A randomized, controlled trial comparing effect of oral misoprostol and intravenous syntocinon on intra-operative blood loss during cesarean section

The efficacy of misoprostol in reducing intraoperative blood loss in women undergoing elective cesarean section. A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy of misoprostol to minimized blood loss during and after cesarean delivery (CD).

SEARCH STRATEGY

Screening of MEDLINE, EMBASE, Web of Science, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials from inception to February 2021 using the keywords related to misoprostol, CD, postpartum hemorrhage, and intraoperative blood loss and their MeSH terms.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Only RCTs were included. Participants included women undergoing CD whether elective or selective. Thirty studies including 6593 women, 26 in English, 2 in Thai, 1 in French, and 1 in Chinese.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Data from all selected studies were extracted independently by two authors. Data extracted included location of the trial, sample size, inclusion and exclusion criteria, participants characteristics, intervention details including timing, dose, and route of drug administration. Outcomes assessed included estimated intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, occurrence of postpartum hemorrhage, the need for additional uterotonics, and hemoglobin difference.

MAIN RESULTS

Four studies (968 women) compared preoperative to postoperative misoprostol and found a mean difference in intraoperative blood loss of -205.00 (-339.22, -70.77), p = 0.003 and in postoperative blood loss -216.27 (-347.08, -85.46), p < 0.001 and a significantly lower need for additional uterotonics with a risk ratio of 0.54 (0.46, 0.64), p < 0.00001. Twenty-two studies (4701 participants) compared misoprostol to oxytocin. There was a mean difference in intraoperative blood loss of -108.43 (-156.04, -60.82), p < 0.0001. Nine of these trials with 1978 participants evaluated postoperative blood loss. These found a mean difference of -64.12 (-116.19, -12.04) with a p = 0.02. Fourteen trials with 3166 participants measured the difference between preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin. These found a mean difference of -0.25 (-0.35, -0.15) with a p < 0.001. Twenty trials with 4416 participants measured the need for administration of additional uterotonics. These found a risk ratio of 0.62 (0.49, 0.78) with a p value of <0.001.

CONCLUSION

The combined use of misoprostol and oxytocin during CD is effective in reducing blood loss during and after CD.

Preventing postpartum hemorrhage after cesarean delivery: a network meta-analysis of available pharmacologic agents

BACKGROUND

Postpartum hemorrhage causes a quarter of global maternal deaths. The World Health Organization recommends oxytocin as the first line agent to prevent hemorrhage during cesarean delivery. However, some randomized controlled trials suggest that other uterotonics are superior.

OBJECTIVE

We conducted a network meta-analysis comparing the ability of pharmacologic agents to reduce blood loss and minimize the need for additional uterotonics during cesarean delivery.

DATA SOURCES

We searched the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Embase, and MEDLINE databases from inception to May 2020.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

We included randomized controlled trials that compared oxytocin, carbetocin, misoprostol, ergometrine, carboprost, or combinations of these in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage during cesarean delivery.

METHODS

We performed a systematic review followed by an NMA in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. Quality of the evidence was assessed with the Confidence in Network Meta-Analysis approach and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations tool within the summary of findings table. Our primary outcomes were the estimated blood loss and need for additional uterotonics. Secondary outcomes included nausea and postpartum hemorrhage of >1000 mL. We performed sensitivity analyses to explore the influence of surgical context and oxytocin administration strategy.

RESULTS

A total of 46 studies with 7368 participants were included. Of those, 21 trials (6 agents and 3665 participants) formed the "estimated blood loss" network and, considering the treatment effects, certainty in the evidence, and surface under the cumulative ranking curve scores, carbetocin was assessed to probably be superior to oxytocin, but only in reducing the estimated blood loss by a clinically insignificant volume (54.83 mL; 95% confidence interval, 26.48-143.78). Misoprostol, ergometrine, and the combination of oxytocin and ergometrine were assessed to probably be inferior, whereas the combination of oxytocin and misoprostol was assessed to definitely be inferior to oxytocin. A total of 37 trials (8 agents and 6193 participants) formed the "additional uterotonic" network and, again, carbetocin was assessed to probably be superior to oxytocin, requiring additional uterotonics 185 (95% confidence interval, 130-218) fewer times per 1000 cases. Oxytocin plus misoprostol, oxytocin plus ergometrine, and misoprostol were assessed to probably be inferior, whereas carboprost, ergometrine, and the placebo were definitely inferior to oxytocin. For both primary outcomes, oxytocin administration strategies had a higher probability of being the best uterotonic, if initiated as a bolus.

CONCLUSION

Carbetocin is probably the most effective agent in reducing blood loss and the need for additional uterotonics. Oxytocin appears to be more effective when initiated as a bolus.

Uterotonic drugs to prevent postpartum haemorrhage: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Prophylactic uterotonic drugs can reduce blood loss and are routinely recommended. There are several uterotonic drugs for preventing PPH, but it is still debatable which drug or combination of drugs is the most effective.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the most effective and cost-effective uterotonic drug(s) to prevent PPH, and generate a ranking according to their effectiveness and side-effect profile.

