Nonelective Cesarean Research Articles

Association between preoperative shock index and hypotension after spinal anesthesia for non-elective cesarean section: a prospective cohort study

BackgroundShock index (SI) is calculated as heart rate divided by systolic blood pressure. In the obstetric population, SI of ≥ 0.9 is associated with maternal adverse outcomes. Our primary aim was to investigate the association between SI and post-spinal hypotension in non-elective cesarean section.MethodsIn this prospective, observational study, term parturient of ASA physical status II, and urgency categories 2 and 3, undergoing non-elective cesarean section with spinal anesthesia were enrolled. We performed univariable and multivariable logistic regression to explore the association between baseline SI (categorized as < 0.9 and ≥ 0.9) and hypotension after spinal anesthesia. The diagnostic ability of the baseline SI to predict post-spinal hypotension was assessed using ROC (receiver operating characteristics) curves.ResultsThree hundred forty-two parturient were recruited, and among them, 335 were analyzed. One hundred fifty-five (46.27%) parturients developed post-spinal hypotension, and 114 (34.03%) reported post-delivery hypotension. Preoperative SI (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 2.77; 95% CI, 1.15–6.66; p = 0.023) and thoracic sensory block height > 4 (AOR, 2.33; 95%CI, 1.14–4.76; p = 0.020) were associated with post-spinal hypotension. Preoperative SI (AOR, 4.34; 95%CI, 1.72–10.94; p = 0.002) and anxiety (AOR,1.22; 95%CI, 1.06–1.40; p = 0.004) were associated with post-delivery hypotension. Area under the ROC curve for SI alone in predicting hypotension before and after delivery was 0.53 (95%CI 0.49–0.57) and 0.56 (95%CI 0.51–0.60) respectively. However, the model performance as reflected by ROC curve for the multivariable logistic regression analysis was 0.623 for post-spinal hypotension and 0.679 for post-delivery hypotension, respectively.ConclusionIn parturients undergoing non-elective cesarean section, baseline SI ≥ 0.9 was associated with post-spinal and post-delivery hypotension. While the SI alone showed limited predictive power for post-spinal and post-delivery hypotension, integrating it with other risk factors improved the model's predictive ability.Trial registrationRegistration number: NCT04692870. Date of registration: 05/01/2021. Website: https://clinicaltrials.gov.

Fear of Childbirth Impairs Breastfeeding Success Independent of Mode of Birth.

Background: The good qualities of breastfeeding are well known. The aim of this study was to closely examine the impact of specific maternal, prenatal, obstetric, and early neonatal factors on the success of breastfeeding. Materials and Methods: We used data from the Kuopio Birth Cohort study and analyzed 2,521 online questionnaires, which were answered by women 1 year after giving birth. Breastfeeding variables were divided into successful breastfeeding (breastfeeding exclusively with one's own breast milk ≥4 months or breastfeeding with formula ≥6 months) and poor breastfeeding (breastfeeding exclusively with one's own milk <4 months and duration of all breastfeeding <6 months) for univariate and multivariable analyses. Results: In this study, 97.8% (N = 2,466) reported breastfeeding their newborns for ≥1 postnatal week, and 75.2% (N = 1,896) breastfed newborns for ≥6 months. The rate of breastfeeding for ≥6 months increased from 71.3% to 84.7% between 2013 and 2020. In the multivariable analysis, poor breastfeeding success was associated most significantly with smoking during pregnancy (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 4.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.75-7.81), twin pregnancy (aOR 4.13; 95% CI: 2.10-8.15), maternal obesity (body mass index > 35) (aOR 3.27; 95% CI: 2.15-4.99), fear of childbirth (aOR 2.80; 95% CI: 1.89-4.13), and birth during the period of 2013-2014 (aOR 2.94; 95% CI: 2.08-4.14) or 2015-2016 (aOR 2.62; 95% CI: 1.85-3.70). Other significant factors related to poor success were younger maternal age, nonmarried family relationships, passive or quitting smoking before or in the first trimester, any hypertensive disorder during pregnancy, birth by nonelective cesarean, and lowest or highest quartiles of birth weight. Conclusions: Mother's fear of childbirth is strongly associated with the poor breastfeeding success even after controlling for mode of birth.

