Outcomes of Pregnant Patients Presenting with Neurosurgical Emergencies - A Retrospective Cohort Study in a Tertiary Care Hospital in India

Dr. Shireen Mumtaz Barbhuiya, Dr. Sheikh Khurshid Alam Ali

Abstract: Introduction: Pregnant patients presenting with neurosurgical emergencies represent a unique clinical challenge due to the need for immediate intervention while considering both maternal and fetal well-being. Methods: This retrospective cohort study evaluated outcomes in 24 pregnant patients presenting with such emergencies over five years at a tertiary care hospital. Traumatic brain injuries, intracranial hemorrhages, and brain tumors were the most common conditions. Factors such as the nature of the neurosurgical emergency, diagnostic approaches, management strategies, and maternal and fetal outcomes were analyzed. Results: Timely diagnosis and multidisciplinary management yielded favorable maternal outcomes in most cases (maternal mortality 8.3%), though fetal outcomes varied, with 25% preterm births and one stillbirth. Results underscore the need for rapid, coordinated care tailored to gestational age and condition severity to optimize survival and minimize morbidity. Discussion: Results underscore the need for rapid, coordinated care tailored to gestational age and condition severity to optimize survival and minimize morbidity. Despite their rarity, tailored strategies based on existing evidence are crucial for improving outcomes. Conclusions: Neurosurgical emergencies in pregnancy require rapid, coordinated care to protect both mother and fetus. Personalized approaches based on evidence are crucial for improving outcomes.

Keywords: Pregnancy, Neurosurgical emergencies, Subarachnoid hemorrhage, Tumors, Traumatic brain injury