Frequency, Type of Trauma, and Complications in Pregnant Women due to Traffic Accidents: A Multicenter Study in Three High-Complexity Obstetric Institutions in Medellín between 2010 and 2017

Abstract

Introduction: The high frequency of traffic accidents poses a challenge for healthcare institutions when pregnant women are involved, due to their increased vulnerability to injuries and complications that jeopardize both pregnancy viability and the fetus.
Objective: To determine the frequency and describe the characteristics of trauma in pregnant women involved in traffic accidents admitted to three high-complexity obstetric institutions in Medellín, Colombia.
Methods: A cross-sectional, descriptive, and retrospective study was con-ducted on pregnant women treated for traffic accidents at three obstetric referral centers between 2010 and 2017 in Medellín, Colombia. Summary measures of gestational data, trauma, and complications were obtained from medical records.
Results: A total of 125 pregnant women were identified, with 48% in the second trimester. The most common mode of transportation and role was as a passenger in an automobile. Contusive trauma was the most prevalent. Generalized osteomuscular pain was reported by 35.5% of women. Vaginal bleeding occurred in 4.8%, uterine activity in 2.4%, and there was one preterm birth, one abortion, and no maternal deaths. The most frequent post-trauma obstetric complications were vaginal bleeding in the first and second trimesters, and uterine activity in the third trimester.
Conclusions: The effects of trauma from traffic accidents on pregnant women can jeopardize the maternal-fetal dyad. Obstetric implications vary according to the gestational trimester. Providing guidance on road safety and prioritizing medical evaluation would enable timely management of pregnant women and minimize adverse outcomes in this event.