Rates Of Maternal Complications Research Articles

Obstetric Medicine: the protocol for a prospective three-dimensional cohort study to assess maternity care for women with pre-existing conditions (ForMaT).

Pregnancies in women with pre-existing medical conditions are on the rise. These pregnancies are characterized by an increased rate of maternal and perinatal complications, which can result in higher health care expenditures and altered pregnancy experiences. The purpose of this study is to integrally analyze maternity care for women with pre-existing conditions in the framework of a risk-adapted, interdisciplinary care by recording three substantial parts of maternity care: (1) maternal and perinatal outcome; (2) hospital costs and reimbursements covering the period from preconception counseling or initial antenatal visit to discharge after birth; and (3) women's experience of reproductive choice and becoming a mother in the presence of a pre-existing condition. In this observational, prospective, longitudinal, and monocentric cohort study, we aim to include a total of 1,500 women over a recruitment period of 15 months. Women registering for care at the Department of Obstetrics and Prenatal Medicine, University Hospital Bonn, Germany, are allocated to three groups based on their health and risk status: women with pre-existing conditions, as well as healthy women with obstetric risk factor and healthy women with a low-risk pregnancy. Participants are observed from time of initial consultation until discharge after birth. Analysis focuses on (1) maternal and perinatal outcome, especially rate of severe maternal and neonatal morbidity; (2) costs and reimbursements; and (3) surveys to capture of women's experience and health-related quality of life during the time of reproductive choice, pregnancy, and childbirth in the presence of pre-existing medical conditions. With its complex three-dimensional design, the ForMaT-Trial is aiming to provide a comprehensive analysis of pregnancy and childbirth in women with pre-existing conditions. The results may serve as a basis for counseling and care of these women. By analyzing costs of specialized care, data for discussing reimbursement are generated. Lastly, our results may increase awareness for the perception of reproductive choice, pregnancy and motherhood in this continuously rising population.Clinical trial registration: German Clinical Trials Register, DRKS00030061, October 28, 2022.

Gestational diabetes mellitus: relationship of adverse outcomes with severity of disease

Aims To derive accurate estimates of risk of maternal and neonatal complications in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to investigate the association of the effect size of these risks on subgroups of GDM managed with dietary modification, metformin and insulin therapy. Methods This was a large retrospective cohort study undertaken at a large maternity unit in the United Kingdom between January 2010 and June 2022. We included singleton pregnancies that booked at our unit at 11-13 weeks’ gestation. The rates of maternal and neonatal complications in pregnancies with GDM that were managed by a multidisciplinary team (MDT) in the specialist high-risk clinic were compared to those in non-diabetic pregnancies. We stratified pregnancies with GDM into those that were managed with diet, metformin and insulin to pregnancies without diabetes. Logistic regression analysis was carried out to determine risks of pregnancy complications in pregnancies with GDM and its treatment subgroups. Risks were expressed as absolute risks (AR) and odds ratio (OR) (95% confidence intervals [CI]). Forest plots were used to graphically demonstrate risks. Results The study population included 51,211 singleton pregnancies including 2089 (4.1%) with GDM and 49,122 (95.9%) controls without diabetes. In pregnancies with GDM, there were 1247 (59.7%) pregnancies managed with diet, 451 (21.6%) with metformin and 391 (18.7%) who required insulin for maintaining euglycaemia. Pregnancies with GDM had higher maternal age, body mass index (BMI), higher rates of Afro-Caribbean and South Asian racial origin and higher rates of chronic hypertension. In pregnancies with GDM compared to non-diabetic controls, there was an increased rate of preterm delivery, delivery of LGA neonate, polyhydramnios, preeclampsia, need for IOL, elective and emergency CS and PPH whereas the rate of delivery of SGA neonates and likelihood of an unassisted vaginal delivery were lower. In pregnancies with GDM, there is significantly increased risk of maternal and neonatal complications in those that require insulin compared to those that are managed on dietary modification alone. Conclusions There is a linear association between the risk of adverse outcomes and the severity of GDM with those on insulin treatment demonstrating an increased association with complications compared to those that have milder disease requiring only dietary modification.

