Elective Caesarean Section Research Articles

Comparison of lidocaine bicarbonate with fentanyl and chloroprocaine for epidural anesthesia during cesarean section: a randomized, controlled, double-blind clinical trial.

Chloroprocaine and lidocaine bicarbonate are commonly used for epidural anesthesia because of their rapid onset, particularly in the case of conversion from epidural labor analgesia to emergency cesarean section. However, it is unclear whether lidocaine bicarbonate combined with fentanyl has an advantage over chloroprocaine alone in emergency cesarean section. In this study, 102 women who underwent elective cesarean section received 15mL 3% chloroprocaine and 1mL saline (CP group) or 15mL 1.73% lidocaine bicarbonate and 1mL fentanyl 50μg (LF group) for epidural anesthesia. Nociceptive block level was assessed by pinprick and recorded every minute. The primary outcome was the onset time to T6 block. The median onset time to T6 analgesia was 10 [10, 10] min in the CP group and 10 [7, 10] min in the LF group (COX model for CP versus LF, HR 0.47, 95% CI 0.23-0.95, p = 0.035). The median onset time to T8 analgesia was 7 [5, 9] min in CP group and 5 [4, 7] min in LF group (COX model for CP versus LF, HR 0.61, 95% CI 0.39-0.95, p = 0.027). The proportion of hypotension episodes occurring before delivery in LF group was lower than that in CP group (p = 0.011). The incidence of block level ≥ T4 after supplemental dosing in the LF group was lower than that in the CP group (p = 0.031). Compared with 3% chloroprocaine, 1.73% lidocaine bicarbonate combined with fentanyl 50μg has a slightly faster onset time and less hypotension in epidural anesthesia for cesarean section. Clinical Trial Registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn/index.html, identifier ChiCTR2200056180.

First reported case of Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis in pregnancy in Sri Lanka

Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM) complicating pregnancy is a rare occurrence, posing challenges to the management due to maternal and fetal risks including fetal loss, fetal anomalies, intrauterine fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preterm labour. We report a case of a 21-year-old primiparous woman who was diagnosed with ADEM during the second trimester. She was treated with high dose intravenous (IV) steroids as well as IV immunoglobulin. She made complete neurological recovery within two months, but there were fetal complications including oligohydramnios, intrauterine growth restriction and low birth weight. The baby was delivered via elective caesarean section due to suspicious cardiotocograph and abnormal fetal doppler studies indicative of compromised fetal circulation. The baby was given special baby care unit (SBCU) care. However, both the mother and baby were safely discharged following six days of special neonatal care. This is the first reported case of ADEM in pregnancy in Sri Lanka, and highlights the challenges in management.

Peripartum heart failure in Finland: A population-based record linkage study.

Heart failure in late pregnancy and the postpartum period (HFPP) is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition, with peripartum cardiomyopathy (PPCM) being the most common subtype. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the prevalence of HFPP in the Finnish population and identify the underlying risk factors associated with its occurrence. We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from the Finnish Medical Birth Register and the Finnish Care Register for Health Care, covering 1996 to 2021. The dataset comprised 1387457 deliveries. HFPP cases were identified based on specific ICD-10 codes. To ensure the accuracy of our findings, we excluded cases with pre-existing cardiomyopathies and other significant cardiac diseases diagnosed before pregnancy. We employed logistic regression models to evaluate the associations between maternal factors and the incidence of HFPP. We identified 159 cases of HFPP, resulting in an incidence rate of 11.5 per 100000 deliveries. This incidence is comparable with rates reported in other Scandinavian countries and lower than those observed in Germany. Consistent with findings from European cohorts, our study confirmed that pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders, particularly preeclampsia, as well as complications such as preterm delivery, twin pregnancy and elective caesarean section, are substantial risk factors for HFPP. These results support previous research linking angiogenic imbalance to the pathogenesis of PPCM. Significant risk factors for HFPP included maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index ≥35 [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.04, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.28-3.25, P=0.003], history of maternal hypertensive disorder (aOR 2.44, 95% CI 1.22-4.88, P=0.012), gestational hypertension without significant proteinuria (aOR 2.14, 95% CI 1.27-3.61, P=0.004), preeclampsia (aOR 2.43, 95% CI 1.39-4.23, P=0.002), type 1 or type 2 diabetes (aOR 3.27, 95% CI 1.66-6.45, P<0.001) and twin pregnancy (aOR 2.74, 95% CI 1.37-5.49, P=0.005). Additionally, extensive prepartum [odds ratio (OR) 2.86, 95% CI 1.18-6.98, P=0.018] and postpartum blood loss (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.44-5.02, P=0.001) and maternal mental disorders (OR 7.39, 95% CI 4.10-13.31, P<0.001) were significantly more common among HFPP patients. The incidence of HFPP among women in Finland from 1996 to 2021 was low. HFPP exhibited a strong association with several risk factors, including preeclampsia, obesity, preterm delivery, twin pregnancy, elective caesarean section, multifoetal births, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, significant prepartum and postpartum blood loss and maternal mental health disorders. These findings underscore the importance of targeted interventions and careful monitoring in high-risk groups to mitigate the impact of HFPP on maternal health.

