Planned Cesarean Delivery Research Articles

Nulliparous Individuals with Class III Obesity: Adverse Outcomes with Labor versus Planned Cesarean Delivery.

Individuals with class III obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 40 kg/m2) are at increased risk of cesarean delivery (CD) and peripartum complications. We ascertained compositive neonatal and maternal adverse outcomes among individuals with class III obesity who labored versus had planned CD. This was a retrospective cohort study from 2016 to 2021 using the National Vital Statistics System database. Nulliparous individuals with class III obesity prepregnancy were included if they had singleton, nonanomalous pregnancies and delivered at 37 to 41 weeks of gestation. Individuals were excluded if they had hypertensive disorders or diabetes. The primary outcome was a composite neonatal adverse outcome (CNAO), consisting of Apgar score less than 5 at 5 minutes, assisted ventilation > 6 hours, neonatal seizure, or neonatal death. The secondary outcome was a composite maternal adverse outcome (CMAO) that included admission to the intensive care unit, maternal transfusion, uterine rupture, or unplanned hysterectomy. A sensitivity analysis using a CMAO without transfusion was performed. A multivariable Poisson regression model was performed to calculate adjusted relative risks (aRRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Of 192,298 individuals who met inclusion criteria, 169,676 (88.2%) labored and 22,622 (11.8%) had a planned CD. Compared with neonates delivered by planned CD, the risk of CNAO was significantly lower in those who delivered after labor (aRR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.71-0.87). There was no significant difference in the risk of CMAO between groups (aRR: 1.11, 95% CI: 0.87-1.41). However, the risk of CMAO without transfusion was lower in individuals who labored (aRR: 0.57, 95% CI: 0.40-0.83). In nulliparous individuals with class III obesity, the risk of CNAO and of CMAO without transfusion were significantly lower in individuals who labored, versus those who had a planned CD. · Labor in class III obesity: 21% fewer adverse neonatal outcomes.. · Class III obesity: 43% less maternal morbidity with labor.. · Labor in nulliparous individuals with class III obesity is safe..

A Validated Calculator to Estimate Risk of Chorioamnionitis in Laboring and Induced Patients at Term.

Chorioamnionitis is associated with neonatal morbidity and infection-related mortality, but our ability to predict intrapartum infection is limited. We sought to derive and validate a prediction model for chorioamnionitis among patients presenting to labor and delivery at term. This was a planned secondary analysis of a large cohort study from 2014 through 2018 at an academic tertiary care center. To derive a prediction model for chorioamnionitis, we limited our analysis to full-term (≥37 weeks) patients with a singleton gestation undergoing labor induction and presenting in labor. Both nulliparous and multiparous patients were included. Patients with a planned cesarean delivery, fever on admission, or missing data were excluded. The model was derived using multivariable logistic regression. Refinement of the prediction model with internal calibration was performed. External validation was performed utilizing a publicly available database (Consortium on Safe Labor) and applying the same inclusion and exclusion criteria. The discriminative power of each model was assessed using a bootstrap, bias-corrected area under the curve. The chorioamnionitis rates in the derivation and external validation groups were: 5% (1,005/19,966) and 5.8% (n = 3,005/52,171), respectively. In multivariable modeling, maternal age, nulliparity, gestational age, smoking status, group B streptococcus colonization, hours ruptured, number of cervical exams, length of labor, epidural use, internal monitoring, and meconium were significantly associated with infection. A calculator was created and externally validated with an area under the curve of 0.82 (95% confidence interval, 0.81-0.82). External validity was further confirmed with a calibration intercept of 0.81. This is the first infection calculator created and validated for the prediction of developing chorioamnionitis in patients undergoing induction of labor at term. This calculator can be used to augment patient counseling and guide intrapartum infection surveillance in laboring patients.

Risk of postpartum hemorrhage according to the planned mode of delivery among twin pregnancies with previous cesarean delivery

IntroductionBoth twin pregnancies and previous cesarean delivery are situations with increased risk of failed vaginal delivery. Cesarean delivery after a trial of labor is associated with an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage Therefore, in twin pregnancies with a previous cesarean delivery, planned vaginal delivery could lead to an increased risk of postpartum hemorrhage due to an important rate of cesarean delivery after a trial of labor. Our objective was to evaluate the association between the planned mode of delivery and postpartum hemorrhage in women with twin pregnancies and a previous cesarean delivery. MethodsWe conducted a secondary analysis of the JUMODA French population-based prospective cohort study of twin pregnancies (n=8823). We included women with one previous cesarean and without contraindication to vaginal birth. The primary outcome was postpartum hemorrhage. ResultsAmong the 735 women included, 187 women (25.4%) had planned vaginal delivery and 548 (74.6%) had planned cesarean delivery. Among women with planned vaginal delivery, 125 (66.8%) had a successful vaginal delivery. The incidence of PPH was 8.2% in the planned cesarean group and 9.1% in the planned vaginal delivery group(p=0.709). After adjustment for confounders, the planned mode of delivery was not associated with the risk of postpartum hemorrhage (adjusted relative risk 0.94, 95% CI 0.56–1.60). There were only 2 uterine ruptures, both in the planned cesarean delivery group. ConclusionIn women with a twin pregnancy and a previous cesarean delivery, there is no overall association between the planned mode of delivery and the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.