METHODS

The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register (1 June 2015), ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization (WHO)'s International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) were searched for unpublished trial reports (30 June 2015). In addition, reference lists of retrieved studies (updated October 2017) were searched for randomised trials evaluating uterotonic drugs for preventing PPH. The study estimated relative effects and rankings for preventing PPH, defined as blood loss of ≥ 500 ml and ≥ 1000 ml. Pairwise meta-analyses and network meta-analysis were performed to determine the relative effects and rankings of all available drugs and combinations thereof [ergometrine, misoprostol (Cytotec^®; Pfizer Inc., New York, NY, USA), misoprostol plus oxytocin (Syntocinon^®; Novartis International AG, Basel, Switzerland), carbetocin (Pabal^®; Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Saint-Prex, Switzerland), ergometrine plus oxytocin (Syntometrine^®; Alliance Pharma plc, Chippenham, UK), oxytocin, and a placebo or no treatment]. Primary outcomes were stratified according to the mode of birth, prior risk of PPH, health-care setting, drug dosage, regimen and route of drug administration. Sensitivity analyses were performed according to study quality and funding source, among others. A model-based economic evaluation compared the relative cost-effectiveness separately for vaginal births and caesareans with or without including side effects.

RESULTS

From 137 randomised trials and 87,466 women, ergometrine plus oxytocin, carbetocin and misoprostol plus oxytocin were found to reduce the risk of PPH blood loss of ≥ 500 ml compared with the standard drug, oxytocin [ergometrine plus oxytocin: risk ratio (RR) 0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 0.83; carbetocin: RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.52 to 1.00; misoprostol plus oxytocin: RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.6 to 0.9]. Each of these three strategies had 100% cumulative probability of being ranked first, second or third most effective. Oxytocin was ranked fourth, with an almost 0% cumulative probability of being ranked in the top three. Similar rankings were noted for the reduction of PPH blood loss of ≥ 1000 ml (ergometrine plus oxytocin: RR 0.77, 95% CI 0.61 to 0.95; carbetocin: RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.38 to 1.28; misoprostol plus oxytocin: RR 0.90, 95% CI 0.72 to 1.14), and most secondary outcomes. Ergometrine plus oxytocin and misoprostol plus oxytocin had the poorest ranking for side effects. Carbetocin had a favourable side-effect profile, which was similar to oxytocin. However, the analysis was restricted to high-quality studies, carbetocin lost its ranking and was comparable to oxytocin. The relative cost-effectiveness of the alternative strategies is inconclusive, and the results are affected by both the uncertainty and inconsistency in the data reported on adverse events. For vaginal delivery, when assuming no adverse events, ergometrine plus oxytocin is less costly and more effective than all strategies except carbetocin. The strategy of carbetocin is both more effective and more costly than all other strategies. When taking adverse events into consideration, all prevention strategies, except oxytocin, are more costly and less effective than carbetocin. For delivery by caesarean section, with and without adverse events, the relative cost-effectiveness is different, again because of the uncertainty in the available data.

LIMITATIONS

There was considerable uncertainty in findings within the planned subgroup analyses, and subgroup effects cannot be ruled out.

CONCLUSIONS

Ergometrine plus oxytocin, carbetocin and misoprostol plus oxytocin are more effective uterotonic drug strategies for preventing PPH than the current standard, oxytocin. Ergometrine plus oxytocin and misoprostol plus oxytocin cause significant side effects. Carbetocin has a favourable side-effect profile, which was similar to oxytocin. However, most carbetocin trials are small and of poor quality. There is a need for a large high-quality trial comparing carbetocin with oxytocin; such a trial is currently being conducted by the WHO. The relative cost-effectiveness is inconclusive, and results are affected by uncertainty and inconsistency in adverse events data.

STUDY REGISTRATION

This study is registered as PROSPERO CRD42015020005; Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group (substudy) reference number 0871; PROSPERO-Cochrane (substudy) reference number CRD42015026568; and sponsor reference number ERN_13-1414 (University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK).

FUNDING

Funding for this study was provided by the National Institute for Health Research Health Technology Assessment programme in a research award to the University of Birmingham and supported by the UK charity Ammalife (UK-registered charity 1120236). The funders of the study had no role in study design, data collection, data synthesis, interpretation or writing of the report.

