Multiple Cesarean Research Articles

Anatomical & Ayurvedic Changes in the Women's Body Resulting from Multiple Cesarean Sections

C-section is a common surgical delivery in cases where a vaginal delivery may pose a potential threat to the well-being of the child or mother. In most cases, C-section is normally safe, but undergoing several C-sections can cause enormous anatomical changes in a woman's body. These changes may affect the structure of the uterus, the abdominal wall, and tissues perforating in the area, thus presenting a possible health complication when pregnant.

What is the best mode of delivery in nulliparous, singleton, term, vertex pregnancies

With approximately 145 million births occurring worldwide each year—over 30 million by cesarean delivery (CD), the need for evaluation of maternal and perinatal outcomes in different delivery scenarios is more pressing than ever. Recently, in a meta-analysis of the available randomized controlled trials, planned CD was associated with significantly decreased rates of low umbilical artery pH, and neonatal complications such as birth trauma, tube feeding, and hypotonia when compared to planned vaginal delivery (VD). Among singleton pregnancies, planned CD was associated with a significantly lower rate of perinatal death. For mothers, planned CD was associated with significantly less chorioamnionitis, more wound infection, and less urinary incontinence at 1 to 2 years. Conversely, planned VD has been associated with benefits such as a lower incidence of wound infection and quicker postpartum recovery compared to planned CD. Nonetheless, several risk factors for CD are increasing—such as older maternal age, obesity, diabetes, excessive gestational weight gain, and birth weight—while maternal pelvises are getting smaller. Concerns about the potential long-term risks of multiple cesarean deliveries, such as placenta accreta spectrum disorders, highlight the need for a balanced evaluation of both delivery modes. However, the total fertility rate is decreasing in the US and around the world, with many people wanting two or fewer babies, which decreases future risk of placenta accreta incurred by multiple cesarean deliveries in these individuals. Furthermore, one in four obstetricians-gynecologists has undergone a CD on maternal request for their nulliparous, singleton, term, vertex (NSTV) pregnancy, and CD rates less than about 19% have been associated with higher perinatal and maternal mortality. Thus, we propose that it is imperative that we prioritize conducting randomized trials to compare planned cesarean to planned VD for NSTV pregnancies. Such trials would need to include 8000 or more individuals; they would ideally follow each participant to the end of their reproductive life and study perinatal and maternal outcomes, including nonbiologic outcomes such as patient satisfaction, postpartum depression, breastfeeding rates, mother-infant bonding, post-traumatic stress, and cost-effectiveness. The time for such a trial is now, as it holds the potential to inform and improve obstetrical care practices globally.

Frequency of Placenta Previa among Women with Previous Cesarean-Section

Placenta Previa was defined as when the placenta was attached to the lower uterine segment, poses significant risks, including antepartum hemorrhage and maternal mortality. The incidence was rising, attributed partly to increased cesarean sections and advanced maternal age. Objective: To determine the frequency of placenta Previa among women with previous cesarean-sections. Methods: This cross sectional study was carried out at a Teaching Hospital of Sialkot, from June to December 2021. The sample size was 147 pregnant females. These pregnant females have a history of cesarean section. The non-probability Consecutive sampling technique was used, and data were analyzed by using SPSS version 25.0. Results: Among those, 16.3% had placenta Previa, which increased significantly in women with >2 previous cesarean sections to 26.4% (p = 0.003). Regarding parity, the increase in the risk of placenta Previa was not significant: 12.8% for parity < 3 and 20.3% for parity ≥ 3 (p = 0.087). However, in the stratified analysis by BMI, this became significant: 11.0% for normal-weight, 18.6% for overweight, and 66.7% for obese women (p = 0.001). There was no significant difference concerning age groups, p = 0.177. Such findings of the significant associations of placenta Previa with such factors as BMI and number of cesarean sections indicate that great attention to monitoring should be paid. Conclusion: Hence concluded that previous cesarean sections strongly correlate with placenta previa in subsequent pregnancies. Such findings underscore the need for rigorous monitoring and proactive measures, especially in cases of multiple cesarean deliveries, in the management of associated complications.

Maternal and Fetal Outcomes after Multiple Cesarean Deliveries.