Retrospective Cohort Study Comparing the Clinical Profile and Outcomes of Critically Ill Pregnant Patients in Kuwait during the COVID-19 Pandemic Waves

Objectives: COVID-19 is an infectious disease caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus-2 (SARS-CoV-2 virus). This virus evolved into several variants, each with different severity. There are surges in the number of infected patients, commonly described as “waves.” In Kuwait, three waves occurred. Our study describes and compares the clinical presentation and outcomes of critically ill pregnant patients infected with different variants. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study in two intensive care units (ICU) dedicated to patients with COVID-19. The wave periods were retrieved from the Kuwait Ministry of Health. Results: The total number of ICU admissions during the study period was 74 patients. Most cases occurred during the third wave (n = 47/74, 63.5%). Most patients did not have comorbidities. The most common presenting symptoms were fever 62.2%, dyspnea 71.6%, and dry cough 74.3%. Low oxygen saturation 35.1% and maternal tachycardia 75.7% were observed in most patients. Cesarean section was the most common route of delivery, with maternal indication accounting for most cases 78.84%. Eight patients (13.69%) underwent dialysis, and thirty-one (41.9%) needed extracorporeal membrane oxygenation. Most patients required ventilatory support 66.21%. Almost all patients were unvaccinated 97.01%. Maternal mortality was mainly noted in the third wave (13.23%). Conclusions: In Kuwait, the number of admissions and the rate of maternal complications, morbidity, and mortality increased with successive waves.

Induction of labor with repeated prostaglandin administration after failure of dinoprostone vaginal insert: a retrospective study comparing dinoprostone and misoprostol.

Induction of labor in women with unfavorable cervix can be started with cervical ripening by dinoprostone vaginal insert. In cases of unsuccessful response, management is unclear: a possible option is a repeated induction with prostaglandins. The aim of this study was to assess the results of a second induction by either dinoprostone or misoprostol, comparing those treatments. A retrospective analysis was carried out on a cohort of 109 women with unsuccesful response to a first attempt of induction with dinoprostone vaginal insert, who required a second stimulation by either dinoprostone vaginal gel (56 patients) or oral misoprostol (53 patients). The outcomes assessed where the rates of active labor and vaginal delivery, and secondarily maternal and perinatal adverse events. Overall 70.6% of patients reached active labor and 62.4% had a vaginal delivery; the efficacy of the double induction was similar for dinoprostone vaginal gel and oral misoprostol, with active labor in 69.6% and 71.7% (P=0.83), and vaginal delivery in 62.5% and 62.3% of patients (P=0.99) respectively. The incidence of adverse events was low, with no perinatal complications and similar rates of maternal complications, notably major post-partum hemorrhage in 1.8% and 3.8% of patients (P=0.61) for dinoprostone and misoprostol respectively. Dinoprostone vaginal gel and oral misoprostol as a second cycle of induction appear to be both effective in achieving active labor and vaginal delivery after failure of dinoprostone vaginal insert, without a significant rate of adverse events.

Reproductive and obstetric outcomes in TESE–ICSI cycles: A comparison between obstructive and non‐obstructive azoospermia

AbstractPurposeComparison of intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles with testicular sperm extraction in obstructive azoospermia and non‐obstructive azoospermia are limited, and few studies have addressed obstetric and neonatal outcomes.DesignThis study analyzed couples who underwent testicular sperm extraction–intracytoplasmic sperm injection cycles for obstructive azoospermia and non‐obstructive azoospermia to determine whether impaired spermatogenesis in non‐obstructive azoospermia patients would lead to worse reproductive outcomes and higher rates of pregnancy complications and fetal anomalies. This study is a retrospective, single‐center analysis of all testicular sperm cycles performed between January 1, 2001 and December 31, 2020.ResultsA total of 392 couples were considered in the study, leading to 1066 induction cycles, 620 (58.2%) from patients with obstructive azoospermia and 446 (41.8%) from non‐obstructive azoospermia. The cumulative delivery rate did not significantly differ between the two groups (34% vs. 31%; p = 0.326). The miscarriage rate was similar between obstructive azoospermia and non‐obstructive azoospermia patients. Fertilization rate instead showed a statistically significant difference (obstructive azoospermia: 66.1 ± 25.7 vs. non‐obstructive azoospermia: 56.1 ± 27.0; p < 0.001). The overall maternal complication rate in the non‐obstructive azoospermia group was higher (10.7% vs. 18.4%; p = 0.035), but there was no statistical significance for each pathology. There was no statistical difference in gestational age between the two groups for both single and twin pregnancies. Seven cases of congenital defects occurred in the obstructive azoospermia group, while two cases occurred in the non‐obstructive azoospermia group.ConclusionsDespite impaired spermatogenesis in non‐obstructive azoospermia patients, there were no substantial differences in reproductive outcomes compared to patients with obstructive azoospermia, even in terms of obstetric safety and neonatal well‐being.