Planned Induction of Labour Versus Planned Caesarean Delivery in Women with Severe Pre-eclampsia at Term—a Randomized Controlled Trial

Planned Induction of Labour Versus Planned Caesarean Delivery in Women with Severe Pre-eclampsia at Term—a Randomized Controlled Trial

Maternal Morbidity According to Mode of Delivery Among Pregnant Patients With Pulmonary Hypertension.

Patients with pulmonary hypertension have a high risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. It is unknown if a trial of labor carries a lower risk of morbidity in these patients compared to a planned cesarean delivery. The objective of this study was to examine the association of delivery mode with severe maternal morbidity events during delivery hospitalization among patients with pulmonary hypertension. This retrospective cohort study used the Premier inpatient administrative database. Patients delivering ≥25 weeks gestation from January 1, 2016, to September 30, 2020, and with pulmonary hypertension were included. The primary analysis compared intended vaginal delivery (ie, trial of labor) to intended cesarean delivery (intention to treat analysis). A sensitivity analysis was conducted comparing vaginal delivery to cesarean delivery (as treated analysis). The primary outcome was nontransfusion severe maternal morbidity during the delivery hospitalization. Secondary outcomes included blood transfusion (4 or more units) and readmission to the delivery hospital within 90 days from discharge from delivery hospitalization. The cohort consisted of 727 deliveries. In the primary analysis, there was no difference in nontransfusion morbidity between intended vaginal delivery and intended cesarean delivery groups (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.49-1.15). In secondary analyses, intended cesarean delivery was not associated with blood transfusion (aOR, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.34-1.50) or readmission within 90 days (aOR, 0.60; 95% CI, 0.32-1.14). In the sensitivity analysis, cesarean delivery was associated with a 3-fold higher risk of nontransfusion morbidity compared to vaginal delivery (aOR, 2.64; 95% CI, 1.54-3.93), a 3-fold higher risk of blood transfusion (aOR, 3.06; 95% CI, 1.17-7.99), and a 2-fold higher risk of readmission within 90 days (aOR, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.09-4.46) compared to vaginal delivery. Among pregnant patients with pulmonary hypertension, a trial of labor was not associated with a higher risk of morbidity compared to an intended cesarean delivery. One-third of patients who required an intrapartum cesarean delivery had a morbidity event, demonstrating the increased risk of adverse events in this group.

Quality of Recovery After Unplanned and Planned Cesarean Deliveries: A Prospective Observational Study Using the Obstetric Quality of Recovery-10 Tool.

There is a paucity of literature examining the differences between patient-reported outcome measures after planned and unplanned cesarean delivery using a validated quality of recovery tool. The Obstetric Quality of Recovery-10 (ObsQoR-10) scoring tool has been validated to quantify functional recovery after cesarean delivery. We aimed to use the ObsQoR-10 to compare the postoperative recovery characteristics of patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries. We conducted a prospective single-center observational study. Patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries under neuraxial anesthesia were asked to complete the ObsQoR-10 questionnaire 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week postpartum. We collected information on total in-hospital postoperative opioid consumption and patients´ perception of readiness for discharge at 24 and 48 hours postpartum. Additionally, patient characteristics were collected to assess their correlation with our findings. We included 112 patients (56 in each group). No statistical differences in ObsQoR-10 scores at 24 hours, 48 hours, and 1 week postpartum were observed between the planned and unplanned cesarean deliveries. Additionally, there was no difference between the groups in patients' perception of readiness for hospital discharge at 24 and 48 hours and opioid consumption in the first 2 days after surgery. Most patients in both groups did not think they would be ready for discharge at 24 hours postpartum. Analysis of the individual components of ObsQoR-10 at 24 hours showed a difference in the responses assessing the severity of shivering (higher in unplanned cesarean deliveries) and the ability to look after personal hygiene (lower in unplanned cesarean deliveries). As assessed by the ObsQoR-10, no significant difference in the quality of recovery was observed between patients undergoing planned and unplanned cesarean delivery.

Perinatal outcome of fetuses predicted to be large-for-gestational age on universal third-trimester ultrasound in non-diabetic pregnancy.

