Aortocaval compression syndrome
Medical condition
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Aortocaval compression syndrome, also known as supine hypotensive 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 result in loss of consciousness[1] and in extreme circumstances fetal demise.[2][3]
Other namesSupine hypotensive syndrome
| Aortocaval compression syndrome | |
|---|---|
| Other names | Supine hypotensive syndrome |
| |
| A watercolor drawing of a pregnant woman lying flat on her back, causing the aorta and inferior vena cava to compress and reduce circulation. | |
| Specialty | Obstetrics and gynaecology |