Background/Objectives: Cesarean delivery (CD) is a common procedure, but it can be associated with some increasing risks as the number of previous CD increases. Although women undergoing multiple CDs is very unusual in Spain, our center serves pregnant women with a history of three or more previous CDs with some frequency. We aimed to assess whether women who undergo multiple CDs (≥4) have more risks than those who undergo a third CD. Material and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted with 161 pregnant women who had undergone ≥ 2 previous CDs and were monitored during their next pregnancy. The primary endpoint was to evaluate the obstetric hemorrhage rate in the multiple CD group and compare it with that in the third CD group. Secondary outcomes regarding maternal and neonatal complications were also analyzed. Results: Hemorrhage (7% and 10%; p = 0.522) and transfusion (3% and 8%; p = 0.141) rates were similar in both groups. The risk of dehiscence of the uterine segment (6% and 24%; p < 0.006), as well as hysterectomy (0 and 6.6%, p = 0.019), difficult abdominal opening (49% and 82%; p = 0.001), peritoneal adhesions (3% and 22%; p < 0.001), and difficult bladder separation (36% and 73%; p < 0.001), was higher in the multiple CD group. No uterine rupture or maternal-neonatal mortality was observed in either of the groups. Conclusions: Since undergoing multiple CD is uncommon, our study may be the largest sample in our environment. Our findings suggest that despite the potential risks of undergoing multiple CDs, maternal and neonatal outcomes are overall favorable.

The effect of uterine closure technique on cesarean scar niche development after multiple cesarean deliveries.

To use saline infusion sonohysterography (SIS) to evaluate the effect of uterine closure technique on niche formation after multiple cesarean deliveries (CDs). Patients with at least one prior CD were evaluated for niche via SIS. Subgroups of any number repeat CD (>1 prior), lower-order CD (<4 prior), and higher-order CD (≥4 prior) were analyzed, stratifying by hysterotomy closure technique at last cesarean preceding imaging; techniques included Technique A (endometrium-free double-layer closure) and Technique B (single- or double-layer routine endo-myometrial closure). Niche defects were quantified (depth, length, width, and residual myometrial thickness). The primary outcome was clinically significant niche, defined as depth >2 mm. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square, ANOVA, t-test, Kruskal-Wallis, and multiple logistic regression, with p-values of <0.05 were statistically significant. A total of 172 post-cesarean SIS studies were reviewed: 105 after repeat CDs, 131 after lower-order CDs, and 41 after higher-order CDs. Technique A was associated with a shorter interval to imaging and more double-layer closures. Technique B was associated with more clinically significant niches across all subgroups, and these niches were significantly longer and deeper when present. Multiple logistic regression demonstrated a 5.6, 8.1, and 11-fold increased adjusted odds of clinically significant niche following Technique B closure in the repeat CD (p<0.01), lower-order CD (p<0.001), and higher-order CD (p=0.04) groups, respectively. While multiple CDs are known to increase risk for niche defects and their sequelae, hysterotomy closure technique may help to reduce niche development and severity.

Multiple Cesarean Section Outcomes and Complications: A Retrospective Study in Jazan, Saudi Arabia.

Given the increase in the rate of cesarean sections (CSs) globally and in Saudi Arabia, this study was conducted to assess the maternal and perinatal complications after repeat cesarean sections in the studied population. This retrospective study was conducted by reviewing the records of all women who underwent CSs between January and July 2023 in three hospitals in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Of the 268 women studied, 195 (72.7%) had a CS for the first or second time and 73 (27.3%) had two, three, or four previous CSs (repeat CS). The most common maternal intra-operative complications reported by the repeat CS group were intra-peritoneal adhesions (7.5%) and fused abdominal layers (7.1%) while the most common postoperative complications were the need for blood transfusion (22%) and UTIs (3%). The most common neonatal complications were a low Apgar score (19%), needing neonatal resuscitation (2.6%), and intensive care admission. In addition, 3.7% of mothers failed to initiate breastfeeding in the first 24 h. The frequent complications were intra-peritoneal adhesions, fused abdominal wall layers, blood transfusion, and postoperative infections which were overcome by the optimal hospital care. However, the frequent neonatal complications were a low Apgar score, needing neonatal resuscitation, and intensive care admission.