O58 - Early Breastfeeding Outcomes of Australian Women who Birth by Elective and Non-Elective Caesarean Section

O58 - Early Breastfeeding Outcomes of Australian Women who Birth by Elective and Non-Elective Caesarean Section

Factors Affecting Elective and Non-elective Cesarean Sections: A Multinomial Regression Analysis Using Robson's Classification in a Southeast European Country.

Albania, a middle-income Southeast European country, is experiencing an increase in cesarean section rates. This study aims to analyze cesarean section practices in Albania using the Robson classification to identify patterns and provide insights into elective and non-elective cesarean trends. This retrospective cohort study was conducted at the University Hospital of Obstetrics and Gynecology "Koco Gliozheni" in Albania, a leading tertiary hospital, from January to May 2023, involving 5,315 consecutive women who delivered during this period, including both live births and stillbirths, with a gestational age minimum of 28 weeks to align with standards of viability. We defined a function to systematically evaluate each case based on multiple criteria: parity, fetal presentation, onset of labor, previous deliveries, number of fetuses, and gestational age according to the Robson classification. Multinomial multiple regression was used to estimate the relationship between each of the above-mentioned variables and the likelihood of each type of cesarean delivery compared to normal births. The participants' mean age was 28.2 years (59.6% <30 years vs. 40.4% ≥30 years), while gestational age varied (12.1% before 37 weeks, the majority (72.3%) between 37 and 40 weeks, and 15.6% > 40 weeks). In elective cesarean sections, maternal age (odds ratio (OR) = 1.06) and gestational age (OR = 1.13) were associated with increased odds, with women with previous cesarean deliveries showing significantly higher odds (OR = 20.6), breech position (OR = 15.7), and multiple pregnancies elevating odds (OR = 7.3), whereas in non-elective cesarean sections, similar associations were observed with slightly different odds ratios which were maternal age (OR = 1.07), gestational age (OR = 1.16), previous cesarean delivery (OR = 6.3), breech position (OR = 8.5), and multiple pregnancies (OR = 5.1). Significant disparities in cesarean section rates were observed across various groups, with rates ranging from as low as 0.74% in Group 1 to as high as 89.24% in Group 5, and notable contributions from Group 2 with a rate of 69.95% and Group 6 with a rate of 81.29%. In conclusion, this study emphasizes the significance of factors such as maternal age, gestational age, previous cesarean deliveries, fetal presentation, number of fetuses, and multiple pregnancies in impacting the rates of elective, non-elective, and overall cesarean sections in Albania, highlighting the need for targeted strategies to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.

Nonelective cesarean section is associated with the prevalence of asthma among Mexican children who attended childcare centers.

The cesarean section (CS) mode of delivery can influence the prevalence of bronchial asthma (BA), allergic rhinitis (AR), or atopic dermatitis (AD) by promoting modifications in the infantile microbiome. To analyze the prevalence of asthma in children who were born through CS and attended childcare centers. The data were obtained through an online survey that was answered anonymously by one of the parents; the survey inquired about the route of delivery of the child and the prevalence of BA, AR, and AD. A total of 525 children were included. The frequency of births by vaginal, elective CS, or nonelective CS was 34.1%, 37.9%, and 28.0%, respectively, and the prevalence of BA, AR, and AD was 4.8%, 19.8%, and 12.4%, respectively. Multivariate analyses identified nonelective CS as a factor associated with the prevalence of BA (odds ratio: 3.51, P = 0.026). Our study shows that being born through nonelective CS can increase the probability of BA in children who attended daycare centers.

Australian Women's Experiences of Establishing Breastfeeding after Caesarean Birth.