Role and efficacy of vasopressors in post-spinal hypotension in cesarean section. Is norepinephrine a newer choice?

In elective cesarean section, spinal anesthesia-related hypotension is routinely prevented or treated with fluids and vasopressors. From the use of fluid preloading to co-loading and different vasopressors, Phenylephrine remains the vasopressor of choice in the management of hypotension during cesarean section under spinal anesthesia for a long time. However, in recent studies, Norepinephrine has also been found as effective as phenylephrine but its routine use has not been recommended till now for the same as a vasopressor agent, and among all the vasopressors, phenylephrine has emerged as the recommended one. Phenylephrine is chosen as a vasopressor over mephenteramine, metaraminol, and ephedrine due to the lack of conclusive evidence about the clinical benefits of one over the other, especially in emergency and high-risk Cesarean sections, and is determined by indirect evidence on fetal acid-base status. Norepinephrine is preferable to phenylephrine, according to recent studies, the present recommendations are mostly based on studies done in elective Cesarean sections. Further studies are warranted in elective, emergency, and high-risk Cesarean sections to use phenylephrine over other vasopressors.

Transverse ultrasound scanning of lumbar-epidural depth and its co-relation with conventional method: A prospective observational study in obese Indian parturients

Pre-procedural ultrasound (US) imaging as a tool of determining the proper insertion site and assessing lumbar-epidural depth in obese Indian parturients. The current study’s goal was to assess the epidural depth space in obese Indian parturients by ultrasound imaging with conventional technique and also to assess whether if it decreases the failure rate and number of attempts. Twenty-five obese parturients with a BMI of more than 30 kg/m who were scheduled for elective lower segment caesarean sections under lumbar epidural anesthesia and were classified as American Society of Anaesthesiology grade I &amp; II were included. Using a curvilinear US probe (frequency 2–5 MHz), ultrasound depth-UD (lumbar epidural) was recorded in the transverse axial plane at the L3–L4 and L4–L5 intervertebral regions. Afterwards, the needle depth (ND) was monitored using a sterile linear scale during the epidural administration process using the traditional loss of resistance (LOR) approach. Any modifications to the intervertebral spacing, needle reorientation, or the quantity of tries were recorded. The results showed that UD and ND were, respectively, 4.6140 ± 0.252 cm (range 4.20–5.30 cm) and 4.720 ± 0.271 cm (range 4.2–5.5 cm). Pearson's correlation coefficient (r) for UD and ND was 0.953 (95% confidence interval: 0.8948–0.9793, r = 0.908, P &amp;#60; 0.001), and the 95% limits of agreement were found to be 0.266 to 0.546 cm using Bland-Altman analysis. Of all the subjects, 92% needed only one try to put the epidural, whereas 8% needed two. The current study demonstrates a significant association of ultrasound (UD) and needle depth (ND) in obese pregnant females (BMI &amp;#62;30 kg/m). For lumbar epidurals, a preprocedural US scan in the transverse-axial plane provides a precise needle entry site with a high success rate.

A comparative evaluation of dexamethasone and MgSO4 as an adjuvant to ropivacaine in transversus abdominis plane block for post operative analgesia in patients undergoing elective cesarean section, a triple blinded randomised controlled trial