Unmet Needs of Immune Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura (iTTP)-Specific Pregnancy Counseling, Care and Outcomes in Women with Ittp

Unmet needs of iTTP-specific pregnancy counseling, care and outcomes in women with iTTP INTRODUCTION: Pregnancy is a known trigger for an initial episode or relapse of immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (iTTP) and outcomes of pregnancy in women with iTTP have historically been suboptimal with high rates of recurrent iTTP, fetal loss, preeclampsia and HELLP syndrome. More recent data suggest that prophylactic immunosuppression to normalize ADAMTS13 levels before conception, and ADAMTS13 monitoring and prophylactic steroids or plasma exchange during pregnancy can improve maternal and fetal outcomes. However, it is not clear whether women with iTTP are routinely counseled regarding these options. We conducted this study to understand the experiences of women with iTTP with reproductive healthcare, how iTTP has impacted their reproductive decisions, and outcomes of pregnancy. METHODS: We developed a web-based (RedCap) survey focused on the reproductive healthcare experiences of women with iTTP with in three major sections: (1) counseling and education around pregnancy that was provided to them, (2) the impact of iTTP on their reproductive decisions, and (3) outcomes of any pregnancies they had experienced. The survey was distributed through social media and email mailing lists of a patient advocacy organization and was kept open for one month (January 2023). Survey data were summarized using counts and percentages. The focus of the analysis was to identify gaps in patient education and care where efforts could be focused on educating clinicians or providing information to patients though patient advocacy groups. RESULTS: Seventy-five females with iTTP responded to the survey. The median age of the respondents was 44 years (range 23 - 65). Sixty-five (74.7%) identified as White, 13 (14.9%) as Black, 6 (6.9%) as Asian and 3 (3.4%) identified as other/prefer not to say. Nearly all (94.6%) were followed by a hematologist or hematologist-oncologist and 82.9% reported being monitored regularly for iTTP. Only 26.7% (20 of 75) reported that their doctor talked to them about measures that may help achieve a successful pregnancy. These included ADAMTS13 monitoring (n=15), plasma exchange treatments (n=10), rituximab (n=10), and aspirin (n=3) (options are not mutually exclusive so total is > 20). Moreover, 30.0% (21 of 70) reported that they were advised by their doctor to not get pregnant due to their iTTP. Some patients (36.0%) avoided pregnancy out of fear of the consequences of iTTP and 28.4% (21 of 74) responded that their iTTP diagnosis has affected their ability to get into a relationship, which impacts their quality of life (Figure 1). Fifty-three patients reported that they had had at least one pregnancy. Of these, 35 had pregnancies before iTTP diagnosis, 10 with the initial presentation of iTTP, and 8 women had a total of 11 pregnancies following the diagnosis of iTTP. Consistent with prior reports, there was a high rate of maternal and fetal complications in pregnancies that occurred in the setting of a first iTTP episode complicating pregnancy, or pregnancies after an iTTP diagnosis (Table 1). iTTP relapse occurred in 27.3% (3 of 11) pregnancies in women with prior iTTP. Fetal loss occurred in 30% of pregnancies with first TTP diagnosis and 9% of pregnancies after iTTP. In both groups, approximately 20% were small for gestational age. Preeclampsia or HELLP syndrome occurred in 50% and 18.2% of pregnancies complicated by initial TTP diagnosis or after iTTP diagnosis, respectively. CONCLUSION: Though pregnancy in women with iTTP is high risk, close monitoring and prophylactic interventions can improve outcomes. While many women with iTTP are counseled regarding the risks of pregnancy, few receive counseling regarding their options to potentially improve pregnancy outcomes. This limits their reproductive choices and impacts their relationships. Educating clinicians and providing information to patients though patient advocacy groups may help address these healthcare gaps.

Perioperative Complications in Patients with Preeclampsia Undergoing Caesarean Section Surgery.

