Saving mothers' lives: reviewing maternal deaths to make motherhood safer: 2006-8: a review.

This review of the eighth report of the United Kingdom Enquiries into Maternal Deaths, Saving Mothers' Lives, is written primarily for anaesthetists and critical care specialists involved in both maternity and gynaecology services. Direct maternal deaths from systemic sepsis secondary to infection of the genital tract have increased. Systemic sepsis requires early recognition, immediate treatment and multidisciplinary management involving anaesthetists and critical care specialists. The incidence of deaths related to anaesthesia remains unchanged at seven in the three year period. Airway related problems unfortunately still cause maternal death. The role of early communication between obstetricians and anaesthesia and intensive care specialists is highlighted. The review summarizes the recommendations relating to anaesthesia and intensive care.