KMC Hospital in Mangaluru recently managed a challenging high-risk pregnancy case involving Rh factor alloimmunization, which poses significant risks for expectant mothers and their babies. The hospital successfully treated a mother facing complications during her third pregnancy, following a tragic outcome in her previous childbirth.
Close Monitoring and Intervention
Under the care of Dr. Sameena H, consultant OBG at KMC Hospital, and her dedicated team, the expectant mother’s pregnancy was closely monitored with repeated blood investigations. Despite negative results until the 30th week, the 32nd-week ICT (indirect Coombs test) returned positive with high titers, indicating fetal anaemia, a critical condition requiring careful management.
Understanding Rh Incompatibility
Dr. Sameena highlighted the complexities of Rh factor alloimmunization, wherein the mother’s negative Rh blood group reacts adversely to the fetus’s positive Rh blood group, leading to complications in subsequent pregnancies.
Specialized Procedure for Severe Fetal Anaemia
Dr. Pundalik Baliga, consultant of fetal medicine, emphasized the necessity of Intrauterine Transfusion (IUT) to manage severe fetal anaemia. The hospital’s department of blood transfusion and immunohematology swiftly arranged the required O Negative irradiated and leukocyte-depleted packed red blood cells for the procedure.
Meticulous Procedure Ensures Safety
Dr. Baliga and his team performed the intrauterine transfusion meticulously, ensuring precision and safety for both mother and baby. Prolonging the pregnancy until the 35th week was crucial to mitigate risks associated with premature delivery and ensure the baby’s well-being.
Postnatal Care and Recovery
Dr. Mario J Bukelo, consultant neonatologist and paediatrician, oversaw the postnatal care, addressing the baby’s anaemia with two exchange transfusions to improve haemoglobin and bilirubin levels, facilitating a healthy recovery.
Appreciation for Team Efforts
Saghir Siddiqui, regional chief operating officer, commended the collaborative efforts of the hospital’s medical teams in successfully managing the high-risk pregnancy case, underscoring their dedication and expertise in ensuring positive outcomes for mother and baby.