To describe the perinatal outcome of fetuses predicted to be large-for-gestational age (LGA) on universal third-trimester ultrasound in non-diabetic pregnancies of women attempting vaginal delivery. This was a prospective population-based cohort study of patients from a single tertiary maternity unit in the UK offering universal third-trimester ultrasound and practicing expectant management of suspected LGA until 41-42 weeks. All women with a singleton pregnancy and an estimated due date between January 2014 and September 2019 were included. Women delivering before 37 weeks, those having a planned Cesarean delivery, those with pre-existing or gestational diabetes, those with fetal abnormalities and those who did not undergo a third-trimester scan were excluded from the assessment of perinatal outcome of cases with LGA predicted on ultrasound after implementation of the universal scan period. Association of LGA on universal third-trimester ultrasound screening and perinatal adverse outcome was assessed, with the exposures of interest being estimated fetal weight (EFW) at the 90th -95th , > 95th and > 99th percentile. The reference group was composed of fetuses with EFW at the 30th -70th percentile. Analysis was performed using multivariate logistic regression. The evaluated adverse perinatal outcomes included a composite outcome of admission to neonatal intensive care unit, Apgar score < 7 at 5 min and arterial cord pH < 7.1 (CAO1) and a composite outcome of stillbirth, neonatal death and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (CAO2). Secondary maternal outcomes were induction of labor, mode of delivery, postpartum hemorrhage, shoulder dystocia and obstetric anal sphincter injury. Cases with EFW > 95th percentile on universal third-trimester scan were at increased risk of CAO1 (adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 2.18 (95% CI, 1.69-2.80)) and CAO2 (aOR, 2.58 (95% CI, 1.05-6.34)). Cases with EFW at the 90th -95th percentile had a less pronounced increase in the risk of CAO1 (aOR, 1.35 (95% CI, 1.02-1.78)) and were not at increased risk of CAO2. All pregnancies with a fetus predicted to be LGA were at increased risk of all of the evaluated secondary maternal outcomes except for obstetric anal sphincter injury. The risk of adverse maternal outcome was typically higher with increasing EFW. Post-hoc exploration of data suggested that shoulder dystocia had a limited contribution to composite adverse perinatal outcomes in LGA cases (population attributable fraction of 10.8% for CAO1 and 29.1% for CAO2). Cases with EFW > 95th percentile are at increased risk of severe adverse perinatal outcome, such as death and hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy. These findings should aid antenatal counseling regarding the associated risk and delivery options. © 2023 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

L’accouchement des femmes enceintes de jumeaux : les enseignements de l’étude nationale observationnelle prospective comparative JUMODA

ObjectivesTo summerize the results of the JUMODA study (JUmeaux MODe d’Accouchement) on the planned mode of delivery of twin pregnancy and the management of second twin delivery. MethodsJUMODA was a national observational prospective comparative study that took place between february 2014 and march 2015 in 176 french maternity units performing more than 1500 deliveries per year. Its main objectives were the comparison of neonatal and maternal morbidity according to the planned mode of delivery and the determination of the managements of second twin delivery associated with the best neonatal outcomes. To control for potential confounding factors and indication biases, statistical analyses comprized multivariate logistic regressions and matching on propensity scores. ResultsThe JUMODA study recruited 8823 women with twin delivery at or beyond 22 weeks of gestation. For twin pregnancies with a cephalic first twin at 32 weeks of gestation and beyond, severe neonatal morbidity was higher in the planned cesarean (150/2908 (5.2 %) than in the planned vaginal delivery group (199/8922 (2.2 %), aOR 1.56, 95 % CI 1.19-2.04). Increased neonatal morbidity in the planned cesarean delivery group was explained by higher severe morbidity in neonates born preterm (aOR 1.64, 95 % CI 1.13-2.39, for deliveries between 32+0 and 34+6 weeks of gestation, aOR 2.04, 95 % CI 1.22-3.41, for deliveries between 35+0 SA and 36+6 weeks of gestation) but not in neonates born at term (aOR 1.19, 95 % CI 0.58-2.44). In comparison with planned cesarean delivery, planned vaginal delivery was not associated with increased severe neonatal morbidity in case of breech presenting first twin after 32 weeks of gestation or with decreased survival witout severe neonatal morbidity in case of delivery before 32 weeks of gestation whatever the first twin presentation. In comparison with planned vaginal delivery, planned cesarean delivery was associated with increased severe maternal morbidity only in women aged 35 and higher. Delivery of non cephalic second twin was associated with similar severe neonatal morbidity rate than delivery of cephalic second twin. Finally, in case of cephalic second twin, internal version followed by total breech extraction was associated with less cesarean for the second twin but with higher severe neonatal morbidity in case of preterm birth in comparison with pushing efforts, ocytocin perfusion and artificial rupture of membranes. ConclusionsPlanned vaginal delivery is the planned mode of delivery to encourage for the majority of pregnant women with twins, whatever first twin presentation and gestational age at delivery. No management of cephalic second twin appears better than an other, its choice will rest on obstetrician preferences.

Effect of intrapartum epidural analgesia on rate of emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise: nationwide registry-based cohort study.