Breastfeeding exclusivity and duration rates are lower after caesarean birth, yet the factors contributing to these are not well understood. This mixed-methods study used an anonymous online questionnaire to examine the facilitators and barriers to establishing breastfeeding as identified by Australian women after a caesarean birth. Quantitative data were reported using descriptive statistics, and multivariable models were used to determine the factors associated with breastfeeding outcomes including the timing of breastfeeding initiation, birth experience, and commercial infant formula use. Qualitative data were analysed using an inductive thematic analysis. Data were obtained for N = 961 women, of which <50% reported skin-to-skin contact during breastfeeding initiation. The barriers to breastfeeding included aspects of clinical care and reduced mobility, while unrushed care, partner support, and physical help with picking up the baby were helpful. Following a non-elective caesarean birth, women had half the odds of early breastfeeding initiation (OR = 0.50; 95% CI: 0.36, 0.68; p ≤ 0.001) and 10 times the odds to report a negative birth experience (OR = 10.2; 95% CI: 6.88, 15.43; p < 0.001). Commercial milk formula use was higher in primiparous women (OR = 2.16; 95% CI: 1.60, 2.91; p < 0.001) and in those that birthed in a private hospital (OR = 1.67; 95% CI: 1.25, 2.32; p = 0.001). Pain and reduced mobility, as well as conflicting and rushed care, negatively impacted breastfeeding after a caesarean birth, while delayed breastfeeding initiation, higher pain ratings, and negative birth experiences were more common for women that birthed by non-elective caesarean. This study adds valuable insights into the physical, emotional, and clinical care needs of women in establishing breastfeeding after a surgical birth. Clinical staffing and care should be modified to include full access to partner support to meet the specific needs of breastfeeding women after a caesarean birth.

Neonatal outcomes in term and preterm infants following adjunctive azithromycin antibiotic prophylaxis for non-elective cesarean delivery

Objective It is currently unknown whether adjunctive azithromycin prophylaxis at the time of non-elective cesarean has differential effects on neonatal outcomes in the context of prematurity. The objective of this study was to compare whether neonatal outcomes differ in term and preterm infants exposed to adjunctive azithromycin prophylaxis before non-elective cesarean delivery. Study Design A planned secondary analysis of a multi-center randomized controlled trial that enrolled women with singleton pregnancies ≥24 weeks gestation undergoing non-elective cesarean delivery (during labor or ≥4 h after membrane rupture). Women received standard antibiotic prophylaxis and were randomized to either adjunctive azithromycin (500 mg) or placebo. The primary composite outcome was neonatal death, suspected or confirmed neonatal sepsis, and serious neonatal morbidities (NEC, PVL, IVH, BPD). Secondary outcomes included NICU admission, neonatal readmission, culture positive infections and prevalence of resistant organisms. Odds ratios (OR) for the effect of azithromycin versus placebo were compared between gestational age strata (preterm [less than 37 weeks] versus term [37 weeks or greater]). Tests of interaction examined homogeneity of treatment effect with gestational age. Results The analysis includes 2,013 infants, 226 preterm (11.2%) and 1,787 term. Mean gestational ages were 34 and 39.5 weeks, respectively. Within term and preterm strata, maternal and delivery characteristics were similar between the azithromycin and placebo groups. There was no difference in the odds of composite neonatal outcome between those exposed to azithromycin versus placebo in preterm neonates (OR 0.82, 95% CI 0.48-1.41) and in term neonates (OR 1.06, 95% CI 0.77-1.46), with no difference between gestational age strata (p = 0.42). Analysis of secondary outcomes also revealed no differences in treatment effects within or between gestational age strata. Conclusion Exposure to adjunctive azithromycin antibiotic prophylaxis for non-elective cesarean delivery does not increase neonatal morbidity or mortality in term or preterm infants. Clinical Trial Registration https://clinicaltrials.gov, NCT 01235546

Delayed umbilical cord clamping in elective and nonelective term Cesarean delivery

BackgroundDelayed cord clamping (DCC) is recommended for preterm and term neonates, regardless of delivery mode. After impression of increased maternal blood loss following DCC implementation during Cesarean delivery (CD) concerns arose about maternal safety, particularly in term CDs. Materials and methodsWe conducted a retrospective cohort study by reviewing birth records from our tertiary hospital in Kuopio, Finland including 914 women with singleton term CD and recorded estimated blood loss. Early cord clamping (ECC) occurred from January 2016 to December 2019, while DCC (30–60 s) from January 2020 to December 2020. We evaluated maternal and neonatal outcomes for ECC vs. DCC and assessed severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) (≥1500 ml) and its potential clinical risk factors. ResultsIn total, 914 women were included (DCC N = 152; ECC N = 762). Estimated mean maternal blood loss showed no significant difference between DCC and ECC groups (697 ml vs. 750 ml, p < 0.96). Severe PPH was less frequent in the DCC group (4.6% vs. 10.5 %, p < 0.024). Neonatal outcomes were similar between groups. Multivariable analysis revealed that women with placenta previa (OR 5.63, p < 0.001), macrosomic neonate (OR 2.75, p < 0.001), and intrapartum infection (OR 2.00, p < 0.057) had an increased risk for severe PPH. Earlier CD was associated with less severe PPH (OR 0.36, p < 0.001). ConclusionsDCC (30–60 s) during term CD did not increase maternal blood loss in singleton pregnancies and demonstrated no short-term adverse effects on neonates. Our findings support the general practice of DCC during both elective and nonelective term CD.

