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 in 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]

See also

• Inferior vena cava syndrome

References

1. ^ Kiefer R, Ploppa A, Dieterich H (2003). "[Aortocaval compression syndrome]". Anaesthesist 52 (11): 1073–83; quiz 1084. PMID 14992095. 
2. ^ Banaś 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): 633–7. PMID 15517787. 
3. ^ Sharma S. Shock and Pregnancy. eMedicine.com. URL: http://www.emedicine.com/med/topic3285.htm. Accessed on: March 11, 2007.

This medical article is a stub. You can help Wikipedia by expanding it.