Uterotonic agents for preventing postpartum haemorrhage: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Prophylactic uterotonic agents can prevent PPH, and are routinely recommended. The current World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation for preventing PPH is 10 IU (international units) of intramuscular or intravenous oxytocin. There are several uterotonic agents for preventing PPH but there is still uncertainty about which agent is most effective with the least side effects. This is an update of a Cochrane Review which was first published in April 2018 and was updated to incorporate results from a recent large WHO trial.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the most effective uterotonic agent(s) to prevent PPH with the least side effects, and generate a ranking according to their effectiveness and side-effect profile.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register, ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) (24 May 2018), and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised controlled trials or cluster-randomised trials comparing the effectiveness and side effects of uterotonic agents with other uterotonic agents, placebo or no treatment for preventing PPH were eligible for inclusion. Quasi-randomised trials were excluded. Randomised trials published only as abstracts were eligible if sufficient information could be retrieved.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

At least three review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy. We estimated the relative effects and rankings for preventing PPH ≥ 500 mL and PPH ≥ 1000 mL as primary outcomes. Secondary outcomes included blood loss and related outcomes, morbidity outcomes, maternal well-being and satisfaction and side effects. Primary outcomes were also reported for pre-specified subgroups, stratifying by mode of birth, prior risk of PPH, healthcare setting, dosage, regimen and route of administration. We performed pairwise meta-analyses and network meta-analysis to determine the relative effects and rankings of all available agents.

MAIN RESULTS

The network meta-analysis included 196 trials (135,559 women) involving seven uterotonic agents and placebo or no treatment, conducted across 53 countries (including high-, middle- and low-income countries). Most trials were performed in a hospital setting (187/196, 95.4%) with women undergoing a vaginal birth (71.5%, 140/196).Relative effects from the network meta-analysis suggested that all agents were effective for preventing PPH ≥ 500 mL when compared with placebo or no treatment. The three highest ranked uterotonic agents for prevention of PPH ≥ 500 mL were ergometrine plus oxytocin combination, misoprostol plus oxytocin combination and carbetocin. There is evidence that ergometrine plus oxytocin (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.59 to 0.84, moderate certainty), carbetocin (RR 0.72, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.93, moderate certainty) and misoprostol plus oxytocin (RR 0.70, 95% CI 0.58 to 0.86, low certainty) may reduce PPH ≥ 500 mL compared with oxytocin. Low-certainty evidence suggests that misoprostol, injectable prostaglandins, and ergometrine may make little or no difference to this outcome compared with oxytocin.All agents except ergometrine and injectable prostaglandins were effective for preventing PPH ≥ 1000 mL when compared with placebo or no treatment. High-certainty evidence suggests that ergometrine plus oxytocin (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.03) and misoprostol plus oxytocin (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.70 to 1.11) make little or no difference in the outcome of PPH ≥ 1000 mL compared with oxytocin. Low-certainty evidence suggests that ergometrine may make little or no difference to this outcome compared with oxytocin meanwhile the evidence on carbetocin was of very low certainty. High-certainty evidence suggests that misoprostol is less effective in preventing PPH ≥ 1000 mL when compared with oxytocin (RR 1.19, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.42). Despite the comparable relative treatment effects between all uterotonics (except misoprostol) and oxytocin, ergometrine plus oxytocin, misoprostol plus oxytocin combinations and carbetocin were the highest ranked agents for PPH ≥ 1000 mL.Misoprostol plus oxytocin reduces the use of additional uterotonics (RR 0.56, 95% CI 0.42 to 0.73, high certainty) and probably also reduces the risk of blood transfusion (RR 0.51, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.70, moderate certainty) when compared with oxytocin. Carbetocin, injectable prostaglandins and ergometrine plus oxytocin may also reduce the use of additional uterotonics but the certainty of the evidence is low. No meaningful differences could be detected between all agents for maternal deaths or severe morbidity as these outcomes were rare in the included randomised trials where they were reported.The two combination regimens were associated with important side effects. When compared with oxytocin, misoprostol plus oxytocin combination increases the likelihood of vomiting (RR 2.11, 95% CI 1.39 to 3.18, high certainty) and fever (RR 3.14, 95% CI 2.20 to 4.49, moderate certainty). Ergometrine plus oxytocin increases the likelihood of vomiting (RR 2.93, 95% CI 2.08 to 4.13, moderate certainty) and may make little or no difference to the risk of hypertension, however absolute effects varied considerably and the certainty of the evidence was low for this outcome.Subgroup analyses did not reveal important subgroup differences by mode of birth (caesarean versus vaginal birth), setting (hospital versus community), risk of PPH (high versus low risk for PPH), dose of misoprostol (≥ 600 mcg versus < 600 mcg) and regimen of oxytocin (bolus versus bolus plus infusion versus infusion only).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

All agents were generally effective for preventing PPH when compared with placebo or no treatment. Ergometrine plus oxytocin combination, carbetocin, and misoprostol plus oxytocin combination may have some additional desirable effects compared with the current standard oxytocin. The two combination regimens, however, are associated with significant side effects. Carbetocin may be more effective than oxytocin for some outcomes without an increase in side effects.