To determine the rate of emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise after epidural analgesia (EDA) compared with that after alternative analgesia or no analgesia, and to assess whether this rate is increased in pregnancies with reduced placental reserve. This was a nationwide registry-based cohort study of 629 951 singleton pregnancies delivered at 36 + 0 to 42 + 0 weeks of gestation that were recorded in the Dutch national birth registry between 2014 and 2018, including 120 426 cases that received EDA, 86 957 that received alternative analgesia and 422 568 that received no analgesia during labor. Pregnancies with congenital anomaly, chromosomal abnormality, fetal demise, planned Cesarean delivery, non-cephalic presentation at delivery and use of multiple forms of analgesia were excluded. The primary outcome was emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise. Secondary outcomes included delivery characteristics and neonatal outcome. Negative binomial regression analysis was stratified by parity and results are presented according to birth-weight centile, after adjusting for confounding. Among women who received EDA, 13.2% underwent emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise, compared with 4.1% of women who had no analgesia (relative risk (RR), 3.23 (95% CI, 3.16-3.31)) and 7.0% of women who received alternative analgesia (RR, 1.72 (95% CI, 1.67-1.77)). Independent of birth weight, the RR of presumed fetal compromise after EDA vs no analgesia was higher in parous women (adjusted RR (aRR), 2.15 (95% CI, 2.04-2.27)) compared with nulliparous women (RR, 1.88 (95% CI, 1.84-1.94)). Stratified for parity, the effect of EDA was modified significantly by birth-weight centile (interaction P-value, < 0.001 for nulliparous and 0.004 for parous women). The emergency delivery rate following EDA was highest in those with a birth weight < 5th centile (25.2% of nulliparous and 16.6% of parous women), falling with each increasing birth-weight centile category up to the 91st -95th centile (11.8% of nulliparous and 7.2% of parous women). Intrapartum EDA is associated with a higher risk of emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise compared with no analgesia and alternative analgesia, after adjusting for relevant confounding. The highest rate of emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise was observed at the lowest birth-weight centiles. RRs of emergency delivery for presumed fetal compromise after EDA were modestly but consistently modified by birth-weight centile, supporting the hypothesis that the adverse effects of EDA are exacerbated by reduced placental function. While EDA provides effective pain relief during labor, alternative strategies for pain management may be preferable in pregnancies with a high background risk of fetal compromise. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

A Sustainable Translational Sheep Model for Planned Cesarean Delivery of Contraction-Free Ewes

We evaluated whether the sheep constitutes a useful translational model to evaluate anatomical and surgical aspects of cesarean delivery (CD) from a human medical perspective with the aim of both maternal and neonatal well-being. Our hypothesis was that CD in contraction-free ewes is not associated with major complications. Primary endpoint was the transferability of anatomical conditions and surgical techniques of CD from the ewe to the human. Secondary endpoints were maternal and fetal survival, occurrence of retained fetal membranes, metritis, mastitis, or wound infections. Forty-eight Merino ewes were delivered by CD after 95% gestation (142–144 days). Both ewes and newborn lambs were cared for intensively after the delivery. Ovine uterine anatomy during CD appeared slightly different but comparable to the human uterus. Uterine incisions were mostly performed in the uterine horns, not in the uterine corpus. The ovine uterine wall is thinner than in humans. All ewes survived without any major complications. Seventy-seven (88.5%) out of 87 live-born lambs survived without any complications. The contraction-free ewe constitutes an appropriate and safe model to evaluate anatomical and surgical aspects of CD from a human medical perspective. We present a step-by-step manual for successfully planned cesarean delivery for sheep including the perioperative management illustrated with photographs and a five-minute video. With adequate planning and a reasonable number of staff, it is possible to safeguard both maternal and neonatal survival. This sustainable translational medicine model offers additional potential for the offspring to be used for further research studies (e.g., transgenerational inheritance research).

Evaluation of maternal and neonatal outcomes of emergency cesarean deliveries in cases of placenta previa uncomplicated with placenta acreata spectrum

Objective: The management and surgery of placenta previa describe a challenging process that requires experience. It is important to decide on the timing of planned cesarean section in women with placenta previa, taking into account the balance between possible maternal severe bleeding and possible neonatal morbidities.&#x0D; Material and methods: In the present study, the data of 349 singleton pregnant women with a diagnosis of placenta previa uncomplicated by placenta accreta spectrum were analyzed. Patients who underwent planned (68%, n=236) or emergency cesarean section (32%, n=113) were divided into two groups. In this study, maternal demographic and clinical information, surgical procedures and maternal/neonatal outcomes were studied.&#x0D; Results: The proportion of patients who underwent uterine compression suture and Bakri balloon was found to be significantly higher in the emergency cesarean section group compared to the planned cesarean deliveries group (p&lt;0.001). The operation time, hospital stay, urinary tract infection rate, decrease in hemoglobin and need for blood transfusion were found to be significantly higher in the emergency cesarean section group compared to the planned cesarean section group (p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, p&lt;0.001, respectively). In addition, a significant association was detected between emergency cesarean section and prematurity, low birth weight, low APGAR score, increased neonatal intensive care unit hospitalization and neonatal mortality.&#x0D; Conclusion: Cases of placenta previa are at risk of emergency cesarean delivery, which can be complicated by poor maternal and neonatal outcomes. Equipped centers and experienced teams are of great importance in reducing fetomaternal morbidity and mortality caused by placenta previa.