Caesarean section has risks of bleeding, infection and thromboembolism, and neuroendocrine-metabolic, and inflammatory-immune responses that may worsen outcomes in patients with preeclampsia. There is little research examining perioperative, as opposed to peripartum, outcomes in patients with preeclampsia. We conducted a single-centrecentre retrospective cohort study of perioperative patients with preeclampsia over an eight-month period to determine the rate of perioperative complication. Seventy-two patients were included. The maternal complication rate was 59.7 per 100 operations (95% CI 48.2 to 70.3%). Severe complications included pulmonary oedema 2 (2.8%), haemorrhage > 1000 mL 5 (6.9%), and blood transfusion 2 (2.8%). Twenty (27.8%) patients had a hospital length of stay ≥7 days. The rate of anaemia (haemoglobin < 110 g/L) on hospital discharge was 42 per 100 operations (95% CI 31.0 to 53.2%). Patient representation rate to hospital after discharge was 23.6% per 100 operations (95% CI 15.3 to 34.6%). There were no maternal deaths. The neonatal complication rate was 38.9 per 100 operations (95% CI 28.9 to 51.1%) with one foetal death. Patients with preeclampsia undergoing caesarean section are a very high-risk surgical group who experience significant perioperative complications. Urgent action is needed to confirm these findings and improve outcomes in these patients.

Normal birth rates before and after the merging of mixed-risk and low-risk maternity wards in Iceland: A retrospective cohort study on the impact of inter-professional preventative measures.

In 2014, the National University Hospital of Iceland (NUHI) merged a mixed-risk birth unit and a midwifery-led low-risk unit into one mixed-risk unit. Interprofessional preventative and mitigating measures were implemented since there was a known threat of cultural contamination between mixed-risk and low-risk birth environments. The aim of the study was to assess whether the NUHI's goal of protecting the rates of birth without intervention had been achieved and to support further development of labor services. A retrospective cohort study of all women who had singleton births at NUHI birth units in two 2-year periods, 2012-2013 and 2015-2016. The primary outcome variables, birth without intervention, with or without artificial rupture of membranes (AROM), were adjusted for confounding variables using logistic regression analysis. Secondary outcome variables (individual interventions and maternal and neonatal complications) were analyzed using descriptive statistics, t test, and Chi-square test. The rate of births without interventions, both with and without AROM, increased significantly after the unit merger and accompanying preventative measures. The rates of AROM, oxytocin augmentation, episiotomies, and epidural analgesia decreased significantly. The rate of induction increased significantly. There were no significant differences in maternal or neonatal complication rates. Interprofessional preventative measures, implemented alongside a mixed-risk and low-risk birth unit merger, can increase rates of births without interventions in a mixed-risk hospital setting. However, it is necessary to maintain awareness of the possible effects of a mixed-risk birth environment on the use of childbirth interventions and examine the long-term effects of preventative measures.

Diagnostic et prise en charge d’hyperparathyroïdie primaire pendant la grossesse : revue de la littérature autour d’un cas

ObjectiveThere is no specific recommendation for management in pregnant women: the aim of this review, based on a clinical case study, is to clarify its development, complications, risk factor and treatment. MethodsA review of the literature was performed by consulting the Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and Science Direct databases. ResultsPrimary hyperparathyroidism is defined as excessive production of parathyroid hormone resulting in hypercalcemia. The prevalence of primary hyperparathyroidism during pregnancy is not known. Indeed, the symptomatology, related to hypercalcemia, is not very specific and easily confused with the clinical manifestations of pregnancy. The physiological changes specific to the pregnant state frequently lead to a slight hypocalcemia which may complicate the diagnosis of primary hyperparathyroidism. Primary hyperparathyroidism results from a parathyroid adenoma in the majority of cases and is detected by ultrasound during pregnancy. Primary hyperparathyroidism in pregnancy causes significant risks to both mother and fetus. The maternal complication rate is 14–67%, however, the most serious complication is hypercalcemic crisis, which requires increased surveillance in the postpartum period. Obstetrical complications are also induced by primary hyperparathyroidism, such as acute polyhydramnios, or intrauterine growth retardation. The fetal complication rate can reach 45–80% of cases with neonatal hypocalcemia as the main complication. If medical treatment is based on hyperhydration, only surgical treatment is curative. ConclusionSurgery should be proposed to symptomatic patients or those with high blood calcium levels, discussed in interdisciplinary committee and should be organized ideally in the second trimester to avoid maternal and fetal complications.

Letrozole During Frozen Embryo Transfer in Women With Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

