The uterine sandwich for persistent uterine atony: combining the B-Lynch compression suture and an intrauterine Bakri balloon

OBJECTIVE: The objective of the study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a combination of surgical interventions for control of postpartum hemorrhage. STUDY DESIGN: At cesarean delivery, patients with persistent bleeding from uterine atony after the administration of oxytonics were treated with the placement of a B- Lynch suture. When the B- Lynch failed, subsequent placement of an intrauterine Bakri balloon followed. This combination is termed the uterine sandwich. RESULTS: The uterine sandwich was successful for all 5 patients undergoing this approach. The median nadir hematocrit was 21.1% range 20.1% to 28%). The balloon was in place for a median duration of 11hours ( range10- 24 hours). The median volume infused into the balloon was 100 mL (range 60- 250 mL). No complications were observed. CONCLUSION: Placing an intrauterine Bakri balloon in conjunction with the B- Lynch uterine compression suture was successful in treating uterine atony.