: In regional blocks, dexamethasone and magnesium sulphate (MgSO4) have been used as an adjunct to local anesthesia. But more research needs to be done on each one's effectiveness. This study aims to assess the efficacy of dexamethasone 4mg and MgSO4 150mg as an adjunct to ropivacaine 0.375% in transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block for postoperative analgesia in patients undergoing cesarean section under subarachnoid block (SAB).: Ninety patients undergoing cesarean section under SAB belonging to American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status I or II, were recruited and randomised in three groups. Each group comprised of 30 patients. Group RS received 20ml 0.375% ropivacaine with 2 ml normal saline, Group RD received 20ml 0.375% ropivacaine with 4 mg dexamethasone and Group RM received 20ml 0.375% ropivacaine with 150 mg MgSO4.Time to first analgesic request, VAS score at rest and movement, patient satisfaction score, hemodynamic parameters and side effects were recorded in each group post-TAP block for 24 hours. Time to first analgesic request was significantly longer in group RD (814.0± 277.3 min) compared to group RM (606.5 ± 279.9 min) and group RS (545.5 ± 254.3 min) (p = 0.001). The mean value of tramadol requirement was statistically higher in Group RS compared to Group RD and Group RM (p&amp;#60;0.001). The mean differences in VAS score at rest and movement at 6 &amp; 8 h was significantly lower in dexamethasone and MgSO4 compared to control group p=0.001. The addition of dexamethasone to ropivacaine in TAP block significantly prolonged the duration of analgesia, reducing the need for systemic analgesia with minimal side effects.

The Causes of Intraoperative Pain among Elective Caesarean Section Patients under Sub-Arachnoid Block at the Tamale Teaching Hospital

Background: Intraoperative pain is a possible complication of neuraxial anaesthesia for caesarean delivery. Possible causes of intraoperative pain following caesarean section under spinal anaesthesia have been proposed. The potential consequences include inadequate anaesthesia, nerve injury during needle insertion, manipulation of internal organs during surgery, and psychological factors such as anxiety and fear. This study was conducted to assess the causes of intraoperative pain among patients undergoing elective caesarean section under sub-arachnoid block at the Tamale Teaching Hospital. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional research design was employed in this study. A total of 55 women who have had elective caesarean section under sub-arachnoid block were selected for the study. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed with the SPSS. Results: Findings from the study showed a high incidence of intraoperative pain among women during elective caesarean section under sub-arachnoid block (96.4%). These were mainly sharp and aching pain. However, the levels of the pain experienced intraoperative were mild (52.7%) and moderate (43.6%). Increased length of time spent during surgery and ineffectiveness of medications/ injections given to prevent pain were the main factors contributing to intraoperative pain among patients during elective caesarean section under sub-arachnoid block. Conclusions: The study found a substantial incidence of intraoperative pain during caesarean delivery. To mitigate intraoperative discomfort and enhance the overall surgical experience for patients having elective CS, it is crucial to address these issues by employing optimised anaesthesia techniques, implementing effective pain management measures, and utilising preoperative psychological therapies.

Post-dural Puncture Headache: A Comparative Study Using 25 G Quincke's Needle in Midline and Paramedian Approaches in Patients Undergoing Elective Cesarean Section.

Background and objectives Spinal anesthesia (SA) has become a preferred anesthetic technique for elective cesarean sections due to its rapid onset, profound sensory and motor blockade, and minimal impact on the newborn. It lowers the risk of development of thrombus in the veins and pulmonary vessels and permits early ambulation. The most popular technique used to reach the subarachnoid space is the midline technique, though it can be challenging to use in some cases, including those involving elderly patients with degenerative abnormalities in the vertebral column, patients who are unable to flex the vertebral column, noncooperative patients, and hyperestheticpatients. The paramedian technique resolves the challenges posed by the midline technique. It is also relatively easy to carry out. Based on the midline technique's inadequacies, we hypothesized that the paramedian method of SA would be less complicated than the midline approach, with a relatively low occurrence of post-dural puncture headaches (PDPH). Methodology Using the midline and paramedian approaches during cesarean surgeries, we performed an observational descriptive longitudinal study to assess the occurrence and magnitude of PDPH. During an elective cesarean delivery, the seated patient received 2.0-2.5 ml of hyperbaric bupivacaine using the midline or paramedian approaches and a 25 G Quincke's needle at the L3-L4 level. Eighty-four pregnant females with American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) physical status II, aged 18 to 35 (n = 42 in each group), were included in this research. The occurrence and severity of PDPH were compared among thegroups during a period of five days. Result In comparison to the paramedian group (7.1%), the midline group had a higher incidence of PDPH (14.3%). There was a significant correlation between the technique and the occurrence of PDPH (p = 0.041). The visual analogue scale (VAS) was employed to quantify pain five days after surgery. Pain levels in Group B (paramedian) were consistently less than those in Group A (midline). On day 1, Group B had a mean score of 0.49 ± 1.16 (p = 0.030) compared to Group A's mean VAS score of 1.27 ± 1.95. Day 5 (p = 0.032): Because this tendency persisted through day 5, the p-values for days 2, 3, 4, and 5 remained significant. These findings suggest that the midline technique is linked to a higher occurrence and magnitude of PDPHthan the paramedian approach. Conclusion Employing a paramedian technique has been associated with a noteworthy decline in the frequency of PDPH and a decrease in the need for additional analgesics, which could lead to a less severe case of PDPH. The paramedian approachneeded fewer attempts and needle passes, which leads to a lower incidence of headache, backache, and injection site pain and better patient satisfaction.