Uptake of postplacental intrauterine device placement at cesarean delivery

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of intrauterine device placement at cesarean delivery as a contraceptive method. However, national-level use and outcomes of a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery are currently understudied in the United States. This study aimed to examine the trends, characteristics, and outcomes of patients who received a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery. This retrospective cohort study used the National Inpatient Sample. The study cohort included patients who underwent cesarean delivery from October 2015 to December 2018. The exclusion criteria included hemorrhage, chorioamnionitis, uterine anomaly, hysterectomy, and permanent surgical sterilization. Eligible cases were grouped on the basis of the use of a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery. The primary outcome measures were temporal trends and characteristics associated with the use of a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery, assessed using the generalized estimating equation model in multivariable analysis. The secondary outcome measure was perioperative morbidity (leukocytosis, endometritis, myometritis, and sepsis). Propensity score matching was used to balance the baseline characteristics. Among 2,983,978 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 10,145 patients (0.3%) received a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery. The use of a postplacental intrauterine device increased from 0.1% in the fourth quarter of 2015 to 0.6% in the fourth quarter of 2018 (P<.001). In a multivariable analysis, the use of a postplacental intrauterine device increased by 14% every quarter-year (adjusted odds ratio, 1.14; 95% confidence interval, 1.13-1.15). In addition, (1) patient characteristics of young age, non-White race, obesity, tobacco use, lowest quartile median household income, and insured with Medicaid; (2) hospital characteristics of large bed capacity and urban teaching setting in Northeast region; and (3) pregnancy characteristics of early gestational age at cesarean delivery, hypertensive disease, previous cesarean delivery, multifetal pregnancy, grand multiparity, placenta previa, and nonelective cesarean delivery represented the independent characteristics associated with the use of a postplacental intrauterine device (all P<.05). A regression tree model identified 35 discrete patterns of the use of a postplacental intrauterine device based on 8 factors (time, race or ethnicity, primary expected payer, obesity, hospital bed capacity, hospital teaching status, hospital region, and previous cesarean delivery). There were 9 patterns, representing 8.8% of the study population, exhibiting a use rate of ≥1.0%, whereas there were 7 patterns, representing 16.0% of the study population, exhibiting no use of a postplacental intrauterine device (absolute rate difference from the highest group to the lowest group, 4.7%). In a propensity score-matched model, postplacental intrauterine device placement at cesarean delivery was not associated with increased risk of measured morbidity (any, 1.8% vs 1.7%; odds ratio, 1.06; 95% confidence interval, 0.66-1.69; P=.812), including postpartum endometritis (1.2% vs 1.0%; odds ratio, 1.19; 95% confidence interval, 0.67-2.14; P=.554). The use of a postplacental intrauterine device at cesarean delivery increased significantly in recent years in the United States.

Postoperative infections after non-elective cesarean section – a retrospective cohort study of prevalence and risk factors at a single center in Denmark administering prophylactic antibiotics after cord clamping