Early diagnosis of placenta accreta in case of mid trimester postabortal haemorrhage with previous 3 cesarean sections

: To know the risk and management of postabortal haemorrhage in patients with previous caesarean delivery to prevent maternal mortality. : Placenta accreta is an emergency life threatening obstetric situation may also complicate first trimester and midtrimester abortion and encountered as profuse vaginal bleeding and difficulty in placenta removal at delivery. The incidence of placenta accreta increased from 1 in 30,000 pregnancies in 1960 to 1 in 533 pregnancies in 2000. Placenta accreta developed in 55 of 590 women with placenta previa and 7 of 156080 without placenta previa. Increased incidence of caesarean increases the incidence of placenta accreta. Multiple caesarean deliveries are largest risk factor for placenta accreta. On the basis of a high risk factor, suspected case of placenta accreta spectrum, must be diagnose and be in charge of a multidisciplinary team with better maternal and fetal outcome. A 36 years old patient, P3L3A1 had prior 3 LSCS with retained placenta with profuse bleeding per vaginum with history of expulsion of fetus (18 week) on the way to hospital, presented to labor room. Patient was unbooked and uninvestigated. Initial resuscitation done along with oxytocic given but no sign of placental separation was there and bleeding was continued. On the basis of torrential bleeding and history of previous three caesarean deliveries, patient is immediately shifted to the operation theatre for exploratory laparotomy in view or provisional diagnosis of a morbidly adherent placenta with torrential haemorrhage. On laparotomy, the anterior surface of lower uterine segment of uterus accompanied by numbers of engorged blood vessels. Bladder was spared. Decision of exploratory laparotomy taken into consideration of morbidly adherent placenta, and procedure was ended with Subtotal hysterectomy, haemostasis achieved. 2 units PCV transfused intraoperatively and patient was shifted to intensive care unit for observation postoperatively. Her postoperative duration was uneventful; she got discharged on postoperative day6 under satisfactory condition. The specimen was sent for histopathological examination. Vigilant monitoring and timely intervention in obstetric emergencies can avoid maternal mortality. We wish to highlight the vigilant monitoring and timely decision, active collaboration by multidisciplinary team improve outcomes in patient of postabortal haemorrhage in midtrimester with previous caesarean delivery with placenta accreta spectrum.

Association between inter-pregnancy interval and risk of adverse birth outcomes in subsequent pregnancy: A retrospective study from Jordan.

Adverse birth outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight (LBW), are leading causes of neonatal morbidity and mortality. In this study, we aimed to estimate the association between inter-pregnancy interval (IPI) and the risks of adverse birth outcomes in a subsequent pregnancy. We conducted a retrospective analysis involving 630 mothers who delivered a singleton live infant at a leading tertiary hospital in northern Jordan from March to August 2021. Outcome variables were preterm birth (<37 weeks of gestation) and LBW (<2.5 kg). Using multivariable logistic regression, the association between IPI and these two adverse birth outcomes was investigated. The rates of preterm birth and LBW were 12.4% and 16.8%, respectively. Compared with an optimal IPI (24-36 months), a short IPI (<24 months) was positively associated with preterm birth (aOR: 4.09; 95% CI: 1.48-6.55) and LBW (aOR: 3.58; 95% CI: 1.57-5.15). Infants conceived after a long IPI (≥ 60 months) had increased odds of preterm birth (aOR: 3.78; 95% CI: 1.12-5.78) and LBW (aOR: 2.65; 95% CI: 1.67-4.03). Preterm delivery was also significantly associated with the mother's age (aOR: 1.10; 95% CI: 1.04-1.17), history of multiple cesarean births (aOR: 2.67; 95% CI: 1.14-4.29), prolonged rupture of membranes (aOR: 2.46; 95% CI: 1.10-5.52), and perinatal death (aOR: 3.42; 95% CI: 1.10-5.49). A mother's history of prior LBW (aOR: 4.39; 95% CI: 1.08-6.80), hypertensive disorders (aOR: 1.95; 95% CI: 1.03-3.89), and multiple cesarean births (aOR: 4.35; 95% CI: 2.10-6.99) was associated with LBW. Both short and long IPIs were related to preterm delivery and LBW. Optimal birth spacing is recommended to improve birth outcomes and must be considered when designing effective family planning programs.