To compare live-birth rates between letrozole application and artificial cycle for endometrium preparation during frozen embryo transfer (FET) cycle among women with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). A randomized controlled trial was conducted. Women with PCOS were randomized to letrozole application for ovulation induction compared with artificial cycle for endometrial preparation during FET. The primary outcome was live-birth rate per embryo transfer. Secondary outcomes included pregnancy-related outcomes, perinatal outcomes, and maternal complication rates. Assuming α=0.05 and 80% power, 186 patients per group were required to demonstrate a difference of 15% in live-birth rate: 205 patients (at least) per group were randomized to allow for a 10% dropout rate. Four hundred twenty patients were enrolled from 2018 to 2021. Two hundred ten patients were assigned to the letrozole application group, and 210 were assigned to the artificial cycle group. There was no difference in the live-birth rate (42.4% vs 42.9%, P =>.99). There was no difference in secondary outcomes, including clinical pregnancy rate (51.4% vs 56.2%, P =.378), implantation rate (51.8% vs 55.8%, P =.401), and miscarriage rate (8.6% vs 11.0%, P =.511). For perinatal outcomes, singleton birth weight was significantly higher in the artificial cycle group (3,108±56 g vs 3,301±58, P =.018), and the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was significantly higher in letrozole application group (14.6% vs 5.6%, P =.050). The other outcome was no difference in maternal complications. There was no difference in pregnancy outcomes between letrozole application compared with artificial cycle for endometrial preparation in women with PCOS who underwent FET. The risk of GDM was higher in the letrozole application group, and the singleton birth weight was lower in the artificial cycle group. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry, ChiCTR1800014746.

Maternal and Neonatal Outcomes After Ex-Utero Intrapartum Treatment for Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia: A Case Series.

Despite advances in neonatal intensive care, fetuses with congenital diaphragmatic hernia (CDH) remain to have a poor prognosis. Exclusive postnatal treatment is inadequate in patients with moderate CDH (observed than expected lung-to-head ratio [O/E LHR] 26-45%) and can lead to respiratory failure at birth, requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in 75% of cases. An ex-utero intrapartum treatment (EXIT) procedure may be beneficial in these cases, improving the fetal-neonatal transition. We review all pregnancies with fetal isolated left CDH with moderate O/E LHR delivered by EXIT in our center from January 2007 to December 2022. Maternal and neonatal variables were analyzed. As primary outcomes, we included neonatal survival and mortality rates, surgical and infectious complications, uterine scar dehiscence, and blood loss during EXIT. As secondary outcomes, we studied recurrences of the diaphragmatic defect, long-term evolution, subsequent pregnancies, and mode of delivery. A total of 14 patients were delivered by the EXIT procedure, with a neonatal survival rate of 85.7%. All these children had optimal physical and neurocognitive development and no pulmonary morbidity. We found no major complications and 7.1% of minor maternal complications. There were no cases of surgical wound infection or endometritis. The median decrease in hemoglobin during the EXIT procedure was 1.9 mg/dL, and only one case required postoperative transfusion. Two out of the 14 women became pregnant again, and both pregnancies were uneventful. In our series, the EXIT procedure allows for adequate airway management associated with a high neonatal survival rate in patients with moderate O/E LHR CDH, with a low rate of neonatal and maternal complications.

The Impact of Advanced Maternal Age on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Retrospective Multicenter Study.

The aim of this multicenter retrospective cohort study was to examine the impact of maternal age on perinatal outcomes in multiparas, stratified according to maternal age in one- and two-year increments. The analysis involved 302,484 multiparas who delivered between the years 2003 and 2021 in four university-affiliated obstetrics departments. Maternal age was considered both as a continuous variable and in two-year intervals, as compared with a comparison group of parturients aged 25-30 years. The study focused on cesarean delivery and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission as primary outcomes. The findings revealed that cesarean delivery rates increased as maternal age advanced, with rates ranging from 6.7% among 25-30 year olds, rising continuously from 13.5% to 19.9% between the age strata of 31 and 42, to exceeding 20% among those aged ≥ 43 years (p < 0.01 for each stratum when compared to 25-30 year old group). Similarly, NICU admission rates rose from 2.7% in the comparison group to 6% in parturients aged 45-46 years (p < 0.01 for each stratum when compared to 25-30 year old group). The study highlights the association between incrementally advanced maternal age and increased rates of maternal and neonatal complications, necessitating global awareness of these implications for family planning decisions and maternal care.

Maternal complications and associated factors among mothers who underwent a cesarean section at Gebretsadik Shewa general hospital: an institution based cross-sectional study.