Comparative evaluation of intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine alone versus combined with dexmedetomidine for cesarean sections

Background &amp; Objective: This study examined the use of dexmedetomidine 5 μg as an adjuvant to 10 mg of intrathecal hyperbaric 0.5% bupivacaine in elective cesarean sections and aimed to assess dexmedetomidine’s impact on block characteristics and post-operative pain management. As spinal anesthesia is commonly employed for cesarean deliveries, the study seeks to determine whether the addition of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant can prolong the duration and enhance the quality of the block, leading to improved post-operative pain relief. Methodology: This randomized controlled trial included 100 parturients undergoing elective cesarean section over a period of six months. Participants were allocated to either Group B or Group D using a non-random consecutive sampling technique. In Group D, 2 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine mixed with 0.05 mL of dexmedetomidine (5µg) was injected intrathecally, while Group B received 2 mL of 0.5% hyperbaric bupivacaine along with an equivalent volume of saline. Sensory and motor block assessments were conducted prior to the start of surgery. Post-operatively, the duration of motor block and post-operative pain relief were assessed. Results: The addition of dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to intrathecal bupivacaine resulted in significant reductions in the onset time of sensory block (4.22 ± 0.79 min vs 5.66 ± 1.21 min) and motor block (4.20 ± 0.81min vs 6.32 ± 1.20 min) (P &lt; 0.001). Furthermore, the duration of motor block was longer in the dexmedetomidine + bupivacaine group compared to the bupivacaine alone group (7.32 ± 0.95 h vs 4.38 ± 1.27 h). Additionally, patients who received intrathecal dexmedetomidine as an adjuvant to bupivacaine experienced significantly longer durations of post-operative analgesia (7.32 ± 0.95 h) as compared to the bupivacaine alone group (4.38 ± 1.27 h) (P &lt; 0.001). Conclusion: Dexmedetomidine as an intrathecal adjuvant to hyperbaric bupivacaine extends the duration of analgesia and motor block, providing prolonged pain relief. Additionally, it exhibits an early onset of sensory and motor block, ensuring prompt pain relief and rapid anesthesia onset. Clinical Trial Registration: [www.clinicaltrials.gov], identifier: ID NCT05469529 Abbreviations: CS - cesarean section; OT - Operation Theater; SA - Spinal anesthesia; VAS - visual analogue scale; Keywords: cesarean section, dexmedetomidine, bupivacaine, spinal anesthesia Citation: Qureshi RA, Jadoon H, Shabbir M. Comparative evaluation of intrathecal hyperbaric bupivacaine alone versus combined with dexmedetomidine for cesarean sections. Anaesth. pain intensive care 2024;28(5):866−870. DOI: 10.35975/apic.v28i5.2558 Received: December 03, 2023; Reviewed: December 15, 2023; Accepted: August 16, 2024

Optimal approach to ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum blocks for postoperative analgesia in elective caesarean section: protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis

IntroductionUltrasound-guided quadratus lumborum blocks are commonly used for postoperative analgesia during caesarean section. Ultrasound-guided quadratus lumborum blocks can be performed through four approaches, including lateral, posterior, anterior, and intramuscular quadratus...

Enhanced recovery after surgery in elective cesarean section patients with gestational diabetes mellitus does not lead to glucose-related maternal and neonatal complications.

For elective cesarean section patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), there is a lack of evidence-based research on the use of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS). This study aims to compare the ERAS after-surgery protocol and traditional perioperative management. In this retrospective cohort study, singleton pregnancies with good glucose control GDM, delivered by elective cesarean sections under intravertebral anesthesia at least 37 weeks from January 1 to December 31, 2022, were collected at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. We divided all enrolled pregnant women and newborns into an ERAS group and a control group (the traditional perioperative management group) based on their adherence to the ERAS protocol. The primary outcome was the preoperative blood glucose level, with an increase of more than 1 mmol/L indicating clinical significance when compared to the control group. The secondary outcome was centered around an adverse composite outcome that affected both mothers and newborns. We collected a total of 161 cases, with 82 in the ERAS group and 79 in the control group. Although the mean preoperative blood glucose level in the ERAS group was significantly higher than in the control group (5.01 ± 1.06 mmol/L vs. 4.45 ± 0.90 mmol/L, p<0.001), the primary outcome revealed that the mean glycemic difference between the groups was 0.47 mmol/L (95% CI 0.15-0.80 mmol/L), which was below the clinically significant difference of 1 mmol/L. For the secondary outcomes, the ERAS group had an 86% lower risk of a composite adverse outcome compared to the control group. This included a 73% lower risk of perioperative maternal hypoglycemia and a 92% lower rate of neonatal hypoglycemia, all adjusted by age, hypertensive disorder of pregnancy, BMI, gestational weeks, primigravidae, primary pregnancy, GDM, surgery duration, and fasting glucose. Implementing a low-dose carbohydrate ERAS in pregnant women with GDM prior to elective cesarean section, compared to traditional perioperative management, does not lead to clinically significant maternal glucose increases and thus glucose-related maternal or neonatal perioperative complications.