Perinatal assessment of complex cesarean delivery: beyond placenta accreta spectrum

Multiple cesarean deliveries are known to be associated with long-term postoperative consequences because of a permanent defect of the lower uterine segment wall and the development of thick pelvic adhesions. Patients with a history of multiple cesarean deliveries often present with large cesarean scar defects and are at heightened risk in subsequent pregnancies of cesarean scar ectopic pregnancy, uterine rupture, low-lying placenta or placenta previa, and placenta previa accreta. Moreover, large cesarean scar defects will lead to progressive dehiscence of the lower uterine segment with the inability to effectively reapproximate hysterotomy edge and repair at birth. Major remodeling of the lower uterine segment associated with true placenta accreta spectrum at birth, whereby the placenta becomes inseparable from the uterine wall, increases the rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality, especially when undiagnosed before delivery. Ultrasound imaging is currently not routinely used to evaluate the surgical risks of patients with a history of multiple cesarean deliveries, beyond the risk assessment of placenta accreta spectrum. Independent of accreta placentation, a placenta previa under a scarred, thinned partially disrupted lower uterine segment, covered by thick adhesions with the posterior wall of the bladder, poses a surgical risk and requires fine dissection and surgical expertise; however, data on the use of ultrasound to evaluate uterine remodeling and adhesions between the uterus and other pelvic organs are scarce. In particular, transvaginal sonography has been underused, including in patients with a high probability of placenta accreta spectrum at birth. Based on the best available knowledge, we discuss the role of ultrasound imaging in identifying the signs suggestive of major remodeling of the lower uterine segment and in mapping the changes in the uterine wall and pelvis, to enable the surgical team to prepare for all different types of complex cesarean deliveries. The need for postnatal confirmation of the prenatal ultrasound findings for all patients with a history of multiple cesarean deliveries, regardless of the diagnosis of placenta previa and placenta accreta spectrum, is discussed. We propose an ultrasound imaging protocol and a classification of the level of surgical difficulty at elective cesarean delivery to stimulate further research toward the validation of ultrasound signs by which these signs may be applied to improve surgical outcomes.

The application of a continuous partnership-based birth plan in China: A randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe cesarean section rate is as high as 36.7% in China, much higher than the average cesarean section rate of 27% in Asia. With the implementation of the two-children and three-children policy, the primipara with cesarean will also face the choice of repeated or even multiple cesareans, which will increase the risk of maternal perinatal mortality and serious fetal pulmonary morbidity. To reduce the cesarean section rate, a series of midwifery service measures such as the birth plan have been taken in China and it has played a certain role in improving the birth outcome and maternal birth experience. However, the areas carrying out birth plan are often economically developed with advanced medical conditions. the application effect of birth plan in economically underdeveloped areas with limited medical conditions in China is unknown. ObjectiveTo evaluate the effects of a continuous partnership-based birth plan on local women's birth outcomes and experience in Haikou which is an economically underdeveloped city in China. DesignA randomized controlled trial study design was used. Participants90 primiparous women who received pregnancy service from the obstetrics clinic of one of tertiary hospitals in Haikou city, Hainan Province between July 2020 and December 2020 and planned to give birth in this hospital were recruited. MethodsAfter eligibility was determined, consents obtained and baseline surveys completed, 90 participants were randomly allocated to study groups with concealed opaque envelopes by a blinded research assistant and each group were 45 participants. Participants in control group received routine obstetric health service and nursing care, while participants in the experimental group received the continuous partnership service of midwives on the basis of routine care. At the same time, the birth plan was formulated and implemented, and the relevant indicators were recorded and analyzed during and after birth, including cesarean section rate, non-medical indication cesarean section rate, oxytocin use rate, perineal lateral resection rate and anxiety degree. ResultsThe cesarean rate in the experiment and control groups were 20.45% and 57.14%, of which the non-medical indication cesarean rate in the experiment and control groups were 22.22% and 50.00%, respectively, whereby the difference of cesarean rate and nonmedically indicated cesarean section rate between the groups was statistically significant (χ2 = 12.231, p < 0.001;χ2 = 9.101, p = 0.003). Besides, the differences in anxiety degree, neonatal NICU transfer rate and satisfaction of birth between the two groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05). While there was no significant difference in oxytocin use rate, perineal lateral resection rate, neonatal 1-min and 5-min Alzheimer's score between the two groups (P > 0.05). ConclusionThe birth plan based on continuous partnership can reduce medical intervention, improve birth outcomes, reduce anxiety and optimize maternal birth experience of women, which is worthy of promotion in economically underdeveloped areas of China.

