression syndrome]”. Anaesthesist. 52 (11): 1073β83, quiz 1084. PMID 14992095.
- β BanaΕ T, Godula Z, Herman R (2004). “[Aortocaval compression syndrome as an explanation of sudden intrauterine death of mature twins at term. Case report]”. Ginekol Pol. 75 (8): 633β7. PMID 15517787.
- β Sharma S. Shock and Pregnancy. eMedicine.com. URL: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3285.htm. Accessed on: March 11, 2007.