FETOMATERNAL OUTCOMES OF ECLAMPSIA AT LIAQUAT MEMORIAL TEACHING HOSPITAL KOHAT

Abstract

Background: Eclampsia remains a significant cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, particularly in resource-limited settings. Delays in diagnosis, inadequate antenatal care, and suboptimal management contribute to poor outcomes. Understanding the factors influencing fetomaternal outcomes can help improve management strategies and reduce complications. Objective: To evaluate the fetomaternal outcomes of eclamptic patients managed at Liaquat Memorial Teaching Hospital, Kohat, and identify preventable factors contributing to adverse outcomes. Study Design: Descriptive cross-sectional study. Setting: Liaquat Memorial Teaching Hospital, Kohat. Duration of Study: Six months (08/06/2024—08/12/2024). Methods: A total of 83 eclamptic patients diagnosed between 24 weeks of gestation and 42 days postpartum were included. Data collection involved detailed medical histories, physical examinations, and fetal monitoring. Standard management protocols included magnesium sulfate for seizure control, antihypertensive therapy, and obstetric interventions based on clinical assessment. Maternal outcomes assessed included acute kidney injury (AKI), pulmonary edema, and maternal mortality. Fetal outcomes recorded were intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), preterm birth, and fetal mortality. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics applied to assess frequencies and percentages. Results: The mean maternal age was 31.34 ± 6.643 years, with an average gestational age of 35.95 ± 2.85 weeks. Pre-eclamptic signs were observed in 83.1% of patients. Maternal complications included AKI in 4.8% of cases, pulmonary edema in 6.0%, and a maternal mortality rate of 7.2%. Among fetal outcomes, 47.0% of cases exhibited IUGR, while 49.4% were preterm births. Fetal mortality was recorded at 8.4%, with 91.6% of neonates surviving. Conclusion: Eclampsia remains a critical contributor to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Early diagnosis, effective management, and enhanced antenatal care are essential for improving outcomes. Reducing delays in detection and referral, particularly in resource-constrained settings, is crucial to minimizing complications and enhancing maternal and neonatal survival.