The efficacy of intrauterine misoprostol during cesarean section in prevention of primary PPH, a randomized controlled trial

Background: Postpartum hemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide.Aim: To compare the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage in women eligible for elective cesarean section (CS) delivery when using intrauterine misoprostol added to oxytocin versus oxytocin alone.Design, Setting, Participants: This parallel randomized controlled trial study was conducted in two institutions in Egypt (Kasralainy and Aljazeerah hospital) 0.300 women eligible for elective CS delivery were enrolled in the study.Interventions: Before randomization, all women received the same preparations. After randomization; in the study group (N = 150), intrauterine misoprostol was used after placental delivery. In the control group (N = 150), the routine oxytocin alone was used.Results: Both groups were comparable (p-value >.05) with regard to the age, BMI, and gestational age as well as hemoglobin and hematocrit levels. The incidence of postpartum hemorrhage was significantly lower (p = .018) in the study group (1.33%) than the control group (6.67%). The absolute risk reduction was 5.3% (CI 95%: 0.8-10.6%) with a relative risk of 0.20 (CI 95%: 0.05-0.90) and number needed to treat (NNT) 19 (CI 95%: 125-9). Moreover, the needs for a blood transfusion, extra uterotonics or additional interventions were significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (p < .05). All the three parameters of blood loss ie the mean blood loss, and the mean reductions of hemoglobin and hematocrit levels were significantly (p-value <.05) lower in the study group (mean and SD) (442.59 and 151.33 mL,0.46 and 0.3 g/dL, and 0.84 and 0.56%), respectively than in the control group (591.01 and 287.97 mL,1.2 and 1.39 g/dL, and 3.47 and 3.52%), respectively. Adverse events were comparable between groups; these were fever, nausea, and vomiting and shivering.Conclusion: Intrauterine misoprostol (400 mg) when added to oxytocin is safe and effective in decreasing the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) and reducing the amount of postpartum blood loss in case of elective CS delivery.

Uterotonic agents for preventing postpartum haemorrhage: a network meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is the leading cause of maternal mortality worldwide. Prophylactic uterotonic drugs can prevent PPH, and are routinely recommended. There are several uterotonic drugs for preventing PPH but it is still debatable which drug is best.

OBJECTIVES

To identify the most effective uterotonic drug(s) to prevent PPH, and generate a ranking according to their effectiveness and side-effect profile.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth's Trials Register (1 June 2015), ClinicalTrials.gov and the World Health Organization (WHO) International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP) for unpublished trial reports (30 June 2015) and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

All randomised controlled comparisons or cluster trials of effectiveness or side-effects of uterotonic drugs for preventing PPH.Quasi-randomised trials and cross-over trials are not eligible for inclusion in this review.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

At least three review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy. We estimated the relative effects and rankings for preventing PPH ≥ 500 mL and PPH ≥ 1000 mL as primary outcomes. We performed pairwise meta-analyses and network meta-analysis to determine the relative effects and rankings of all available drugs. We stratified our primary outcomes according to mode of birth, prior risk of PPH, healthcare setting, dosage, regimen and route of drug administration, to detect subgroup effects.The absolute risks in the oxytocin are based on meta-analyses of proportions from the studies included in this review and the risks in the intervention groups were based on the assumed risk in the oxytocin group and the relative effects of the interventions.

MAIN RESULTS

This network meta-analysis included 140 randomised trials with data from 88,947 women. There are two large ongoing studies. The trials were mostly carried out in hospital settings and recruited women who were predominantly more than 37 weeks of gestation having a vaginal birth. The majority of trials were assessed to have uncertain risk of bias due to poor reporting of study design. This primarily impacted on our confidence in comparisons involving carbetocin trials more than other uterotonics.The three most effective drugs for prevention of PPH ≥ 500 mL were ergometrine plus oxytocin combination, carbetocin, and misoprostol plus oxytocin combination. These three options were more effective at preventing PPH ≥ 500 mL compared with oxytocin, the drug currently recommended by the WHO (ergometrine plus oxytocin risk ratio (RR) 0.69 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.57 to 0.83), moderate-quality evidence; carbetocin RR 0.72 (95% CI 0.52 to 1.00), very low-quality evidence; misoprostol plus oxytocin RR 0.73 (95% CI 0.60 to 0.90), moderate-quality evidence). Based on these results, about 10.5% women given oxytocin would experience a PPH of ≥ 500 mL compared with 7.2% given ergometrine plus oxytocin combination, 7.6% given carbetocin, and 7.7% given misoprostol plus oxytocin. Oxytocin was ranked fourth with close to 0% cumulative probability of being ranked in the top three for PPH ≥ 500 mL.The outcomes and rankings for the outcome of PPH ≥ 1000 mL were similar to those of PPH ≥ 500 mL. with the evidence for ergometrine plus oxytocin combination being more effective than oxytocin (RR 0.77 (95% CI 0.61 to 0.95), high-quality evidence) being more certain than that for carbetocin (RR 0.70 (95% CI 0.38 to 1.28), low-quality evidence), or misoprostol plus oxytocin combination (RR 0.90 (95% CI 0.72 to 1.14), moderate-quality evidence)There were no meaningful differences between all drugs for maternal deaths or severe morbidity as these outcomes were so rare in the included randomised trials.Two combination regimens had the poorest rankings for side-effects. Specifically, the ergometrine plus oxytocin combination had the higher risk for vomiting (RR 3.10 (95% CI 2.11 to 4.56), high-quality evidence; 1.9% versus 0.6%) and hypertension [RR 1.77 (95% CI 0.55 to 5.66), low-quality evidence; 1.2% versus 0.7%), while the misoprostol plus oxytocin combination had the higher risk for fever (RR 3.18 (95% CI 2.22 to 4.55), moderate-quality evidence; 11.4% versus 3.6%) when compared with oxytocin. Carbetocin had similar risk for side-effects compared with oxytocin although the quality evidence was very low for vomiting and for fever, and was low for hypertension.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Ergometrine plus oxytocin combination, carbetocin, and misoprostol plus oxytocin combination were more effective for preventing PPH ≥ 500 mL than the current standard oxytocin. Ergometrine plus oxytocin combination was more effective for preventing PPH ≥ 1000 mL than oxytocin. Misoprostol plus oxytocin combination evidence is less consistent and may relate to different routes and doses of misoprostol used in the studies. Carbetocin had the most favourable side-effect profile amongst the top three options; however, most carbetocin trials were small and at high risk of bias.Amongst the 11 ongoing studies listed in this review there are two key studies that will inform a future update of this review. The first is a WHO-led multi-centre study comparing the effectiveness of a room temperature stable carbetocin versus oxytocin (administered intramuscularly) for preventing PPH in women having a vaginal birth. The trial includes around 30,000 women from 10 countries. The other is a UK-based trial recruiting more than 6000 women to a three-arm trial comparing carbetocin, oxytocin and ergometrine plus oxytocin combination. Both trials are expected to report in 2018.Consultation with our consumer group demonstrated the need for more research into PPH outcomes identified as priorities for women and their families, such as women's views regarding the drugs used, clinical signs of excessive blood loss, neonatal unit admissions and breastfeeding at discharge. To date, trials have rarely investigated these outcomes. Consumers also considered the side-effects of uterotonic drugs to be important but these were often not reported. A forthcoming set of core outcomes relating to PPH will identify outcomes to prioritise in trial reporting and will inform futures updates of this review. We urge all trialists to consider measuring these outcomes for each drug in all future randomised trials. Lastly, future evidence synthesis research could compare the effects of different dosages and routes of administration for the most effective drugs.