The value of routine hemoglobin level evaluation following elective cesarean section: Is it worthwhile?

The aim of this study was to assess the usefulness of routine hemoglobin testing following elective and urgent cesarean section (CS) in patients without primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). This retrospective cohort study included women who underwent vaginal delivery (VD), elective CS, and urgent CS at Carmel Medical Center from 2015 to 2020. Data were extracted from the obstetric database, excluding deliveries with PPH. Demographic and obstetric variables were recorded. Primary outcomes were the need for packed red blood cell transfusion. A total of 19 446 women were included, with five (0.3%) requiring a blood transfusion in the elective CS group, 27 (0.17%) in the VD group, and eight (0.4%) in the urgent CS group. Urgent CS was associated with a higher risk of blood transfusion, but there was no significant difference between elective CS and VD. Elective CS showed the lowest rates of post-delivery hemoglobin below 7 g/dL 1 (0.1%) compared to VD 16 (0.6%) and urgent CS 13 (0.7%). Routine postoperative hemoglobin testing following elective CS in asymptomatic patients without PPH appears unnecessary. This study supports reconsidering routine hemoglobin testing following elective CS, aligning with the goal of optimizing resource utilization while maintaining patient quality.

Comparison of ultrasonic diagnosis of cesarean scar defects at different timepoints following cesarean section.

Cesarean scar defect (CSD) is a potential complication following cesarean section (CS), which has significant clinical implications, and is usually clinically diagnosed by ultrasound. However, the optimal timing for ultrasound diagnosis of CSD after CS has not been well established. This study aimed to evaluate the appropriate time for the diagnosis of CSD after CS by ultrasonography. The prospective study involved 120 women who delivered by elective CS with single birth and term birth from January 2021 to June 2022. Sample enrollment was consecutive in the study. Each woman underwent 3 ultrasound examinations for CSD diagnosis at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postpartum according to a modified Delphi method. The ultrasound indicators about the incision situation were recorded and statistically analyzed. Paired 4-fold table chi-square test was used to evaluate the consistency between the 3 diagnoses. The diagnostic sensitivity and specificity were calculated using a 4-cell table. According to whether the diagnosis was consistent to that at 6 or 12 months, the 120 cases at week 6 were separated into a consistent group and inconsistent group for statistical evaluation of the ultrasound indicators. Additionally, the menstrual duration of the included women was also recorded to analyze the correlation to ultrasound indicators of CSD at 6 months postpartum using the Person correlation coefficient. The included 120 women were divided into normal (3-7 days, n=52) and prolonged menstrual period (>7 days, n=68) groups. The 2 groups had no statistical differences in age, body mass index (BMI), gestational week of delivery, assisted reproduction rates, or postpartum complications. Among the 120 women, 100, 66, and 61 women were diagnosed as CSD at 6 weeks, 6 months, and 12 months postpartum, respectively. The results indicated that the diagnostic results of 6 weeks were inconsistent with those of 6 or 12 months postpartum, but the last 2 diagnostic results were consistent. The diagnostic sensitivity of 6 months was 100% and the specificity was 91.53% [95% confidence interval (CI): 85.84-95.26%]. Further, significant differences were found in depth of the defect, and the thickness (T) and ratio of residual muscle between the inconsistent group and the consistent group at 6 weeks. The patients could be considered self-recovered from CSD at 6 months when the defect depth was equal to or less than 4.04±0.82 mm at 6 weeks after CS. Additionally, in the CSD group at 6 months, the length (r=0.828, P<0.001), depth (r=0.784, P<0.001), width (r=0.787, P<0.001) of the defect, the T (r=0.831, P<0.001) and ratio of residual muscle (r=0.821, P<0.001) were strongly correlated with menstrual duration. CSD evaluation at week 6 after CS may cause misdiagnosis or overdiagnosis. The diagnosis of CSD was suggested to be made following 6 months or longer postpartum.

