New Mother Dies After Rare Amniotic Fluid Embolism Complication

A woman in her 40s, who was hospitalized in critical condition after suffering an amniotic fluid embolism during childbirth, died Friday morning at the Sheba Medical Center in Tel Hashomer. The mother, with no known prior medical conditions, underwent prolonged resuscitation and was connected to an ECMO machine, which temporarily replaces heart and lung functions. Despite the efforts of medical teams to save her life, she passed away. Her baby was safely delivered and is in good condition.

The incident occurred several days ago during a delivery at Mayanei Hayeshua Medical Center in Bnei Brak. Following a severe deterioration in her condition, the mother was transferred to Sheba Medical Center, where she was admitted to the cardiac surgery intensive care unit and placed on ECMO. Mayanei Hayeshua stated that a senior multidisciplinary team fought for her life.

Amniotic fluid embolism is a rare and life-threatening obstetric complication that typically occurs during or shortly after childbirth. It is believed to be caused by the entry of amniotic fluid or fetal material into the mother's bloodstream, triggering an extreme inflammatory response. This can lead to sudden cardiovascular collapse, respiratory failure, and severe blood clotting disorders. The condition is unpredictable, cannot be diagnosed in advance, and requires immediate medical attention.

Despite its rarity, amniotic fluid embolism is considered a leading cause of maternal mortality in several countries. A comprehensive review published in the American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology indicates it occurs in approximately one in 15,000 births in North America and one in 54,000 in Europe. Mortality rates for affected mothers range from 13% to 30%, with infants also at high risk, experiencing mortality rates between 9% and 44%.