BackgroundMothers giving birth by non-elective cesarean section have considerably higher risk of developing postoperative infection, than mothers giving birth by elective cesarean section. Meta-analyses have shown that the risk of infection is reduced when administering antibiotics at least 30 min prior to skin incision rather than after cord clamping. If given prior to incision, antibiotics are present in the neonatal bloodstream for up to 24 h after delivery, with early exposure to antibiotics potentially disturbing development of the gut microbiome. We aimed to retrospectively assess the prevalence of postoperative infection after non-elective cesarean section at a single labor ward administering antibiotics after cord clamping, additionally investigating risk factors for developing postoperative infections.MethodsIn this retrospective cohort study, we included a total of 2,725 women giving birth by non-elective cesarean section in 2010–2017 with a review of records for prenatal risk factors, labor management, and perinatal outcomes. The primary outcomes were a main composite infection of development of either endometritis, surgical-site infection, or sepsis in conjunction with a relevant antibiotic prescription. Secondary outcomes included infection of unknown focus, mastitis, urinary tract infection, and pneumonia.ResultsA total of 88 patients developed a main composite infection (3.2%). These infections subdivide into endometritis (n = 37/2725, 1.4%), surgical-site infection (n = 35/2725, 1.3%) and sepsis (n = 15/2725, 0.6%). We found a high body mass index (aOR = 3.38, 95%CI 1.93–5.92) and intrapartum fever (aOR = 2.26, 95%CI 1.22–4.59) to be independent risk-factors for developing postoperative infection after non-elective cesarean section. Furthermore, we found delivery by a more expedient emergency grade 2 cesarean section (aOR = 0.61 95%CI 0.37–0.998) compared to grade 3 to be a protective factor for developing postoperative infection after non-elective cesarean section.ConclusionIn a labor ward administering antibiotics after cord clamping at non-elective cesarean births, we find a low prevalence of main composite infections when compared to estimates from meta-analyses on the topic. We conclude that administration of prophylactic antibiotics after cord clamping appears to result in acceptable rates of postoperative infection and avoids transplacental-transmission of antibiotics to the infant.

Planned mode of birth after previous cesarean section and risk of undergoing pelvic floor surgery: A Scottish population-based record linkage cohort study.

The global rise in cesarean sections has led to increasing numbers of pregnant women with a history of previous cesarean section. Policy in many high-income settings supports offering these women a choice between planned elective repeat cesarean section (ERCS) or planned vaginal birth after previous cesarean (VBAC), in the absence of contraindications to VBAC. Despite the potential for this choice to affect women's subsequent risk of experiencing pelvic floor disorders, evidence on the associated effects to fully counsel women is lacking. This study investigated the association between planned mode of birth after previous cesarean section and the woman's subsequent risk of undergoing pelvic floor surgery. A population-based cohort study of 47,414 singleton term births in Scotland between 1983 to 1996 to women with 1 or more previous cesarean sections was conducted using linked Scottish national routine datasets. Cox regression was used to investigate the association between planned as well as actual mode of birth and women's subsequent risk of having any pelvic floor surgery and specific types of pelvic floor surgery adjusted for sociodemographic, maternal medical, and obstetric-related factors. Over a median of 22.1 years of follow-up, 1,159 (2.44%) of the study population had pelvic floor surgery. The crude incidence rate of any pelvic floor surgery per 1,000 person-years was 1.35, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.27 to 1.43 in the overall study population, 1.75, 95% CI 1.64 to 1.86 in the planned VBAC group and 0.66, 95% CI 0.57 to 0.75 in the ERCS group. Planned VBAC compared to ERCS was associated with a greater than 2-fold increased risk of the woman undergoing any pelvic floor surgery (adjusted hazard ratio [aHR] 2.38, 95% CI 2.03 to 2.80, p < 0.001) and a 2- to 3-fold increased risk of the woman having surgery for pelvic organ prolapse or urinary incontinence (aHR 3.17, 95% CI 2.47 to 4.09, p < 0.001 and aHR 2.26, 95% CI 1.79 to 2.84, p < 0.001, respectively). Analysis by actual mode of birth showed these increased risks were only apparent in the women who actually had a VBAC, with the women who needed an in-labor non-elective repeat cesarean section having a comparable risk of pelvic floor surgery to those who had an ERCS. The main limitation of this study is the potential for misclassification bias. This study suggests that among women with previous cesarean section giving birth to a singleton at term, planned VBAC compared to ERCS is associated with an increased risk of the woman subsequently undergoing pelvic floor surgery including surgery for pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. However, these risks appear to be only apparent in women who actually give birth vaginally as planned, highlighting the role of vaginal birth rather than labor in pelvic floor dysfunction requiring surgery. The findings provide useful additional information to counsel women with previous cesarean section about the risks and benefits associated with their future birth choices.