Effect of maternal age on the rate, type, and indications of caesarean section deliveries: A study from a maternity hospital of Peshawar, Pakistan.

Objective: To evaluate the effect of maternal age on the rate, type (elective or emergency) and indications of caesarean section. Study Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: Government Maternity Hospital, Peshawar. Period: January 2020 to January 2021. Methods: The normal labor register, which contains data of each, and every delivery conducted in the mentioned hospital, was used to find out total number of caesarean sections during the period of study. All those patients were included in the study who underwent caesarean section during the study period. Total number of caesarean sections was 603 after excluding the patients with ruptured uterus, multiple pregnancies, ectopic pregnancy and cephalopelvic disproportion. Maternal age was noted and compared with the rate of caesarean section. Maternal age was further categorized as &lt;20; 21-25; 26-30; 31-35; 36-40 and &gt;40 years. Results: Among 603 patients, the majority of patients who underwent caesarean section were in 26-30 years age group followed by 21-25 years. When the indications for caesarean section were compared based on the already defined categories of age, a significant difference (p&lt;0.001) was found. Previous caesarean sections were found to be the topmost cause in all age groups while the second common cause was malpresentation. Elective caesarean section rate was found to be significantly higher than emergency ones with p-value&lt;0.001. Conclusion: Our results revealed a greater number of caesarean sections in the younger age group; therefore, it can be concluded that maternal age has no direct effects on the rate, type, and indications of caesarean section.

Effectivity of Walking Epidural Analgesia in Normal Labor to Reduce Labor Pain and Improve Neonatal Outcome

Background: In Indonesia itself, only 15% of 2,700 labor women felt the pain was tolerable, meanwhile 85% said the pain was moderate until unbearable. Usage of epidural anaesthesia for pain relief in labor is common but controversies still persist about its effect and side effect on labor process. Neuraxial block especially epidural also not yet well known in Indonesia.Objective: This research aims to study maternal visual analogue scale (VAS) score changes before and after walking epidural anesthesia (WELA) and fetal outcome after birth. Methods: This research is an experimental design with one pre-test and post-test group. Data was taken from Unggul Karsa Medika Hospital and Permata Hati Clinic medical records from 2017 until 2022. Ethical approval was approved by Unggul Karsa Medika Hospital Ethical Committee (003/KEP-LIT/III/2023). After that all of 450 patients’ data was then analyzed by Wilcoxon with IBM® SPSS Statistic 26th with α=0.05.Result: Statistical analysis shows there was significant decrease of pain severity with initial VAS 7.58 to 3.37 after WELA procedure (p 0.0001). APGAR scores of all the foetus were normal with no asphyxia present.Conclusion: Our findings demonstrate the benefit of WELA for both of mother and fetus. was significantly decrease in VAS score during labor. Fetal outcome was also notably great after labour process and usage of epidural could decrease the risk of fetal acidemia and distress which reduce caesarean section rate. Usage of WELA in Indonesia could be encourage and recommended as an alternative to elective caesarean section.

Biochemical analysis of catecholamine and cortisol for the evaluation of the fetal distress in third trimester stillbirths

BackgroundStress hormones like catecholamine and cortisol are thought to reflect the magnitude of physical stress in adults and were studied in relationship to the cause of death and agony time. Intrauterine distress, intrapartum events, and modes of delivery can affect the fetal endocrine stress response, as reflected by biochemical analyses. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the role of catecholamines and cortisol as markers of ante-mortem fetal distress. The role of cortisol as a marker of circadian timing of delivery was also assessed.MethodsA 2-year prospective cohort-comparison inclusion of stillbirths and newborns took place with collection of antemortem data, labor parameters, neonatal outcome, post-mortem data and blood samples. Stillbirths were classified as acute or chronic on the basis of a multidisciplinary evaluation. Heart blood of stillbirths and cord blood of newborns were analyzed by high pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) for adrenaline and noradrenaline and by immunoassay for cortisol determination.ResultsFifteen stillbirths and 46 newborns, as a comparison group, delivered by spontaneous vaginal birth, elective, and emergency cesarean sections were included. Stillbirths’ main cause of death was cord thrombosis. Levels of adrenaline and noradrenaline (median: 14,188 pg/ml and 230.5 pg/ml, respectively) were significantly higher (p < 0.001) in stillbirths than in newborns and were also higher in acute compared to chronic distress. Cortisol levels were significantly higher (p < 0.05) in spontaneous vaginal delivery (median: 18.2 μg/dl) compared to elective cesarean sections (median: 3.8 μg/dl). No difference in cortisol concentrations was detected between newborns delivered at morning and at afternoon/evening.ConclusionOur results suggest that the biochemical measurement of adrenaline and noradrenaline levels might reflect a marked physical stress response during the process of death in stillbirths. On the contrary, the elevation of cortisol levels could mirror the elevation in maternal cortisol level during vaginal delivery. For the post-mortem evaluation of stillbirths, the analysis of CA levels could provide additional data on the duration of distress, useful to integrate the forensic diagnosis.