Sublingual misoprostol versus intravenous oxytocin in reducing bleeding during and after cesarean delivery: A randomized clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

This study compares the efficacy of sublingual misoprostol versus intravenous oxytocin in reducing bleeding during and after cesarean delivery.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A randomized clinical trial conducted on 120 pregnant women at term (37-40 weeks) gestation scheduled for elective cesarean delivery, who were assigned to either sublingual misoprostol 400 μg or intravenous infusion of 20 units of oxytocin after delivery of the neonate. The main outcome measures were blood loss at and 2 hours after cesarean delivery, change in hematocrit value, need for any additional oxytocic drugs, and drug-related side effects.

RESULTS

The overall mean blood loss was significantly lower in the misoprostol group compared to the oxytocin group (490.75 ± 159.90 mL vs. 601.08 ± 299.49 mL; p = 0.025). However, changes in hematocrit level (pre- and postpartum) was comparable between both groups. There was a need for additional oxytocic therapy in 16.7% and 23.3% after use of misoprostol and oxytocin, respectively (p = 0.361). Incidence of side effects such as shivering and metallic taste were significantly higher in the misoprostol group compared to the oxytocin group (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Sublingual misoprostol is more effective than intravenous infusion of oxytocin in reducing blood loss during and after cesarean delivery. However, occurrence of temporary side effects such as shivering and metallic taste was more frequent with the use of misoprostol.

Effect of oxytocin infusion on reducing the blood loss during abdominal myomectomy: a double-blind randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To assess the effectiveness and safety of oxytocin to reduce blood loss during abdominal myomectomy.

DESIGN

Double-blind randomised controlled trial.

SETTING

Obstetrics and Gynecologic University Medical Centre.

POPULATION

Eighty healthy women candidates for abdominal myomectomy.

METHODS

Women were randomly assigned to two groups. In the study group (n = 40) oxytocin 30 IU in 500 ml normal saline; and in the placebo group (n = 40) pure normal saline was administered during myomectomy. The main outcome measures were peri-operative blood loss and rates of blood transfusion.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE

Estimated intra-operative blood loss.

RESULTS

Estimated intra-operative blood loss in the study group (189.5 ± 16.72 ml) was significantly lower than the placebo group (692.25 ± 89.93 ml) (95% CI 672.54-711.96; P < 0.0001).The need for blood transfusion was significantly lower in the study group. Blood transfusions were required for three (7.5%) women in the study group and 10 (25%) women in the placebo group (95% CI 15.5-34.5; P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Intra-operative oxytocin infusion appears to be safe and effective in decreasing blood loss during abdominal myomectomy.

TWEETABLE ABSTRACT

Intra-operative oxytocin is effective in decreasing blood loss during abdominal myomectomy.