Exploring Cardiac Effects After Oxytocin 2.5 I U or Carbetocin 100 μg: A Randomised Controlled Trial in Women Undergoing Planned Caesarean Delivery

(Eur J Anaesthesiol. 2022;39:928–938) While oxytocin can be cardioprotective at physiologic levels, higher concentrations are used to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and can induce hypotension, ST-depression, tachycardia, arrhythmias, and prolongation of the QTc interval. Further cardiovascular (CV) effects caused directly by oxytocin can result in fatalities in patients with underlying myocardial disease. Such acute risk for susceptible patients warrants characterization of CV changes induced by intravenous oxytocin and its commonly used analog carbetocin as administered to prevent PPH. While carbetocin has demonstrated comparable or improved effect for stimulating uterine contractions and has similar hemodynamic effects to oxytocin, the comparative prevalence of adverse cardiac events is unknown. Myocardial distress can be measured by the release of circulating troponin I (cTnI) and troponin T (cTnT), which are considered indirect indicators of ischemic heart damage. This exploratory Phase 4 randomized trial queried the difference in troponin release following oxytocin or carbetocin administration to approximate the incidence of cardiac adverse events when used to prevent PPH in women undergoing planned cesarean delivery (CD).

Risk of spontaneous preterm birth elevated after first cesarean delivery at full dilatation: a retrospective cohort study of over 30,000 women

Having a cesarean delivery at full dilatation has been associated with increased subsequent risk of spontaneous preterm birth. The Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank provides a rare opportunity to study subsequent pregnancy outcomes after a previous cesarean delivery at full dilatation over 40 years, with an ability to include a detailed evaluation of potential confounding factors. This study aimed to investigate if having an initial cesarean delivery at full dilatation is associated with spontaneous preterm birth or other adverse pregnancy outcomes in the subsequent pregnancy. A retrospective cohort study was conducted including women with a first and second pregnancy recorded within the Aberdeen Maternity and Neonatal Databank between 1976 and 2017, where previous cesarean delivery at full dilatation at term in the first birth was the exposure. The primary outcome was spontaneous preterm birth (defined as spontaneous birth <37 weeks). Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate any association between cesarean delivery at full dilatation and the odds of spontaneous preterm birth. Cesarean delivery at full dilatation in previous pregnancy was compared with: (1) any other mode of birth, and (2) individual modes of birth, including planned cesarean delivery, cesarean delivery in first stage of labor (<10-cm dilatation), and vaginal birth (including spontaneous vaginal birth, nonrotational forceps, Kielland forceps, vacuum-assisted birth, breech vaginal birth). Other outcomes such as antepartum hemorrhage and mode of second birth were also compared. Of the 30,253 women included, 900 had a previous cesarean delivery at full dilatation in the first pregnancy. Women with previous cesarean delivery at full dilatation had a 3-fold increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth in a second pregnancy (unadjusted odds ratio, 2.63; 95% confidence interval, 1.82-3.81; adjusted odds ratio, 3.31; 95% confidence interval, 2.17-5.05) compared with those with all other modes of first birth, adjusted for maternal age, diabetes mellitus, body mass index, smoking, preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, socioeconomic deprivation (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation 2016), year of birth, and interpregnancy interval (in second pregnancy). When compared with women with vaginal births only, women with cesarean delivery at full dilatation had 5-fold increased odds of spontaneous preterm birth (adjusted odds ratio, 5.37; 95% confidence interval, 3.40-8.48). Compared with first spontaneous vaginal birth, first instrumental births (nonrotational forceps, Kielland forceps, and vacuum births) were not associated with increased risk of spontaneous preterm birth in the second birth. After an initial cesarean delivery at full dilatation, 3.7% of women had a repeated cesarean delivery at full dilatation and 48% had a planned cesarean delivery in the second birth. This study is a substantial addition to the body of evidence on the risk of subsequent spontaneous preterm birth after cesarean delivery at full dilatation, and demonstrates a strong association between cesarean delivery at full dilatation in the first birth and spontaneous preterm birth in subsequent pregnancy, although the absolute risk remains small. This is a large retrospective cohort and includes a comprehensive assessment of potential confounding factors, including preeclampsia, antepartum hemorrhage, and lengths of first and second stage of labor. Future research should focus on understanding possible causality and developing primary and secondary preventative measures.