Exploring the Analgesic Efficacy and mechanisms of low-dose esketamine in pregnant women undergoing cesarean section: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundPostoperative pain is a prevalent concern following a cesarean section. This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of low-dose (0.1 mg/kg) esketamine on postoperative pain management in pregnant women undergoing cesarean sections, specifically in cases where both patient-controlled intravenous analgesia (PCIA) and patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) were employed. MethodsPregnant women intending to undergo elective cesarean section were divided into four subgroups based on the intravenous administration of esketamine and the specific analgesia methods employed: E1 (0.1 mg/kg esketamine + PCEA), E2 (0.1 mg/kg esketamine + PCIA), C1 (saline + PCEA), and C2 (saline + PCIA). The primary outcome was the maximum pain score within 24 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes included the pressure pain threshold and tolerance at 30 min and 24 h postoperatively, along with the inflammation and adverse event index scores. ResultsA total of 118 pregnant women were assigned to the four groups: E1 (n = 29), E2 (n = 29), C1 (n = 30), and C2 (n = 30). Compared with those in the control groups (C1 + C2), the maximum postoperative pain scores within 24 h in the esketamine groups (E1 + E2) were significantly lower (4 [2–5] vs. 4 [4–6], P = 0.002), and the E1 group exhibited superior analgesic effects compared with other groups. No significant differences were observed in postoperative hyperalgesia or inflammation across the four groups. Notably, esketamine combined with PCIA increased the incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting (7 [25 %] vs. 0 [0 %]; P = 0.005). ConclusionThe administration of low-dose (0.1 mg/kg) esketamine effectively alleviates pain following cesarean section, and the analgesic effect is notably enhanced in combination with PCEA. Importantly, these effects do not appear to be mediated through anti-inflammatory mechanisms or the inhibition of hyperalgesia. Clinical trial registration numberNCT05414006.

RETRACTED ARTICLE: Early or delayed cord clamping during transition of term newborns: does it make any difference in cerebral tissue oxygenation?

BackgroundAccording to the World Health Organization’s recommendation,delayed cord clamping in term newborns can have various benefits. Cochranemetaanalyses reported no differences for mortality and early neonatal morbidityalthough a limited number of studies investigated long-term neurodevelopmentaloutcomes. The aim of our study is to compare the postnatal cerebral tissueoxygenation values in babies with early versus delayed cord clamping born afterelective cesarean section.MethodsIn this study, a total of 80 term newborns delivered by electivecesarean section were included. Infants were randomly grouped as early (clampedwithin 15 s, n:40) and delayed cord clamping (at the 60th second, n:40)groups. Peripheral arterial oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate weremeasured by pulse oximetry while regional oxygen saturation of the brain (rSO2)was measured with near-infrared spectrometer. Fractional tissue oxygenextraction (FTOE) was calculated for every minute between the 3rd and 15thminute after birth. (FTOE = pulse oximetry value-rSO2/pulseoximetry value). The measurements were compared for both groups.ResultsThe demographical characteristics, SpO2 levels (except postnatal6th, 8th, and 14th minutes favoring DCC p < 0.05), heart rates and umbilical cord bloodgas values were not significantly different between the groups (p > 0.05). rSO2 values weresignificantly higher while FTOE values were significantly lower for every minutebetween the 3rd and 15th minutes after birth in the delayed cord clamping group(p < 0.05).ConclusionOur study revealed a significant increase in cerebral rsO2 valuesand a decrease in FTOE values in the delayed cord clamping (DCC) group,indicating a positive impact on cerebral oxygenation and hemodynamics.Furthermore, the DCC group exhibited a higher proportion of infants withcerebral rSO2 levels above the 90th percentile. This higher proportion, alongwith a lower of those with such parameter below the 10th percentile, suggestthat DCC may lead to the targeted/optimal cerebral oxygenetaion of these babies.As a result, we recommend measuring cerebral oxygenation, in addition toperipheral SpO2, for infants experiencing perinatal hypoxia and receivingsupplemental oxygen.

