Medical Responsibility in the Operating Room: The Example of an Amniotic Fluid Embolism

• NCJ Number: 241251
• Journal: Journal of Forensic Sciences Volume: 57 Issue: 4 Dated: July 2012 Pages: 1120-1123
• Author(s): Nicolas Franchitto, M.D.; Vincent Minville, M.D.; Fabrice Dédouit, M.D., Ph.D.; Norbert Telmon, M.D., Ph.D.; Daniel Rougé, M.D., Ph.D.
• Date Published: July 2012
• Length: 4 pages
• Publication Format: Article
• Publication Type: Research (Applied/Empirical)
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America

Annotation

This research examined the cause of death during a surgical procedure.

Abstract

Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) continues to be one of the most feared complications of pregnancy. A healthy 32-year-old woman died during delivery after a normal 39-week third pregnancy. The family filed a complaint with a criminal court as the causes of death appeared unclear. No risk factor associated with AFE was identified. Clinical presentation was typical, including sudden onset of cardiovascular and respiratory symptoms. Autopsy confirmed the histological diagnosis of amniotic embolism and excluded an iatrogenic cause of death or anesthetic malpractice. This article highlights the value of both antemortem records and histological features in establishing the diagnosis of AFE and demonstrates the fundamental importance of autopsy in an unexpected death related directly or indirectly to a medical procedure. Abstract published by arrangement with John Wiley & Sons.