Cesarean sections have played a major role in lowering maternal morbidity and mortality rates, but are a major concern in developing countries. This study aims to assess the magnitude of maternal complication and its associated factors among women who underwent a cesarean section at Gebretsadik Shewa general hospital, Southwest Ethiopia. A hospital-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Gebretsadik Shewa general hospital. Data were extracted from 382 mothers' medical charts, retrieved from the labor and operations theatre log book registry using systematic random sampling technique. The extracted data was coded and entered into Epi Data version 3.0, and exported to Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20 for analysis. Logistic regression analysis was conducted and significance and strength association was determined considering AOR with a 95% confidence level. A total of 382 mothers' charts were reviewed; however, 368 charts were eligible for data entry. The age of the participants ranges between 16 and 42 years with mean and standard deviation of 26.1 ± 4.8 years. Maternal complication rate was 30.4% [95% CI: 25.8- 35.1]. Surgical site infection (10.3%), anemia (6.5%) and intraoperative bleeding (4.6%) were the most common. Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that no antenatal care follow up, medical illness during pregnancy, emergency cesarean section and not receiving a prophylactic antibiotic were statistically associated with maternal complications. The incidence of maternal complication following cesarean delivery was unduly high. Community based education about antenatal care follow up and its importance should be further strengthened for favorable maternal and fetal outcomes.

The Effect of SARS-CoV-2 İnfection on Perinatal Outcomes in Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy.

To evaluate the fetal and maternal effects of the severe acute respiratory syndrome virus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in women with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Patients with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and SARS-CoV-2 polymerase chain reaction (PCR) positivity (n = 55) were compared with cases with similar characteristics and PCR negativity (n = 53). The study group was further divided into two groups as severe (n = 11) and nonsevere (n = 44) coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The groups were compared in terms of clinical characteristics and perinatal outcomes. The study and control groups were similar in terms of maternal age, parity, gestational age at diagnosis, type of hypertensive disorders, magnesium sulfate administration rate, gestational age at birth, birth weight, Apgar scores, and maternal complications. However, all cases of fetal loss (n = 6) were observed in the SARS-CoV-2 positive group (p = 0.027). From the 6 cases, there were 5 in the nonsevere group and 1 patient in the severe SARS-CoV-2 positive group. Moreover, higher rates of maternal complications, lower oxygen saturation values, and intensive care unit admissions were observed in the severe COVID-19 group. Physicians should be cautious about the management of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy cases with SARS-CoV-2 positivity. Fetal loss seems to be more common in cases with SARS-CoV-2 positivity and severe COVID-19 seems to be associated with higher rates of maternal complications. Close follow-up for fetal wellbeing and active management of severe cases in terms of maternal complications seem to be favorable.

Achievement of appropriate cesarean rates using Robson’s 10-Group classification system in Brazilian private practice

BackgroundIncreasing cesarean section (CS) rates are a global concern because they are related to higher maternal and neonatal complication rates and do not provide positive childbirth experiences. In 2019, Brazil ranked second globally, given its overall CS rate of 57%. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), populational CS rates of 10–15% are associated with decreased maternal, neonatal, and infant mortality rates. This study aimed to investigate whether multidisciplinary care following evidence-based protocols associated with a high motivation of both women and professionals for a vaginal birth leads to less overuse of CS in a Brazilian private practice (PP).MethodsThis cross-sectional study evaluated CS rates by Robson group for women who sought vaginal birth in a private practice in Brazil comparing with Swedish data. Collaborative care of midwives and obstetricians who adopted evidence-based guidelines was offered. CS rates, overall and by Robson group, contribution of each Robson group to the overall CS rate, clinical and nonclinical interventions, vaginal birth, pre-labor CS, and intrapartum CS proportions were estimated. The expected CS rate was calculated using the World Health Organization C-model tool. The analysis used Microsoft Excel and R Studio (version 1.2.1335. 2009–2019).ResultsThe PP overall CS rate was 15.1% (95%CI, 13.4–17.1%) versus the 19.8% (95%CI, 14.8–24.7%) rate expected by the WHO C-model tool. The population included 43.7% women in Robson Group 1 (nulliparous, single, cephalic, at term, spontaneous labor), 11.4% in Group 2 (nulliparous, single, cephalic, at term, induced labor or CS before labor), and 14.9% in Group 5 (multiparous women with previous CS), the greatest contributors to higher CS rates (75.4% of them). The Swedish overall CS rate was 17.9% (95%CI, 17.6–18.1%) in a population of 27% women in Robson Group 1, 10.7% in Group 2, and 9.2% in Group 5.ConclusionsMultidisciplinary care following evidence-based protocols, associated with high motivation of both women and professionals for vaginal birth, may lead to a significant and safe reduction of CS rates even in contexts such as Brazil, with high medicalization of obstetric care and excess CS.