A near miss case of placenta percreta at primary care: A case report

We present a case of severe placenta percreta in a 33-year-old woman, gravida 9 para5+3, who presented to the health clinic with gross hematuria for three days at 16 weeks gestation. She had a history of multiple cesarean deliveries and uterine curettage. The diagnosis was suspected, and an urgent referral was made. Ultrasonography findings done by an obstetrician in a tertiary hospital confirmed the diagnosis. Unfortunately, the pregnancy had to be terminated as her condition deteriorated. Primary care practitioners should have high clinical suspicion to recognize this rare and life-threatening condition.

Quality Initiative to Reduce Failed Trial of Labor after Cesarean Using Calculated VBAC Success Likelihood.

Vaginal birth after cesarean can reduce morbidity associated with multiple cesarean deliveries. Failed vaginal birth after cesarean is associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity. The Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units Vaginal Birth After Cesarean calculator is a validated tool to predict the likelihood of successful trial of labor after cesarean. Predicted likelihood < 60% has been associated with increased maternal and neonatal morbidity. We sought to determine if formal incorporation of calculated vaginal birth after cesarean likelihood into patient-centered counseling would reduce failed vaginal birth after cesarean. This is a quality improvement intervention at a single tertiary-care academic medical center, in which standardized patient counseling was implemented, facilitated by an electronic medical record template featuring patient-specific likelihood of vaginal birth after cesarean success. Term singleton pregnancies with history of one to two cesareans were included; those with contraindication to labor were excluded. Historical controls (January 2016-December 2018, n = 693) were compared with a postimplementation cohort (January 2019-April 2020, n = 328). Primary outcome was failed vaginal birth after cesarean. Fewer patients in the postintervention cohort had a history of an arrest disorder (PRE: 48%, 330/693 vs. POST: 40%, 130/326, p = 0.03); demographics were otherwise similar, including the proportion of patients with <60% likelihood of success (PRE: 39%, 267/693, vs. POST: 38%, 125/326). Following implementation, induction of labor in patients with a <60% likelihood of successful vaginal birth after cesarean decreased from 17% (45/267) to 5% (6/125, p < 0.01). The proportion of failed vaginal birth after cesarean decreased from 33% (107/329) to 22% (32/143, p = 0.04). Overall vaginal birth after cesarean rate did not change (PRE: 32%, 222/693, vs. POST: 34%, 111/326, p = 0.52). An intervention targeting provider counseling that included a validated vaginal birth after cesarean success likelihood was associated with decreased risk of failed trial of labor after cesarean without affecting overall vaginal birth after cesarean rate. · Labored cesarean increases maternal morbidity.. · Application of the Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) calculator to antenatal counseling decreased labored cesarean.. · Application of the MFMU calculator to antenatal counseling did not decrease overall vaginal birth after cesarean rate..

Health-Related Quality-of-Life among Pregnant Women after First, Second, and Multiple Cesarean Sections in the Perinatal Period: A Short-Term Longitudinal Study

The primary objective of this study was to compare assessments of health-related quality-of-life (HRQoL) in women who had a medical qualification for cesarean section (CS), depending on the number of CSs in their medical history. A short longitudinal study was conducted among 115 women on the day before a planned cesarean section (CS)-T1, and on the third day after CS-T2. They were divided into three groups. G1: no CS (n = 17); G2: one CS (n = 34); G3: two or more CSs (n = 64). Participants completed a set of questionnaires concerning sociodemographic aspects and psychological outcomes: the HRQoL questionnaire (EQ-5D-3L). A chi-square test, McNemar's test, and repeated measures ANOVA were used to compare the three groups in T1 and T2. Regardless of the number of CSs, before a CS, women mainly experience health problems with pain and anxiety/depression, and after a CS, mostly problems with pain, usual activity, and mobility. All participants experienced an increase in the amount of health problems with mobility and pain after a CS. Women who have had two or more CSs also had problems with self-care and usual activities. Women who have had one or two CSs experienced a decrease in the general assessment of the HRQoL, which is not observed in the group of women with multiple CSs. However, the HRQoL of women in the group with multiple CSs was lower before the CS than in the other groups. The results indicated the significance of the number of CSs, not only in postoperative, but also in preoperative HRQoL.

