Mechanism and Clinical Applications of Amnioinfusion
Primary Mechanisms of Action
- Amnioinfusion works by infusing normal saline solution into the uterine cavity to increase amniotic fluid volume, which relieves umbilical cord compression and dilutes meconium when present, as recommended by the American Academy of Family Physicians 1, 2
- Amnioinfusion relieves umbilical cord compression by increasing the amniotic fluid volume, thereby creating more space around the umbilical cord and reducing the risk of compression during contractions, according to the American Academy of Family Physicians 2
Clinical Applications
During Labor
- Amnioinfusion is indicated for recurrent, moderate to severe variable decelerations in fetal heart rate during labor, as stated by the American Academy of Family Physicians 1
For Previable PPROM (Preterm Prelabor Rupture of Membranes)
- Serial amnioinfusions have been investigated for previable PPROM (16-24 weeks) 3
- Current guidelines consider serial amnioinfusions for previable PPROM investigational and recommend they be used only in clinical trial settings, as suggested by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists 4, 5, 6