A sandwich technique (N&H variation technique) to reduce blood loss during cesarean delivery for complete placenta previa: a randomized controlled trial

Objective: To investigate the effect of A sandwich technique Nahla & Hany variation (N&H) technique versus stepwise uterine devascularization on blood loss during cesarean section (CS) in patients with complete placenta previa. Methods: The study was single-blind randomized controlled trial carried out in a tertiary University Hospital between March 2015 to March 2018. We included patients scheduled for CS due to complete placenta previa. They were randomly allocated to group (I) managed by stepwise uterine devascularization, group (II) managed by double transverse compression suture at the lower uterine segment plus intrauterine inflated Foley's catheter Balloon (H&N variation sandwich) at the lower uterine segment. The primary outcome was the amount of total estimated blood loss both intra- and post-operative. Results: One hundred and six patients were enrolled (n = 53 in each group). There was a great reduction in intraoperative blood loss in group II 570 (400-1300) compared with Group I 1030 (500-1540) (p = .0001), or blood in the intraabdominal drain in group II than group I (p = .0001) Also, there was no significant reduction in postoperative vaginal bleeding. Hence, the total estimated blood loss in group II 750 (550-1580) showed significant reduction compared with group I 1350 (780-1800) (p = .0001). Conclusions: N&H variation sandwich technique in the management of complete placenta previa is a simple technique, safe and effective to decrease blood loss.