Robotic Assisted Laparoscopic Excision of a Placenta Percreta

<h3>Study Objective</h3> To illustrate the steps of a robotic-assisted laparoscopic excision of a placenta percreta. <h3>Design</h3> Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is a group of disorders characterized by various degrees of placental invasion through the myometrium and uterine serosa. Incidence has increased in recent years following the increase in cesarean deliveries. Risk factors include previous uterine surgeries, multiple cesarean deliveries and the presence of placenta previa. Ultrasound is the primary diagnostic modality. Most PAS cases are diagnosed in the second trimester, and guidelines for early recognition are sparse. A cesarean hysterectomy is the mainstay of management. This video shows an alternative, fertility-sparing treatment for PAS when diagnosed early. <h3>Setting</h3> The video displays a patient in the operating room in the supine position, with Trendelenburg positioning and a bedside assist for robotic-assisted laparoscopy. <h3>Patients or Participants</h3> We present a case of a 32-year-old G5P1121 with a history of one prior cesarean section and a dilation and curettage who was had early imaging concerning for CS scar ectopic and placenta accreta spectrum. <h3>Interventions</h3> The patient was counseled on termination of pregnancy and given her desire for fertility, counseled on attempted resection of invading pregnancy with uterine repair. <h3>Measurements and Main Results</h3> Key surgical steps illustrated include the following: 1. Lysis of adhesions and separation of bladder 2. Identification of the borders of the pregnancy 3. Injection of vasopressin 4. Laparoscopic guided suction dilation and curettage 5. Dissection invading pregnancy 6. Circumferential resection of the invading pregnancy 7. Full thickness myometrial closure in multiple layers <h3>Conclusion</h3> Early diagnosis of placenta accreta spectrum provides options for alternative fertility-sparing treatment.

Prevalence and risk factor of postoperative adhesions following repeated cesarean section: A prospective cohort study.

To evaluate the prevalence of intraperitoneal adhesions after repeated cesarean delivery and its associated personal and surgical risk factors. This prospective cohort study was conducted at the delivery ward at Fayoum University Hospital from October 2020 to December 2021. Women were recruited according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Eligible women were interviewed, and data were obtained for personal history, past surgical and obstetrical history, and data about the current delivery. Nair's scoring system was used to evaluate intraperitoneal adhesions. Postoperative data and complications were reported. Three hundred women were recruited. Moderate to severe adhesions occurred in 186 patients (62%). These patients had a significantly prolonged hospital stay and were delivered by expert surgeons (P< 0.001 and P= 0.008, respectively). The adhesion score correlated positively with patients' age (P< 0.001), parity (P< 0.001), interpregnancy interval (P= 0.033), duration of hospital admission either previously or in the current delivery (P= 0.001 and P< 0.001), time to ambulation (P< 0.001), time to intestinal movement (P< 0.001), operative time (P< 0.001), and surgeons' age and experience (both P= 0.015). Adhesions led to increased maternal morbidity. Multiple contributing factors were significantly related to adhesions with multiple cesarean deliveries.

Factors Associated with Women with Multiple Caesarean Deliveries Presenting in Labour and their Fetomaternal Outcomes in Mwanza Region, Tanzania.

Background: Emergency caesarean section(C-section) for women with two or more uterine scars is documented to be associated with poor fetomaternal outcomes. The World Health Organization recommends elective C-section for women with two or more previous scars. However, in Tanzania there is a paucity of data for women with two or more prior C-sections and how it contributes to increased maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality when they come in active labour without a planned delivery. The purpose of the study was to determine factors associated with pregnant women with multiple C-section deliveries presenting in labour and their fetomaternal outcomes.&#x0D; Methods: This was a cross-sectional, hospital-based study, involving 275 pregnant women who underwent C-section due to multiple uterine scars in the Mwanza region. Socio-demographic and clinical characteristics were collected serially until the sample size was reached using a structured questionnaire and patients’ files. Data were analyzed using STATA version 13.0 software.&#x0D; Results: All pregnant women with two or more previous uterine scars attended antenatal care (ANC) and the majority, 62.2%, had four or more visits. However, 61.9% were not told of the need for elective C-section. In addition, 26% were not counselled about the obstetric danger signs. Among the study participants, 66.6% presented with labour pain requiring emergency C-section, 13.1% had postpartum hemorrhage and 3.3% had ruptured uterus. There were 3.3% peri-natal deaths and 10.9% required newborn resuscitation. The associated factors for women with two or more C-section scars presenting in active labour were: having the last ANC visit at primary healthcare (PHC) facility (p=0.046), unemployment (p&lt;0.001), visiting ANC &lt;4 visits (p=0.002) or being attended by a non-physician health provider in her last ANC visit(p&lt;0.001).&#x0D; Conclusion: Parturient women with uterine scars, when attending primary health care facilities for their ANC visits, ought to be counselled and referred to high facilities with clinicians who can plan an elective c-section delivery.

