Sudden Intrapartum Fetal Death in Fetuses with Absent Pulmonary Valve Syndrome: Report of Two Cases

Abstract

Objective - To describe potential intrapartum complications for fetuses affected by absent pulmonary valve syndrome. Study Design - Two cases of intrapartum fetal death at full term were collected from our institution's labor and delivery unit records. Results - In both cases of intrapartum fetal death, the fetuses had been diagnosed with absent pulmonary valve syndrome and had likely experienced acute cardiac events during labor. Both were delivered as stillbirths despite emergency cesarean delivery. Conclusion - Patients should be counseled prior to labor about potential intrapartum complications for a fetus with absent pulmonary valve syndrome. Plans for fetal monitoring and the extent of aggressive intervention should be in place before labor in case sudden complications occur.

Keywords

• absent pulmonary valve syndrome
• intrapartum fetal demise
• high-risk pregnancy