Effect of glycopyrrolate on vasopressor requirements for non-elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

BackgroundThe study aimed to investigate whether prophylactic use of glycopyrrolate decreases the vasopressor requirements to prevent hypotension following spinal anesthesia during non-elective cesarean section.MethodIn this double-blind randomized clinical trial, 258 patients undergoing non-elective cesarean section were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive intravenous 0.2 mg glycopyrrolate or normal saline (placebo) before spinal anesthesia. The primary outcome was phenylephrine equivalent needed intraoperatively. Secondary outcomes included incidences of maternal hypotension, reactive hypertension, bradycardia, need for atropine, tachycardia, intraoperative nausea/vomiting, shivering, pruritus, dry mouth, dizziness; neonatal APGAR score at 1 min and 5 min, neonatal resuscitation needed, NICU admission and neonatal death.ResultsThree patients withdrew from the study due to failed spinal anesthesia. 128 patients in the glycopyrrolate group and 127 patients in the placebo group were analyzed. The mean phenylephrine equivalent needed was 1108.96 μg in the glycopyrrolate group and 1103.64 μg in the placebo group (mean difference, 5.32 μg [95% CI − 67.97 to 78.62]; P = 0.88). Hypotension occurred in 38 patients (30%) in the glycopyrrolate group as compared with 49 patients (39%) in the placebo group (P = 0.13). Tachycardia was reported in 70% of the participants in the glycopyrrolate group and 57% of those in the placebo group (P = 0.04). No statistically significant difference was noted in hypotensive episodes > 1, reactive hypertension, bradycardia, need for atropine, nausea, vomiting, shivering, and dry mouth between the two groups. Neonatal outcomes were similar in the two groups.ConclusionProphylactic use of glycopyrrolate does not decrease the requirements of vasopressor to prevent hypotension in non-elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia.Trial registrationRegistration number: NCT04401345. Date of registration: 26/05/2020. Website: https://clinicaltrials.gov

Validation of translated Obstetric Quality of Recovery (ObsQoR-10A) score after nonelective cesarean delivery (CD) in an Arabic-speaking population.

The ObsQoR-11 is a validated scale that assesses recovery after cesarean delivery (CD). This observational study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of its Arabic version. The original ObsQoR-11 was translated into an Arabic version (ObsQoR-10A). All participants completed the ObsQoR-10A at 24 h and 48 h postoperatively after CD. Validity, reliability, responsiveness, and feasibility were assessed. The ObsQoR-10A correlated with Global Health Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) at 24 h (R = 0.68, 95% CI: 0.56-0.80, P < 0.001) and at 48 h (R = 0.66, 95% CI: 0.54-0.78, P < 0.001) and differentiated between good and poor recovery (median scores at 24 h 88 vs. 71, P < 0.001; at 48 h 95.5 vs. 70, P < 0.001). ObsQoR-10A correlated with hospital length of stay at 24 h (R = -0.21, 95% CI: -0.40 to -0.02, P = 0.03) and at 48 h (R = -0.21, 95% CI: -0.40 to -0.03, P = 0.02); gestational age at 24 h (R = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.03-0.40, P = 0.02); change in hemoglobin at 24 h (R = -0.30, 95% CI: 0.51 to -0.10, P < 0.01); and total opioids at 48 h (R = -0.45, 95% CI: -0.62 to -0.27, P < 0.001). There was a significant difference between 24 h and 48 h postoperative ObsQoR-10A scores (median difference: -18; P < 0.001 which shows responsiveness). Other key measures included a Cronbach's alpha of 0.87, split-half 0.75, and intra-class correlation >0.62 with no floor or ceiling effects. Median (IQR) completion time was 3 (3-5) and 3 (2.5-3.5) minutes at 24 h and 48 h. ObsQoR-10A is a valid, reliable, responsive, and a clinically feasible tool in an Arabic-speaking obstetric population.