Impact of planned versus emergency cesarean delivery on neonatal outcomes in pregnancies complicated by abnormal placentation: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Although planned cesarean delivery (PCD) is the mainstay of management for abnormal placentation, some patients still require emergency cesarean delivery (ECD). We aimed to systematically analyze the impact of various modes of delivery on neonatal outcomes. This study was complied with the PRISMA guidelines and was registered in the PROSPERO (code: CRD42022379487). A systematic search was conducted on Ovid MEDLINE and Embase, Web of Science, PubMed, and the Cochrane databases. Data extracted included gestational age at delivery, birth weight, the Apgar scores at 1 and 5 minutes, numbers of newborns with low Apgar score (<7) at 5 minutes, the rates of neonatal intensive care unit admission, and the rates of neonatal mortality. Fifteen cohort studies met the inclusion criteria, comprising a total of 2565 women (2567 neonates) who underwent PCD (n = 1483) or ECD (n = 1082) for prenatally diagnosed placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) and/or placenta previa (PP). Compared with the ECD group, neonates in the PCD group had significantly higher gestational ages (standardized mean difference [SMD]: 2.20; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.25-3.15; P < .001), birth weights (SMD: 1.64; 95% CI: 1.00-2.27; P < .001), and Apgar scores at 1 minute (SMD: 0.51; 95% CI: 0.29-0.73; P < .001) and 5 minutes (SMD: 0.47; 95% CI: 0.25-0.70; P < .001). Additionally, the PCD group had significantly lower rates of neonatal intensive care unit admission (odds ratio [OR]: 0.21; 95% CI: 0.14-0.29; P < .001), low Apgar score at 5 minutes (OR: 0.27; 95% CI: 0.11-0.69; P = .01), and neonatal mortality (OR: 0.13; 95% CI: 0.05-0.33; P < .001). When pregnancies are complicated by abnormal placentation, PCD is linked to noticeably better neonatal outcomes than emergent delivery.

Is There an Age Limit for a Trial of Vaginal Delivery in Nulliparous Women?

The number of nulliparous women over the age of 35 is consistently increasing, and the optimal delivery strategy is a subject of ongoing discussion. This study compares perinatal outcomes in nulliparous women aged ≥35 years undergoing a trial of labor (TOL) versus a planned cesarean delivery (CD). A retrospective cohort study including all nulliparous women ≥ 35 years who delivered a single term fetus at a single center between 2007-2019. We compared obstetric and perinatal outcomes according to mode of delivery-TOL versus a planned CD, in three different age groups: (1) 35-37 years, (2) 38-40 years, and (3) >40 years. Out of 103,920 deliveries during the study period, 3034 women met the inclusion criteria. Of them, 1626 (53.59%) were 35-37 years old (group 1), 848 (27.95%) were 38-40 (group 2), and 560 (18.46%) were >40 years (group 3). TOL rates decreased as age increased: 87.7% in group 1, 79.3% in group 2, and 50.1% in group 3, p < 0.001. Rates of successful vaginal delivery were 83.4% in group 1, 79.0% in group 2, and 69.4% in group 3, p < 0.001). Neonatal outcomes were comparable between a TOL and a planned CD. Using multivariate logistic regression, maternal age was found to be independently associated with slightly increased odds for a failed TOL (aOR = 1.13, CI 95% 1.067-1.202). A TOL at advanced maternal age appears to be safe, with considerable success rates. As maternal age advances, there is a small additive risk of intrapartum CD.

Vaginal Preparation Prior to Planned Cesarean Delivery to Reduce Postpartum Endometritis: A Quality Improvement Study [ID: 1378331

INTRODUCTION: Infection prophylaxis is an important part of perioperative care. Studies have demonstrated that incorporation of pre-cesarean vaginal preparation reduces postoperative rates of endometritis in laboring patients or those with ruptured membranes. Our study aimed to identify whether vaginal preparation decreases the risk of postpartum endometritis among scheduled cesarean deliveries. METHODS: We retrospectively reviewed all pregnant people with scheduled cesarean deliveries in one urban, teaching hospital between April 2018 and November 2020. Deliveries were excluded if they were laboring, had ruptured membranes prior to surgery, had known iodine allergy, or had other intraoperative complications. Deliveries were divided into three groups based on vaginal preparation protocol implementation: preimplementation (April 2018 to March 2019), implementation (April 2019 to November 2019), and postimplementation (December 2019 to November 2020). Only deliveries in the preimplementation versus postimplementation group were compared given implementation learning curve. Descriptive and inferential statistics were computed; χ2 or Fisher’s exact test was used to assess differences in rates of endometritis or other postpartum complications. RESULTS: Overall, 320 scheduled cesarean deliveries were included (N=162 preimplementation; N=158 postimplementation). Rates of endometritis was not different between groups (1.2% versus 2.5% postimplementation; P=.44). Similarly, postpartum complication rates for fever (1.2% versus 3.8% postimplementation, P=.17), wound infection (3.7% versus 3.2% postimplementation, P=.79), sepsis (0% versus 0.6% postimplementation, P=.49), and 30-day readmission unrelated to preeclampsia (3.7% versus 3.3% postimplementation, P=.12) were not different between groups. CONCLUSION: While there was no reduction in postpartum endometritis in patients undergoing planned cesarean delivery, universal implementation may still be a reasonable intervention given its low cost and known benefit in laboring patients or those with ruptured membranes.