Prospective evaluation of impact of post‐Cesarean section uterine scarring in perinatal diagnosis of placenta accreta spectrum disorder

ABSTRACTObjectiveStandardized ultrasound imaging and pathology protocols have recently been developed for the perinatal diagnosis of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) disorders. The aim of this study was to evaluate prospectively the effectiveness of these standardized protocols in the prenatal diagnosis and postnatal examination of women presenting with a low‐lying placenta or placenta previa and a history of multiple Cesarean deliveries (CDs).MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study of 84 consecutive women with a history of two or more prior CDs presenting with a singleton pregnancy and low‐lying placenta/placenta previa at 32–37 weeks' gestation, who were referred for perinatal care and management between 15 January 2019 and 15 December 2020. All women were investigated using the standardized description of ultrasound signs of PAS proposed by the European Working Group on abnormally invasive placenta. In all cases, the ultrasound features were compared with intraoperative and histopathological findings. Areas of abnormal placental attachment were identified during the immediate postoperative gross examination and sampled for histological examination. The data of a subgroup of 32 women diagnosed antenatally as non‐PAS who had complete placental separation at birth were compared with those of 39 cases diagnosed antenatally as having PAS disorder that was confirmed by histopathology at delivery.ResultsOf the 84 women included in the study, 42 (50.0%) were diagnosed prenatally as PAS and the remaining 42 (50.0%) as non‐PAS on ultrasound examination. Intraoperatively, 66 (78.6%) women presented with a large or extended area of dehiscence and 52 (61.9%) with a dense tangled bed of vessels or multiple vessels running laterally and craniocaudally in the uterine serosa. A loss of clear zone was recorded on grayscale ultrasound imaging in all 84 cases, while there was no case with bladder‐wall interruption or with a focal exophytic mass. Myometrial thinning (< 1 mm) in at least one area of the anterior uterine wall was found in 41 (97.6%) of the 42 cases diagnosed as non‐PAS on ultrasound and 37 (88.1%) of the 42 diagnosed antenatally as PAS. Histological samples were available for all 48 hysterectomy specimens with abnormal placental attachment and for the three cases managed conservatively with focal myometrial resection and uterine reconstruction. Villous tissue was found directly attached to the superficial myometrium (placenta creta) in six of these cases and both creta villous tissue and deeply implanted villous tissue within the uterine wall (placenta increta) were found in the remaining 45 cases. There was no evidence of percreta placentation on histology in any of the PAS cases. Comparison of the main antenatal ultrasound signs and perioperative macroscopic findings between the two subgroups correctly diagnosed antenatally (32 non‐PAS and 39 PAS) showed no significant difference with respect to the distribution of myometrial thinning and the presence of a placental bulge on ultrasound and of anterior uterine wall dehiscence intraoperatively. Compared with the non‐PAS subgroup, the PAS subgroup showed significantly higher placental lacunae grade (P < 0.001) and more often hypervascularity of the uterovesical/subplacental area (P < 0.001), presence of bridging vessels (P = 0.027) and presence of lacunae feeder vessels (P < 0.001) on ultrasound examination, and increased vascularization of the anterior uterine wall intraoperatively (P < 0.001).ConclusionsRemodeling of the lower uterine segment following CD scarring leads to structural abnormalities of the uterine contour on both ultrasound examination and intraoperatively, independently of the presence of accreta villous tissue on microscopic examination. These anatomical changes are often reported as diagnostic of placenta percreta, including cases with no histological evidence of PAS. Guided histological examination could improve the overall diagnosis of PAS and is essential to obtain evidence‐based epidemiologic data. © 2021 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

'Wherever you are, my son, wait for me.' study on medically assisted reproduction