Child-Mother Index: a new risk factor for selected adverse maternal birth outcomes

Over decades, obstetricians have evaluated a range of risk factors to improve the prediction of adverse birth outcomes. This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of the Child-Mother Index as a risk factor indicator for selected adverse maternal birth outcomes. We assessed the Child-Mother Index by multinomial regression models using register-based data containing all singleton births in Denmark in 2009 with a gestational age between 37+0 and 41+6 weeks. The Child-Mother Index is defined as the weight of the newborn divided by the squared maternal height. Data from 47,007 births were included. Both the Child-Mother Index mean and Child-Mother Index median were 12.6 hg/m2 (range, 4.8-22.4). In the multivariable model, the relative risk ratios for Child-Mother Index above 14.1 hg/m2 were 2.2 (95% confidence interval, 1.6-3.1) for third- and fourth-degree perineal tears, 2.0 (1.6-2.5) for nonelective cesarean delivery, and 1.0 (0.8-1.3) for instrumental procedures. Equivalent figures for a Child-Mother Index below 11.2 hg/m2 were 0.6 (0.4-1.0), 1.0 (0.8-1.2), and 0.7 (0.6-0.9), respectively.By comparing a multivariable model with the Child-Mother Index included with a model without the Child-Mother Index included using a likelihood ratio test, a statistically significant difference was found in favor of the Child-Mother Index inclusion (P<.001). The Child-Mother Index constitutes a potential useful risk factor indicator for statistical analyses on data after birth. The value of the Child-Mother Index based on the estimated fetal weight before birth deserves evaluation.

Obstetric and perinatal outcomes in parturients with active SARS-CoV-2 infection during labor and delivery: a retrospective cohort study

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic is an ongoing global healthcare crisis that negatively affects pregnant women. Although patients with an acute infection during pregnancy have been widely studied, information regarding labor and delivery while infected is sparse. The aim of the study was to ascertain maternal, obstetrical, and perinatal outcomes of women who gave birth while infected with SARS-CoV-2.MethodsPatients diagnosed with COVID-19 during pregnancy at a tertiary medical center in 4/20–2/21 were identified by a retrospective database search. Those with an active intrapartum SARS-CoV-2 infection were compared with those who recovered at least 10 days before labor and delivery.ResultsOf the 176 women included in the study, 84 had a SARS-CoV-2 infection at the time of delivery and 92 had recovered from the infection. There was no statistically significant between-group difference in mean gestational age at delivery (39 weeks for both, p = 0.71) and overall rate of cesarean delivery (26.2% vs 17.4%, respectively, p = 0.35) or non-elective cesarean delivery (10.71% vs 4.34%, respectively, p = 0.48). In the active-infection group, the rate of severe disease was 2.4%, and of critical disease (with intensive care unit admission, mechanical ventilation, and ECMO), 3.6%, compared to zero for both in the recovered group. No differences were found between the groups in adverse perinatal outcomes.ConclusionDelivery is safe and feasible in women with active SARS-CoV-2 infection. Nevertheless, we found a non-significant trend for more severe disease and for cesarean delivery and urgent cesarean delivery (for COVID-19-related indications) in women with an intrapartum SARS-CoV-2 infection.

Adjunctive azithromycin prophylaxis protects women from uterine cesarean scar defect: A randomized controlled trial.

Cesarean scar defect (CSD) is a long-term outcome of cesarean section (CS) and associated with numerous gynecological and obstetric problems. Previous studies indicate that infection may be a risk factor for CSD. Adjunctive azithromycin was shown to reduce the risk of postoperative infection in patients undergoing non-elective primary cesarean delivery in labor or after the rupture of membranes compared with standard antibiotic prophylaxis. This study investigated the protective effect of adjunctive azithromycin in combination with single-dose cephalosporin against CSD in women undergoing non-elective cesarean delivery. A randomized, double-blind, controlled clinical trial was conducted in a University hospital in Shanghai, China. A total of 242 women who underwent their first non-elective CS were randomly assigned to receive 1500 mg cefuroxime sodium plus 500 mg intravenous azithromycin (n=121; experimental group) or 1500 mg cefuroxime sodium plus a placebo (n=121; placebo group). The primary outcome was CSD prevalence, as determined by transvaginal ultrasound and saline infusion sonohysterography within 6months of delivery. Secondary outcomes were changes in infectious indicators (eg hypersensitive C-reactive protein and procalcitonin), postoperative morbidity, and use of postoperative antibiotics. We also examined the operative procedure, pathogenic microorganism cultures, and fetal outcomes. Outcomes were compared between groups with the chi-squared test, Fisher's exact test, or Student's t test. Between May 2018 and May 2021, 121 women were randomized to each arm. Because the sonographic follow up was disrupted by the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and strict management policies, we merged the follow-up time points (6 weeks and 6months) into a single time period (6 weeks to 6months); 104 and 108 women in the experimental and placebo groups, respectively, completed the first sonographic follow up. CSD was diagnosed by sonography in 34/104 (32.7%) and 50/108 (46.3%) patients in the experimental and placebo groups, respectively (relative risk 0.71, 95% confidence interval 0.50-0.99; p=0.043). Characteristics of CSD and short-term infection outcomes did not differ between groups. A single dose of intravenous 500 mg azithromycin adjunctive to single-dose cefuroxime prophylaxis significantly reduced the incidence of CSD in women undergoing non-elective CS.

