Haemorrhage from a partially detached extrauterine placenta can be
catastrophic. We describe a novel surgical technique using a Foley's
catheter tourniquet, applied between the partially detached and attached
portions of the placenta of an irremovable placenta to control blood
loss. It may be left in situ and removed at repeat laparotomy. The
catheter tourniquet has equally shown utility with a removable placenta.
Applied as a temporary tourniquet around structures surrounding the
implantation site, the technique enables placenta removal with minimal
haemorrhage. We report use of this surgical technique with good
outcomes.