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Intrauterine balloon tamponade (Bakri)

Atonic PPH not controlled by uterotonics — the “tamponade test”.

Source: Bakri instructions for use · RCOG GTG 52

Steps

  1. Confirm cavity empty; exclude trauma / arterial bleed.
  2. Insert vaginally under ultrasound or by hand (or via hysterotomy at CS).
  3. Fill with sterile saline up to 500 ml max — never air.
  4. Vaginal gauze pack to hold it; drainage port to monitor loss.
  5. Oxytocin infusion; catheter; antibiotics per unit.
  6. Keep in ≤24 h; deflate gradually where you can return to theatre.
A summary for trained clinicians. Always check the full guideline, the patient in front of you and your hospital's protocol. Spotted an error? Tell us.