PREGNANCY-RELATED COMPLICATIONS IN PRIMARY ALDOSTERONISM: A EUROPEAN SURVEY

Objective: Hypertensive pregnancy disorders, affecting 4 - 25% of pregnancies according to countries’ income, represent a major cause of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. Data on pregnancy's complications in patients with primary aldosteronism (PA) are scarce, despite PA being the most frequent cause of secondary hypertension. We did an international survey to collect maternal and fetal pregnancy-related complications in a cohort of women with PA recruited from 5 Hypertension Excellence Centers in Europe. Design and method: We included consecutive women aged 18 - 45 years who were pregnant either after or &lt;1-year before diagnosis of PA and excluded those who were pregnant after unilateral adrenalectomy for PA. PA diagnosis was made in each center according to guidelines. Information on maternal and fetal issues was obtained through medical records and patients’ interviews. Results: We included 78 women aged 30 ± 6 years, 33% nulliparous, 14% with past pre-eclampsia, 53% with hypokalemia, 4% smokers, 7% with type II diabetes, 4% with chronic kidney disease. They had 97 pregnancies, of which 43 occurred &lt;1 year before PA diagnosis and 54 after a median of 18 months from PA diagnosis. All women had either chronic or new onset gestational hypertension (12%). Excluding 7 spontaneous miscarriages, pregnancy-related complications occurred during 43 out of 90 pregnancies (44%), including proteinuria in 36 (40%), pre-eclampsia in 27 (30%), placental abruption in 2 (2%) and intrauterine fetal death in 6 pregnancies (7%). There was a high rate of delivery morbidity including 30% of pre-term births occurring at a median of 34 weeks of gestational age, and 35% of cesareans sections. A total of 23 out of 84 (27%) newborns had a low birth weight (&lt;2500 g) and 22 (26%) underwent neonatal intensive care. When compared to historical control cases from a systematic review, women with PA showed similar rates of maternal complications vs women with essential chronic hypertension, but higher rates of fetal complications (Figure 1). Conclusions: Our data emphasize the importance of PA screening in young hypertensive women prior pregnancy, to ensure 1) appropriate and early treatment of PA, and 2) strict follow-up during pregnancy.

Maternal and Perinatal Outcome in a Contemporary Cohort of Patients with Portal Hypertension: A Single-Center Experience.

Portal hypertension in pregnancy is characterized by an increased perinatal and maternal complication rate. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the perinatal and maternal outcomes of these high-risk pregnancies at our tertiary center. We identified pregnancies with portal hypertension in our departmental database for the years 2013 to 2021. The medical history and perinatal and maternal data were extracted from medical records. Eleven cases were identified. In pregnancy, delivery and postpartum, complications occurred in 72.7% of cases and included among others ascites, subclavian thrombosis, variceal-ligation-induced ulcer bleeding and postoperative hemorrhage. The cesarean delivery rate was 72.7% (n = 8); five of these were done for obstetric or fetal indications. The rate of preterm birth and admissions to neonatal intensive care unit were high (54.5% and 45.5%, respectively). Our case series substantiates the high maternal and perinatal complication rates seen in portal hypertension. The prevention of thromboembolic and bleeding complications was the main challenge. Care by an interdisciplinary team of experts is crucial for a successful perinatal and maternal outcome.

High-Order Parity Improves the Perinatal Outcome of Twin Deliveries.

Twin gestations are associated with an increased risk of obstetric and perinatal complications. We studied the association between parity and the rate of maternal and neonatal complications in twins deliveries. We performed a retrospective analysis of a cohort of twin gestations delivered between 2012 and 2018. Inclusion criteria consisted of twin gestation with two nonanomalous live fetuses at ≥24 weeks' gestation and no contraindications to vaginal delivery. Women were divided into three groups based on parity: primiparas, multiparas (parity of 1-4), and grand multiparas (parity ≥5). Demographic data were collected from electronic patient records and included maternal age, parity, gestational age at delivery, need for induction of labor, and neonatal birth weight. The primary outcome was mode of delivery. Secondary outcomes were maternal and fetal complications. The study population included 555 twin gestations. One hundred and three were primiparas, 312 were multiparas, and 140 were grand multiparas. Sixty-seven (65%) primiparas delivered the first twin vaginally, as did 294 (94%) multiparas and 133 (95%) grand multiparas (p <0.05). Thirteen (2.3%) women required delivery of the second twin by cesarean section. Among those who delivered both twins vaginally, there was no significant difference in the average time interval between the delivery of the first and the second twins between the groups. The need for transfusion of blood products was higher in the primiparous group compared with the other two groups (11.6 vs. 2.5 and 2.8%, p < 0.05). The rate of adverse maternal composite outcomes was higher among primiparous women compared with multiparous and grand multiparous (12.6, 3.2, and 2.8%, respectively, p < 0.05). The gestational age at delivery was earlier in the primiparous group compared with the other two groups, and the rate of preterm labor at <34 weeks' gestation was higher among the primiparas. The rate of second twin's 5-minute Apgar's score <7 and the composite adverse neonatal outcome among the primiparous group were significantly higher than the multiparous and grand multiparous groups. Our study demonstrates that there is an association between high-parity and good obstetric outcomes in twin pregnancies; high parity seems to serve as a protective, rather than a risk factor for adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. · There is an association between high-parity and good obstetric outcome in twin pregnancies.. · High parity serves as a protective factor for adverse maternal outcomes in twin deliveries.. · High parity serves as a protective factor for adverse neonatal outcomes in twin deliveries..