Abstract Introduction In Italy the use of Medically Assisted Procreation (MAP) is increasingly frequent also because the mean age at which Italian women have their first child has increased in recent decades (31.8 years in 2017) and it is more difficult to have a child for an older woman. The aim of this study was evaluate the maternal and neonatal outcomes of MAP and compare them with those of natural pregnancies. Methods The cross-sectional study was performed during the period January 2015-June 2019. All women that gave birth in the Hospital of Siena were included. The sample was divided in two groups (Natural pregnancy/MAP Pregnancy). The outcome variables were: maternal age, number of foetus, type of childbirth, timing of the birth, Apgar Index and necessity of hospitalization in neonatal intensive therapy unit (NITU) or resuscitation. The statistical analysis was performed with Stata 12. Results In total 5066 females were included (4.5% MAP pregnancy). The average age (±SD) of females was 32,9±5,56 (min 14-max 61). The mean age (±SD) of women with PMA was significantly higher 38.7 ± 5.7 vs. 32.6± 5.4 of those who had natural pregnancy. In PMA Pregnancy there was a higher probability of multiple pregnancy (OR = 16.13; 95% CI 10.38-25.07; p &amp;lt; 0.001), Caesarean Section (OR:4,54; 95% CI 3.28-6.31; p &amp;lt; 0,001) and preterm birth (OR 3.79; 95% IC 2.80-5.14; p &amp;lt; 0.001). Apgar index at the first minute was significantly lower in children born from pregnancies from MAP (8,6 ±1,4 vs, 9 ±1,4 p &amp;lt; 0.01), the difference was significant even in the 5th minute (9,6 ±0,7 vs. 9,8 ±0,6 p &amp;lt; 0.01). Children born by MAP Pregnancy had higher probability of hospitalization in Neonatal Intensive Care (OR = 3.12; 95% CI 2.12-4.59; p &amp;lt; 0.001). Conclusions In our sample we found that MAP is used by women with older average age and it is associated with less favourable maternal and neonatal outcomes than those from natural conception. Key messages In Italy the use of Medically Assisted Procreation (MAP) is increasingly frequent because it is more difficult to have a child for an older woman. In our sample we found that MAP is used by women with older average age and it is associated with less favourable maternal and neonatal outcomes than those from natural conception.

Laparoscopic Hysterectomy in a Patient with Ventriculo-Peritoneal Shunt after Multiple Cesarean Sections

Patients with ventriculo-peritoneal shunt (VPS) for hydrocephalus had an improved survival and are more encountered in need of abdominal surgery. Laparoscopic surgery has been reported safe for these patients, although infrequently. At least 3 types of complications had been recorded: shunt obstruction, infection, and vaginal migration. We report a case of middle-aged female with endometrial hyperplasia and VPS who has done laparoscopic hysterectomy safely.

42 Increased narcotic requirements after laparoscopic hysterectomy in patients with history of multiple cesarean deliveries

Complicated laparoscopic hysterectomies may result in increased manipulation of tissue, and potentially lead to suboptimal postoperative pain control. Given that pain in the post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) has been found to be directly associated with overall patient satisfaction, being able to identify what patients are at higher risk for increased pain would allow for preemptive targeted multimodal interventions to reduce postoperative discomfort. One of the most common factors that increases surgical complexity during hysterectomy is history of cesarean deliveries. The objective of this study was to determine if an increased number of prior cesarean deliveries in patients undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy resulted in higher narcotic use in the PACU. A retrospective chart review was performed using cases from 4 fellowship trained MIS surgeons with similar operative techniques. Cases from 2018-2020 were reviewed. We included all patients between the ages of 18 and 60 who underwent laparoscopic hysterectomy and received a preoperative para-cervical block. Patients who had concomitant procedures such as pelvic floor repair, interventions for urinary incontinence, or excision of endometriosis were excluded. Data collected included age, body mass index, uterine weight, estimated blood loss, operative time, and total narcotics received in the PACU. Units of narcotics administered were converted to intravenous morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) based on the American Pain Society guidelines and critical review papers. T-student was used to compare means between groups. There were 77 patients were selected for analysis. Patients were separated into groups depending on whether they had less than 3 (n = 60) or 3 or more (n = 17) cesarean deliveries. There was no difference regarding age (44.16 vs 44.65, P =.78), BMI (33.68 vs. 34.78, P=.53), EBL (65.17 mL vs. 85.88 mL, P=.14), or uterine weight (212.13 g vs. 202.88 g, P=.78). As expected, operating time was higher in the patients with 3 or more cesareans (140.08 min vs. 180.56 min, P<.01). Total narcotic use in the PACU was also significantly higher this group (5.42 MME vs. 10.24 MME, P<.01). These findings suggest that patients undergoing a laparoscopic hysterectomy with history of 3 or more cesarean deliveries are at a risk for higher narcotic requirements in the PACU and are potential targets for further postoperative pain reduction strategies.