The haematological features and transfusion management of women who required massive transfusion for major obstetric haemorrhage in the UK: a population based study

Summary Understanding the coagulopathy of major‐obstetric‐haemorrhage (MOH) that leads to massive‐transfusion (MT) is fundamental to improving outcomes. This study reports on the haematological features and transfusion management of women experiencing MT [defined as transfusion of ≥8 units of red blood cells (RBC) within 24 h of delivery]. One hundred and eighty‐one cases [median (interquartile range; IQR) age 33 years (29–36)] were identified from all UK hospitals, using the UK Obstetric Surveillance System between July 2012 and June 2013. The median (IQR) estimated blood loss was 6 l (4·5–8). At presentation, the median platelet count was lowest for placenta accreta, compared with other causes, while the median prothrombin time and fibrinogen were