A network meta-analysis of updated haemostatic strategies for hysterectomy

OBJECTIVE

To determine the best haemostatic strategy for hysterectomy through a network meta-analysis.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic literature search of the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases and extracted data from randomized controlled trials comparing haemostatic strategies for hysterectomy. Direct comparisons and network meta-analyses were conducted in RevMan and ADDIS. Consistency models were established to identify the differences among different haemostatic strategies, and cumulative probability was used to rank the included strategies. Inconsistencies were also tested using node-splitting models.

RESULTS

Twenty studies from 16 articles (2 articles contained 3 studies each) comprising 1392 patients were included. Direct meta-analysis showed that the LigaSure (SMD = -1.42 [-2.39, -0.44], P = 0.004), bipolar vessel sealing systems (BVSS) (SMD = -0.35 [-0.66, -0.03], P = 0.03), and pituitrin (SMD = -2.13 [-4.14, -0.13], P = 0.04) applications were effective haemostatic strategies. Based on the network meta-analysis and related subgroup analysis of different surgical procedures, the results showed that the application of pituitrin seemed to be the best haemostatic method for hysterectomy (Rank P = 0.64), especially for vaginal hysterectomy (Rank P = 0.72). The application of LigaSure was the best strategy for abdominal hysterectomy (Rank P = 0.54) but was not effective for laparoscopic hysterectomy (direct comparison with BVSS, MD = -31.39 [-146.61, 83.83], P = 0.59). The node-splitting models test revealed that no significant inconsistencies existed in this research.

CONCLUSIONS

Pituitrin application seemed to be the most effective haemostatic strategy for hysterectomy and was especially suitable for vaginal hysterectomy. The best method for reducing blood loss in abdominal hysterectomy was the application of LigaSure.

Postpartum misoprostol for preventing maternal mortality and morbidity

BACKGROUND

The primary objective of postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) prevention and treatment is to reduce maternal deaths. Misoprostol has the major public health advantage over injectable medication that it can more easily be distributed at community level. Because misoprostol might have adverse effects unrelated to blood loss which might impact on mortality or severe morbidity, it is important to continue surveillance of all relevant evidence from randomised trials. This is particularly important as misoprostol is being introduced on a large scale for PPH prevention in low-income countries, and is commonly used for PPH treatment in well-resourced settings as well.

OBJECTIVES

To review maternal deaths and severe morbidity in all randomised trials of misoprostol for prevention or treatment of PPH.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (11 January 2013).

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised trials including pregnant women who received misoprostol in the postpartum period, versus placebo/no treatment or other uterotonics for prevention or treatment of PPH, and reporting on maternal death, severe morbidity or pyrexia.We planned to include cluster- and quasi-randomised trials in the analysis, as a very large number of women will be needed to obtain robust estimates of maternal mortality but we did not identify any for this version of the review. In future updates of this review we will include trials reported only as abstracts if sufficient information is available from the abstract or from the authors.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 78 studies (59,216 women) and excluded 34 studies.There was no statistically significant difference in maternal mortality for misoprostol compared with control groups overall (31 studies; 11/19,715 versus 4/20,076 deaths; risk ratio (RR) 2.08, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.82 to 5.28); or for the trials of misoprostol versus placebo: 10 studies, 6/4626 versus 1/4707 ; RR 2.70; 95% CI 0.72 to 10.11; or for misoprostol versus other uterotonics: 21 studies, 5/15,089 versus 3/15,369 (19/100,000); RR 1.54; 95% CI 0.40 to 5.92. All 11 deaths in the misoprostol arms occurred in studies of misoprostol ≥ 600 µg.There was a statistically significant difference in the composite outcome 'maternal death or severe morbidity' for the comparison of misoprostol versus placebo (12 studies; average RR 1.70, 95% CI 1.02 to 2.81; Tau² = 0.00, I² = 0%) but not for the comparison of misoprostol versus other uterotonics (17 studies; average RR 1.50, 95% CI 0.50 to 4.52; Tau² = 1.81, I² = 69%). When we excluded hyperpyrexia from the composite outcome in exploratory analyses, there was no significant difference in either of these comparisons.Pyrexia > 38°C was increased with misoprostol compared with controls (56 studies, 2776/25,647 (10.8%) versus 614/26,800 (2.3%); average RR 3.97, 95% CI 3.13 to 5.04; Tau² = 0.47, I² = 80%). The effect was greater for trials using misoprostol 600 µg or more (27 studies; 2197/17,864 (12.3%) versus 422/18,161 (2.3%); average RR 4.64; 95% CI 3.33 to 6.46; Tau² = 0.51, I² = 86%) than for those using misoprostol 400 µg or less (31 studies; 525/6751 (7.8%) versus 185/7668 (2.4%); average RR 3.07; 95% CI 2.25 to 4.18; Tau² = 0.29, I² = 58%).

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Misoprostol does not appear to increase or reduce severe morbidity (excluding hyperpyrexia) when used to prevent or treat PPH. Misoprostol did not increase or decrease maternal mortality. However, misoprostol is associated with an increased risk of pyrexia, particularly in dosages of 600 µg or more. Given that misoprostol is used prophylactically in very large numbers of healthy women, the greatest emphasis should be placed on limiting adverse effects. In this context, the findings of this review support the use of the lowest effective dose. As for any new medication being used on a large scale, continued vigilance for adverse effects is essential and there is a need for large randomised trials to further elucidate both the relative effectiveness and the risks of various dosages of misoprostol.

