A patient in labor suddenly becomes hypoxic and hypotensive. Minutes later, she arrests and then begins bleeding uncontrollably. Amniotic fluid embolism (AFE) is rare, unpredictable, and potentially catastrophic. AFE requiring rapid recognition and a coordinated resuscitation before the diagnosis is ever certain. In this episode, Drs. Caroline Bank and Kim Bambach discuss a practical approach to recognizing and managing AFE, including the clinical clues that distinguish it from other causes of maternal collapse, pregnancy-modified resuscitation, management of right ventricular failure and coagulopathy, and the importance of early multidisciplinary activation. They also discuss what happens after survival, from team debriefing to communicating with patients after a traumatic birth. This episode is part of the Ohio CORES (Collaborative Obstetric Resuscitation Education and Simulation) series at The Ohio State University, supported by a grant from the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. Guest: Caroline Bank, MD; Host: Kim Bambach, MD; Editor: Nick Roesel Key Learning Points 1. Think of the “3 Bs”: Breathing, Blood Pressure, and Bleeding AFE is a clinical diagnosis. Consider it when a laboring or recently postpartum patient develops sudden: Hypoxia Hypotension Altered mental status Cardiovascular collapse or cardiac arrest Coagulopathy or unexpected bleeding The Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation describes the classic presentation using the 3 Bs: Breathing, Blood Pressure, and Bleeding. Symptoms like anxiety, restlessness, chills, or dyspnea, may precede cardiovascular collapse. 2. Timing and early coagulopathy are important clues The differential for maternal cardiovascular collapse is broad and includes pulmonary embolism, hemorrhage, eclampsia, and other causes of cardiac arrest. Two clues should particularly raise suspicion for AFE: Timing: AFE typically occurs during labor or shortly after delivery. Early coagulopathy: Sudden cardiopulmonary collapse accompanied by early DIC is particularly concerning. In hemorrhagic shock, coagulopathy generally develops as bleeding progresses and clotting factors are depleted. In AFE, coagulopathy may precede the major hemorrhage. 3. Resuscitate first, even if there is diagnostic uncertainty. When AFE is suspected: Secure the airway and optimize oxygenation. Establish adequate IV access. Support circulation with vasopressors, blood products, and appropriately selected fluids. Activate OB, anesthesia, the resuscitation/code team, and blood bank early. Anticipate rapidly evolving coagulopathy and hemorrhage. 4. If cardiac arrest occurs, use pregnancy-modified resuscitation Prioritize: High-quality CPR Airway and oxygenation Manual left uterine displacement Rapid preparation for resuscitative hysterotomy when indicated Maternal resuscitation remains the priority. The interventions that improve maternal circulation also improve fetal perfusion. 5. Think about the right ventricle Bedside echo can help identify right ventricular strain or dysfunction. Consider: Vasopressors Inotropic support Pulmonary vasodilators when available and appropriate Avoiding excessive fluid administration that may worsen RV overload 6. Activate ECMO early when available In refractory cardiovascular collapse, involve the ECMO team early rather than waiting until other options have been exhausted. Concern for hemorrhage or DIC does not necessarily preclude ECMO. Extracorporeal support can initially be initiated without anticoagulation while a patient is profoundly coagulopathic. 7. AFE resuscitation is multidisciplinary A critically ill postpartum patient may simultaneously require maternal resuscitation, hemorrhage control, massive transfusion, neonatal resuscitation, and advanced cardiovascular support. Clearly divide responsibilities according to team expertise: ED: code leadership, airway, vascular access, resuscitation OB: uterine and hemorrhage management NICU/neonatal team: neonatal resuscitation ECMO team: advanced mechanical circulatory support when indicated Early role assignment allows multiple critical interventions to occur simultaneously rather than sequentially. 8. The resuscitation does not end with ROSC Survivors of AFE may face substantial physical and psychological consequences. Coordinated post-arrest care, rehabilitation, and support for both patients and clinicians following a traumatic delivery. Further Resources Amniotic Fluid Embolism Foundation