Comparative Study of Ropivacaine and Ropivacaine With Dexmedetomidine in Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) Block for Post-operative Analgesia in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Sections.

Background Adequate post-operative analgesia in the obstetric patient is necessary to facilitate breastfeeding and the care of the newborn. Considering the limitations of intravenous analgesic options such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and opioids, other alternatives have been tried for offering better analgesia with fewer potential side effects. Transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block is one such option that has been tried with various local anesthetic drugs, either alone or in combination with other adjuvants. The addition of dexmedetomidine to bupivacaine in TAP block has been shown to prolong the duration of post-operative analgesia when compared to local anesthetic alone. This study was conducted to determine the efficacy of dexmedetomidine, as an adjuvant to ropivacaine, when administered in TAP block in patients undergoing cesarean section. Methodology The study was a prospective, randomized, parallel assignment, triple-blinded controlled trial. Hundred patients posted for elective lower segment cesarean section, fulfilling the inclusion criteria, were randomly divided into two equal groups, group R and group RD, comprising 50 patients each. Patients in group R were administered bilateral TAP block by landmark technique using ropivacaine alone, whereas patients in group RD were administered TAP block with dexmedetomidine 1 micrograms/kg, in addition to a similar dose of ropivacaine. Mean arterial pressure (MAP), heart rate (HR), visual analog scale (VAS)-R (pain score on VAS scale at rest), VAS-C (pain score on VAS scale on coughing), nausea and vomiting, and Ramsay sedation score were recorded on admission to post-operative care unit (PACU), and at first, fourth, eighth, 12th, 18th,and 24th hours post-operatively. Rescue analgesia was provided with intravenous morphine. Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction Score (SAPS) was noted on a five-point scale after 24 hours based on patient satisfaction regarding the quality of post-operative analgesia. Results While there was no significant difference between groups R and RD with respect to VAS-C and VAS-R immediately after shifting and at the first, fourth, and eighth hours, a significant difference was observed at the 12th and 18th hours post-operatively. After 24 hours, no significant difference was observed between groups R and RD with respect to VAS-C and VAS-R. While 50% of patients needed rescue analgesia in group R, only 28% of patients needed rescue analgesia in group RD. There was significantly better patient satisfaction measured by the Short Assessment of Patient Satisfaction Score (SAPS) with respect to the quality of analgesia in patients in group RD as compared to those in group R. Conclusions The addition of dexmedetomidine to ropivacaine increased the duration of post-operative analgesia up to 18 hours post-operatively in cases of elective lower segment cesarean section. Also, the quality of post-operative analgesia is better in such patients, as shown by a significant difference in patient satisfaction scores between the two groups.

Prevalence of delivery mode in an Italian nationwide cohort with celiac disease: a SIGENP multicenter retrospective study (the CD-deliver-IT)

BackgroundStudies have indicated an association between cesarean section (CS), especially elective CS, and an increased risk of celiac disease (CD), but the conclusions of other studies are contradictory. The primary aim of this study (CD-deliver-IT) was to evaluate the rate of CS in a large population of CD patients throughout Italy. MethodsThis national multicenter retrospective study was conducted between December 2020 and November 2021. The coordinating center was the Pediatric Gastroenterology and Liver Unit of Policlinico Umberto I, Sapienza, University of Rome, Lazio, Italy. Eleven other referral centers for CD have participated to the study. Each center has collected data on mode of delivery and perinatal period of all CD patients referring to the center in the last 40 years.ResultsOut of 3,259 CD patients recruited in different Italian regions, data on the mode of delivery were obtained from 3,234. One thousand nine hundred forty-one (1,941) patients (60%) were born vaginally and 1,293 (40%) by CS (8.3% emergency CS, 30.1% planned CS, 1.5% undefined CS). A statistically significant difference was found comparing median age at time of CD diagnosis of patients who were born by emergency CS (4 years, CI 95% 3.40–4.59), planned CS (7 years, CI 95% 6.02–7.97) and vaginal delivery (6 years, CI 95% 5.62–6.37) (log rank p < 0.0001).ConclusionsThis is the first Italian multicenter study aiming at evaluating the rate of CS in a large population of CD patients through Italy. The CS rate found in our CD patients is higher than rates reported in the general population over the last 40 years and emergency CS seems to be associated with an earlier onset of CD compared to vaginal delivery or elective CS in our large nationwide retrospective cohort. This suggests a potential role of the mode of delivery on the risk of developing CD and on its age of onset, but it is more likely that it works in concert with other perinatal factors. Further prospective studies on other perinatal factors potentially influencing gut microbiota are awaited in order to address heavy conflicting evidence reaming in this research field.