Misoprostol to reduce intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage during cesarean delivery: a systematic review and metaanalysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of prophylactic misoprostol use at cesarean delivery for reducing intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage.

STUDY DESIGN

Systematic review and metaanalysis of randomized controlled trials.

RESULTS

Seventeen studies (3174 women) were included of which 7 evaluated misoprostol vs oxytocin and 8 evaluated misoprostol plus oxytocin vs oxytocin alone. Overall, there were no significant differences in intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage between sublingual or oral misoprostol and oxytocin. Rectal misoprostol, compared with oxytocin, was associated with a significant reduction in intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage. The combined use of sublingual misoprostol and oxytocin, compared with the use of oxytocin alone, was associated with a significant reduction in the mean decrease in hematocrit (mean difference, -2.1%; 95% confidence interval, -3.4 to -0.8) and use of additional uterotonic agents (relative risk, 0.33; 95% confidence interval, 0.18-0.62). Compared with oxytocin alone, buccal misoprostol plus oxytocin reduced the use of additional uterotonic agents; rectal misoprostol plus oxytocin decreased intraoperative and postoperative blood loss, mean fall in hematocrit, and use of additional uterotonic agents; and intrauterine misoprostol plus oxytocin reduced the mean fall in hemoglobin and hematocrit. Women receiving misoprostol, alone or combined with oxytocin, had a higher risk of shivering and pyrexia.

CONCLUSION

Misoprostol combined with oxytocin appears to be more effective than oxytocin alone in reducing intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage during cesarean section. There were no significant differences in intraoperative and postoperative hemorrhage when misoprostol was compared to oxytocin. However, these findings were based on a few trials with methodological limitations.

Prostaglandins for preventing postpartum haemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Prostaglandins have mainly been used for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) when other measures fail. Misoprostol, a new and inexpensive prostaglandin E1 analogue, has been suggested as an alternative for routine management of the third stage of labour.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of prophylactic prostaglandin use in the third stage of labour.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (7 January 2011). We updated this search on 25 May 2012 and added the results to the awaiting classification section.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised trials comparing a prostaglandin agent with another uterotonic or no prophylactic uterotonic (nothing or placebo) as part of management of the third stage of labour. The primary outcomes were blood loss 1000 mL or more and the use of additional uterotonics.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed eligibility and trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 72 trials (52,678 women). Oral or sublingual misoprostol compared with placebo is effective in reducing severe PPH (oral: seven trials, 6225 women, not totalled due to significant heterogeneity; sublingual: risk ratio (RR) 0.66; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45 to 0.98; one trial, 661 women) and blood transfusion (oral: RR 0.31; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.94; four trials, 3519 women).Compared with conventional injectable uterotonics, oral misoprostol was associated with higher risk of severe PPH (RR 1.33; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.52; 17 trials, 29,797 women) and use of additional uterotonics, but with a trend to fewer blood transfusions (RR 0.84; 95% CI 0.66 to 1.06; 15 trials; 28,213 women). Additional uterotonic data were not totalled due to heterogeneity. Misoprostol use is associated with significant increases in shivering and a temperature of 38º Celsius compared with both placebo and other uterotonics.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Oral or sublingual misoprostol shows promising results when compared with placebo in reducing blood loss after delivery. The margin of benefit may be affected by whether other components of the management of the third stage of labour are used or not. As side-effects are dose-related, research should be directed towards establishing the lowest effective dose for routine use, and the optimal route of administration.Neither intramuscular prostaglandins nor misoprostol are preferable to conventional injectable uterotonics as part of the management of the third stage of labour especially for low-risk women; however, evidence has been building for the use of oral misoprostol to be effective and safe in areas with low access to facilities and skilled healthcare providers and future research on misoprostol use in the community should focus on implementation issues.

Sublingual misoprostol to reduce blood loss at cesarean delivery

OBJECTIVE

This prospective randomized controlled study was carried out with the purpose of assessing the efficacy of sublingual misoprostol in decreasing intraoperative blood loss and the need for additional uterotonic agents at cesarean delivery.

METHODS

One hundred seventy-four women undergoing elective or emergency cesarean delivery were assigned randomly to receive either 400 μg misoprostol or placebo sublingually at the time of cord clamping. An intravenous infusion of 20 units of oxytocin was started in all women at the same time. The primary outcome measures were intraoperative blood loss, need for additional uterotonic agents, and perioperative hemoglobin (Hb) fall.

RESULTS

The maternal demographic factors, indications for cesarean delivery, and high-risk factors were similar between the two groups. Mean intraoperative blood loss was significantly less in misoprostol group as compared with placebo group (595 ± 108 vs. 651 ± 118 ml, P = 0.025). Fewer women needed additional uterotonic agents in misoprostol group (22.2 vs. 42.8 %; P = 0.0035; RR 0.52, 95 % CI 0.33-0.82). Perioperative Hb fall was significantly less in misoprostol group (0.87 ± 0.29 vs. 1.01 ± 0.26 g, P = 0.0018).