Advanced Maternal Age Among Nulliparous at Term and Risk of Unscheduled Cesarean Delivery

With the rise in the number of women giving birth at an advanced age, the association between advanced maternal age and adverse obstetrical outcomes is a growing concern in developed countries. Despite the well-established link between advanced maternal age and pregnancy-related complications, there has been limited research examining the specific risks related to unscheduled cesarean delivery in nulliparas at term. This study aimed to evaluate the risks associated with unscheduled cesarean delivery in nulliparas at ≥37 weeks of gestation, comparing the outcomes of younger patients with those aged ≥40 years. This retrospective cohort study was conducted in a tertiary maternity hospital in Switzerland (high-income country). The study included nulliparas who delivered a live-born infant at ≥37 weeks between January 2015 and December 2019. We excluded pregnant women who had a planned cesarean delivery, were aged <18 years, multiparous, delivered before 37 weeks of gestation, or had pregnancies that ended in stillbirth. Participants were divided into 2 age groups: (1) ≥40 years and (2) <40 years. The primary outcome was the incidence of unscheduled cesarean delivery. Its association with advanced maternal age was evaluated after adjusting for confounding factors by multivariate logistic regression, expressed as an adjusted odds ratio. Secondary outcomes included pregnancy outcomes and neonatal outcomes. A total of 5211 patients were included: 173 in the ≥40-years (advanced maternal age) group and 5038 in the <40-years (non-advanced maternal age) group; 26.01% (95% confidence interval, 19.65-33.22; n=45) of women in the advanced maternal age group had an unscheduled cesarean delivery, whereas 15.26% (95% confidence interval, 14.28-16.29; n=769) of women in the non-advanced maternal age group underwent the procedure. Advanced maternal age was associated with unscheduled cesarean delivery, with an adjusted odds ratio of 1.51 (95% confidence interval, 1.06-2.17; P=.024). Among vaginal deliveries, assisted procedures were performed on 29.7% (95% confidence interval, 21.9-38.4; n=38) of advanced maternal age patients vs 20.1% (95% confidence interval, 18.9-21.3; n=856) of non-advanced maternal age patients. Postpartum blood loss >1000 mL occurred in 5.8% (95% confidence interval, 2.8-10.4; n=10) of advanced maternal age patients and 3.1% (95% confidence interval, 2.6-3.6; n=156) of non-advanced maternal age patients. Advanced maternal age is associated with increased risk of unscheduled cesarean delivery among nulliparas. This provides healthcare professionals with confirmation that advanced age may represent an individual risk factor, suggesting that nulliparous patients aged over 40 years may benefit from improved information regarding the factors contributing to this pregnancy outcome.

Mild neonatal morbidity in twins by planned mode of delivery: a secondary analysis of the Twin Birth Study

The Twin Birth Study showed no differences in major severe adverse neonatal outcomes between those with planned vaginal delivery and those with planned cesarean delivery. This was a secondary analysis of the Twin Birth Study in which mild neonatal morbidities, not previously reported, were compared between parturients with planned cesarean deliveries and those with planned vaginal delivery in twin births. This was a secondary analysis of the Twin Birth Study. In this study, women with a twin pregnancy at 32+0/7 to 38+6/7 weeks of gestation with the first twin in cephalic presentation and with an estimated weight between 1500 and 4000 g were randomized to either planned cesarean delivery or planned vaginal delivery. The primary outcome of this study was a composite mild neonatal outcome of respiratory and neurologic morbidities and neonatal intensive care unit admission that were not reported in the original Twin Birth Study at 34+0/7 to 38+6/7 weeks of gestation. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify factors associated with the composite adverse neonatal outcomes. Neonatal outcomes were further stratified by gestational age at delivery and by actual mode of delivery. A total of 1304 women and 1326 women were randomly assigned to planned cesarean delivery and planned vaginal delivery, respectively. Demographic and obstetrical characteristics were similar between the study groups. The rate of cesarean delivery was 90.1% in the planned cesarean delivery group and 40.1% in the planned vaginal delivery group. There was no significant difference in the primary composite outcome between the groups (10.6% vs 11.3%; P=.45) neither by planned mode of delivery nor by actual mode of delivery. Stratification by gestational age found a lower rate of the primary outcomes at ≥38+0/7 weeks of gestation in the planned cesarean delivery group when compared with the planned vaginal delivery group (4.8% vs 10.8%, respectively; P=.02). Furthermore, a lower risk for some individual outcomes was reported in the planned cesarean delivery group when compared with the planned vaginal delivery group, including intraventricular hemorrhage stage 1 to 2 (0.2% vs 0.6%; P<.05), low Apgar scores (0.8% vs 2.3%; P<.05), pH <7.0 (0.3 vs 1%; P<.05), and assisted ventilation needed at delivery (0.4% vs 0.9%; P<.05). In twin deliveries, with the first twin in the cephalic presentation, composite mild neonatal morbidity was not affected by the planned mode of delivery. These findings reinforce the original results of the Twin Birth Study. Nevertheless, an increased composite outcome after 38 weeks' gestation and a higher risk for some individual morbidities in the planned vaginal delivery group might be viewed as a concerning signal for the safety of vaginal delivery in twin deliveries and requires further research.

