Arterial balloon occlusion of the hypogastric arteries: A life-saving procedure for severe obstetric hemorrhage

In this case report we describe two patients with life-threatening postpartum hemorrhage who were treated successfully with arterial balloon occlusion of the hypogastric arteries. Arterial balloon occlusion is easy to perform and is applicable under difficult circumstances. The technique should be available in all hospitals that provide obstetric services. Obstetricians should know about it so they can ask their radiologic colleagues to perform the procedure. (Am J Obstet Gynecol 2001;185:1255-6.)