Managing Gynaecological Emergencies PDF

PREFACE

This book is written for gynaecologists in training. However, we hope that the concise format will help others, including general practice trainees and specialist nurses, in the management of gynaecological emergencies. Our aim has been to produce a single text, containing a safe and pragmatic approach to the multitude of practical problems and professional dilemmas facing the gynaecologist in day-to-day emergency practice. The book not only discusses specific gynaecological emergencies, but also reviews critical care of medical emergencies as they befall the gynaecology patient, as well as peri-operative assessment. It is written in a style designed to make access to information as easy as possible.

The book is a collection of "Action Plans" for emergency care. The management plans are concise but comprehensive. The aim is to take the reader through logical, safe steps. It may not be necessary to work through to the end of each plan: this will depend on patient condition and the effectiveness of preceding steps. It is recommended that to manage the condition comprehensively, the whole chapter is consulted in moments of less urgency.

The text is divided into sections, covering emergencies and complications in: general gynaecology, early pregnancy, gynaecological surgery, urogynaecology and gynaecological oncology. The appendices cover problems and issues arising in the peri-operative period, commoner medical emergencies affecting gynaecology inpatients and the often difficult professional issues of risk management and consent. This is a sister book to the text Managing Obstetric Emergencies (BIOS, 1999).

We dedicate this book to our late friend and colleague Professor Richard Johanson, whose premature death on 21st February 2002 was a significant loss to the specialty of obstetrics and gynaecology. It was Richard's intention to act as guest editor to this text and it was his inspiration and encouragement that made it possible. We are also grateful to all of our co-authors who have given freely of their time and expertise. Finally, we must acknowledge the support of the editorial staff at BIOS who have cajoled and encouraged us over the last 18 months!