Diminished ovarian reserve may not be associated with a poorer fresh cycle outcome in women < 38 years

BackgroundPrevious studies have discussed the pregnancy outcomes of diminished ovarian reserve (DOR) patients. However, data on embryonic development potential, neonatal outcomes, and maternal complications of DOR patients still remained unknown. This is the first study to investigate the risk of DOR on pregnancy and perinatal outcomes among women < 38 years.MethodsRetrospective cohort study was conducted. Patients (< 38 years of age) undergoing their first oocyte retrieval cycle were included. Patients were divided into DOR group and non-DOR group. Pregnancy outcomes of fresh cycle and cumulative live birth rate and perinatal outcomes after one oocyte retrieved cycle were compared between DOR and non-DOR group.Result(s)From January 2016 to September 2020, there were 8,179 patients involved: 443 patients in the DOR group and 7,736 patients in the non-DOR group. The incidences of live birth and clinical pregnancy did not differ significantly between patients with or without DOR after fresh cycle transfer, but the cumulative live birth rate was significantly lower in DOR group. Among women who had singleton live births, after binary logistic regression, the rates of maternal complications and neonatal outcomes were comparable in the two groups.Conclusion(s)DOR patients (< 38 years of age) showed similar pregnancy outcomes in the first fresh embryo transfer cycle but a lower chance of live birth after a whole oocyte retrieval cycle to non-DOR patients and DOR is not associated with adverse perinatal outcomes.

Anesthesia Fellowship Programs in Global Health: An Update

Features| April 2023 Anesthesia Fellowship Programs in Global Health: An Update Sara Park, MD; Sara Park, MD Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Michelle Arteaga, MS, MHA; Michelle Arteaga, MS, MHA Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Samuel Percy, MD; Samuel Percy, MD Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar Ana Maria Crawford, MD, MSc, FASA Ana Maria Crawford, MD, MSc, FASA Search for other works by this author on: This Site PubMed Google Scholar ASA Monitor April 2023, Vol. 87, 24–25. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000924988.69928.fa Views Icon Views Article contents Figures & tables Video Audio Supplementary Data Peer Review Share Icon Share Facebook Twitter LinkedIn MailTo Cite Icon Cite Get Permissions Search Site Citation Sara Park, Michelle Arteaga, Samuel Percy, Ana Maria Crawford; Anesthesia Fellowship Programs in Global Health: An Update. ASA Monitor 2023; 87:24–25 doi: https://doi.org/10.1097/01.ASM.0000924988.69928.fa Download citation file: Ris (Zotero) Reference Manager EasyBib Bookends Mendeley Papers EndNote RefWorks BibTex toolbar search Search Dropdown Menu toolbar search search input Search input auto suggest filter your search All ContentAll PublicationsASA Monitor Search Advanced Search Topics: world health Safe surgery is a core component of universal health coverage, which includes safe anesthesia and perioperative care. In the United States, there are 21 anesthesiologists per 100,000 people. Yet, in low-income countries such as Ethiopia, there are only 0.05 anesthesiologists per 100,000 people (asamonitor.pub/30bffPZ). According to the World Federation of Societies of Anaesthesiologists (WFSA), Afghanistan has only one physician qualified in anesthesiology in the entire country. In resource-constrained countries with anesthesiology training programs, anesthesiology is often seen as a less desirable specialty with low interest levels among medical students. This is partly due to lack of exposure during training (Trop Doct 2005;35:220-2; Trop Doct 2000;30:146-9; World J Surg 2010;34:438-44). Safe surgery is not always possible, and rates of preventable maternal and surgical complications remain elevated in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) (Trop Doct 2005;35:220-2; Trop Doct 2000;30:146-9). A scarcity of trained... You do not currently have access to this content.