Effects on neonatal immunoglobulin concentrations by infant mode of delivery in the upstate KIDS study (2008-2010).

Previous studies document an association between mode of delivery (MOD) and allergic conditions in children. Immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations at birth may play a role. The goal of this study is to assess the impact of MOD on Ig concentrations at delivery from newborn dried blood spots (DBS). The Upstate KIDS Study (2008-2010) is a prospective cohort of mother-child pairs recruited from New York State, excluding New York City. Ig subtypes IgA, IgE, IgG1 , IgG2 , IgG3 , IgG4 , and IgM were measured in residual NDBS from the Newborn Screening Program (N=3274 infants). MOD was categorized as vaginal delivery (VD), emergency cesarean delivery (ECD) or planned cesarean delivery (PCD). Associations between MOD and Ig levels were assessed using ANOVA and multiple regression, with models adjusted for gestational age, birth weight, maternal race, plurality, and smoking status. IgA, and the IgG subtypes IgG3 and IgG4 were found to be significantly lower in PCD neonates relative to VD neonates in adjusted regression models: 3.57mg/ml, (95% CI: 3.51, 3.63) compared to 3.64mg/ml (95% CI: 3.59, 3.69); 8.95ng/ml (95% CI: 8.88,9.03) compared to 9.03ng/ml (95% CI: 8.98, 9.08) and 8.05ng/ml (95% CI: 7.91, 8.20) compared to 8.22ng/ml (95% CI: 7.91,8.20), respectively. MOD may thus be related to neonatal immune profile. Results were found to be robust to sensitivity testing based on maternal complications and indication for CD. Clinical implications are unclear given the small levels of association found in newborns, but the result suggests greater susceptibility to infection, and further study is warranted.

Efficacy of Single Wound Infiltration With Bupivacaine and Adrenaline During Cesarean Delivery for Reduction of Postoperative Pain

Most women report moderate to severe pain after cesarean delivery. The extent of the ability of surgical wound infiltration with local anesthetic agents during cesarean delivery for the reduction of postoperative pain is uncertain. To examine the efficacy of single wound infiltration with bupivacaine and adrenaline during cesarean delivery for the reduction of postoperative pain. This randomized clinical trial was conducted between January 25, 2018, and May 30, 2020, at a university teaching hospital in Afula, Israel. A total of 288 women with singleton pregnancy who were scheduled for a planned cesarean delivery at term were randomized to receive single wound infiltration with bupivacaine and adrenaline during cesarean delivery (intervention group) or no single wound infiltration (control group) at a 1:1 ratio. In the intervention group, the subcutaneous layer was infiltrated on both sides of the wound by a mixture of bupivacaine and adrenaline before wound closure. Other perioperative techniques were similar between the groups. The primary outcome was mean pain intensity over the course of 24 hours after the operation, as measured by a visual analog scale (VAS) score ranging from 0 to 10 (with higher scores indicating greater pain intensity). To detect a mean (SD) reduction of 1 (3) points in the VAS score in the intervention group, 286 women were needed in total. Secondary outcomes included VAS score greater than 4 (indicating moderate pain) at 2 hours after the operation, use of rescue opioids, maternal satisfaction with the pain management procedure (using a scale of 1-5, with higher scores indicating greater satisfaction), duration of the operation, scar complications (hematoma, infection, and separation), and length of stay. Among 288 women (mean [SD] age, 32.5 [5.1] years; all of Arab or Jewish ethnicity), 143 were randomized to the intervention group, and 145 were randomized to the control group. Demographic and obstetric variables were similar between groups. The primary outcome (VAS pain score) was significantly lower in the intervention group (mean [SD], 2.21 [0.56]) compared with the control group (mean [SD], 2.41 [0.73]; P = .02). In the intervention group, 11 women (7.7%) had a VAS score greater than 4 at 2 hours compared with 22 women (15.2%) in the control group (odds ratio, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.22-1.00; P = .05). In addition, compared with the control group, the intervention group had significantly lower postpartum use of rescue opioid analgesics (19 women [13.3%] vs 37 women [25.5%]; P = .009) and greater satisfaction with pain management (mean [SD] score, 4.65 [0.68] vs 4.44 [0.76]; P = .007). In the intervention vs control groups, duration of the operation, scar complications (hematoma, infection, or separation), and length of stay were comparable. In this study, wound infiltration with a single administration of bupivacaine and adrenaline during cesarean delivery reduced postoperative pain and opioid use and may have improved maternal satisfaction with pain management. These findings suggest the technique is efficacious, safe, and easy to perform. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03395912.