Overall Vertical Transmission of Hepatitis C Virus, Transmission Net of Clearance, and Timing of Transmission.

It is widely accepted that the risk of hepatitis C virus (HCV) vertical transmission (VT) is 5%-6% in monoinfected women, and that 25%-40% of HCV infection clears spontaneously within 5 years. However, there is no consensus on how VT rates should be estimated, and there is a lack of information on VT rates "net" of clearance. We reanalyzed data on 1749 children in 3 prospective cohorts to obtain coherent estimates of overall VT rate and VT rates net of clearance at different ages. Clearance rates were used to impute the proportion of uninfected children who had been infected and then cleared before testing negative. The proportion of transmission early in utero, late in utero, and at delivery was estimated from data on the proportion of HCV RNA positive within 3 days of birth, and differences between elective cesarean and nonelective cesarean deliveries. Overall VT rates were 7.2% (95% credible interval [CrI], 5.6%-8.9%) in mothers who were human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) negative and 12.1% (95% CrI, 8.6%-16.8%) in HIV-coinfected women. The corresponding rates net of clearance at 5 years were 2.4% (95% CrI, 1.1%-4.1%), and 4.1% (95% CrI, 1.7%-7.3%). We estimated that 24.8% (95% CrI, 12.1%-40.8%) of infections occur early in utero, 66.0% (95% CrI, 42.5%-83.3%) later in utero, and 9.3% (95% CrI, 0.5%-30.6%) during delivery. Overall VT rates are about 24% higher than previously assumed, but the risk of infection persisting beyond age 5 years is about 38% lower. The results can inform design of trials of interventions to prevent or treat pediatric HCV infection, and strategies to manage children exposed in utero.

Science, Medicine, and the Anesthesiologist

Science, Medicine, and the Anesthesiologist

Strategies to Lower NTSV Cesarean Birth Rates - An Evidence Based Practice Project

Of the annual 4.1 million births in the United States, more than 1.3 million are via cesarean. Research shows that “Failure to progress in labor” (i.e., labor dystocia) is the leading cause of post labor non-elective primary cesarean delivery. It directly or indirectly accounts for approximately 60% of all cesarean deliveries (Spong, C.Y. et al., 2012). In comparing statistics, it was evident that NRHS 2018 & 2019 average NTSV cesarean birth rate of 27.4% was notably higher than the National & State averages, (25.8% & 24.6% respectively), and above the proposed Healthy People 2020 Benchmark of 23.9%. It also became very evident that the top driver of NHRS’ NTSV cesarean births (September 2019 – August 2020) was Labor Induction, and specifically, Cytotec / Cervidil to Pitocin Inductions. Monthly case reviews further revealed a consistency between these labor inductions and the diagnosis of labor dystocia (arrested progress). This diagnosis is currently the documented leading indication for NRHS’ NTSV cesarean births.

Carbetocin Compared With Oxytocin in Nonelective Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review, Meta-analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis of Randomized-controlled Trials

(Can J Anesth. 2020;67:1524–1534) Uterotonic agents, such as oxytocin and carbetocin, are used in the management of uterine atony, a major cause of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). While oxytocin and carbetocin both have fast onset of action, oxytocin has a short duration of action, requiring immediate intravenous (IV) infusion during the perioperative period. In contrast, carbetocin has a longer duration with effects lasting for 60 minutes after onset. Previous literature suggests that carbetocin may be as effective as oxytocin, and a recent study showed that the need for additional uterotonics was reduced by 53% with carbetocin versus oxytocin for elective cesarean delivery (CD). However, it remains unclear how these 2 uterotonics compare in pregnant women undergoing nonelective CD. The aim of this study was to compare the efficacy of carbetocin with oxytocin in women undergoing nonelective CD.