CONCLUSION

Sublingual misoprostol decreases intraoperative blood loss and the need for additional uterotonic agents at cesarean delivery.

Oxytocin bolus versus oxytocin bolus and infusion for control of blood loss at elective caesarean section: double blind, placebo controlled, randomised trial

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effects of adding an oxytocin infusion to bolus oxytocin on blood loss at elective caesarean section.

DESIGN

Double blind, placebo controlled, randomised trial, conducted from February 2008 to June 2010.

SETTING

Five maternity hospitals in the Republic of Ireland.

PARTICIPANTS

2069 women booked for elective caesarean section at term with a singleton pregnancy. We excluded women with placenta praevia, thrombocytopenia, coagulopathies, previous major obstetric haemorrhage (>1000 mL), or known fibroids; women receiving anticoagulant treatment; those who did not understand English; and those who were younger than 18 years.

INTERVENTION

Intervention group: intravenous slow 5 IU oxytocin bolus over 1 minute and additional 40 IU oxytocin infusion in 500 mL of 0.9% saline solution over 4 hours (bolus and infusion). Placebo group: 5 IU oxytocin bolus over 1 minute and 500 mL of 0.9% saline solution over 4 hours (placebo infusion) (bolus only). Main outcomes Major obstetric haemorrhage (blood loss >1000 mL) and need for an additional uterotonic agent.

RESULTS

We found no difference in the occurrence of major obstetric haemorrhage between the groups (bolus and infusion 15.7% (158/1007) v bolus only 16.0% (159/994), adjusted odds ratio 0.98, 95% confidence intervals 0.77 to 1.25, P=0.86). The need for an additional uterotonic agent in the bolus and infusion group was lower than that in the bolus only group (12.2% (126/1033) v 18.4% (189/1025), 0.61, 0.48 to 0.78, P<0.001). Women were less likely to have a major obstetric haemorrhage in the bolus and infusion group than in the bolus only group if the obstetrician was junior rather than senior (0.57, 0.35 to 0.92, P=0.02).

CONCLUSION

The addition of an oxytocin infusion after caesarean delivery reduces the need for additional uterotonic agents but does not affect the overall occurrence of major obstetric haemorrhage. Trial Registration Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN17813715.

Study protocol. ECSSIT - Elective Caesarean Section Syntocinon Infusion Trial. A multi-centre randomised controlled trial of oxytocin (Syntocinon) 5 IU bolus and placebo infusion versus oxytocin 5 IU bolus and 40 IU infusion for the control of blood loss at elective caesarean section

BACKGROUND

Caesarean section is one of the most commonly performed major operations in women throughout the world. Rates are escalating, with studies from the United States of America, the United Kingdom, China and the Republic of Ireland reporting rates between 20% and 25%. Operative morbidity includes haemorrhage, anaemia, blood transfusion and in severe cases, maternal death. The value of routine oxytocics in the third stage of vaginal birth has been well established and it has been assumed that these benefits apply to caesarean delivery as well. A slow bolus dose of oxytocin is recommended following delivery of the baby at caesarean section. Some clinicians use an additional infusion of oxytocin for a further period following the procedure. Intravenous oxytocin has a very short half-life (4-10 minutes) therefore the potential advantage of an oxytocin infusion is that it maintains uterine contractility throughout the surgical procedure and immediate postpartum period, when most primary haemorrhages occur. The few trials to date addressing the optimal approach to preventing haemorrhage at caesarean section have been under-powered to evaluate clinically important outcomes. There has been no trial to date comparing the use of an intravenous slow bolus of oxytocin versus an oxytocin bolus and infusion.

METHODS AND DESIGN

A multi-centre randomised controlled trial is proposed. The study will take place in five large maternity units in Ireland with collaboration between academics and clinicians in the disciplines of obstetrics and anaesthetics. It will involve 2000 women undergoing elective caesarean section after 36 weeks gestation. The main outcome measure will be major haemorrhage (blood loss >1000 ml). A study involving 2000 women will have 80% power to detect a 36% relative change in the risk of major haemorrhage with two-sided 5% alpha.

DISCUSSION

It is both important and timely that we evaluate the optimal approach to the management of the third stage at elective caesarean section. Safe operative delivery is now a priority and a reality for many pregnant women. Obstetricians, obstetric anaesthetists, midwives and pregnant women need high quality evidence on which to base management approaches. The overall aim is to reduce maternal haemorrhagic morbidity and its attendant risks at elective caesarean section.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

number: ISRCTN17813715.

Use of oxytocin to prevent haemorrhage at caesarean section—A survey of practice in the United Kingdom

OBJECTIVE

To establish the views and current practice of obstetricians and anaesthetists with regard to the use of oxytocin to prevent haemorrhage at caesarean section.

STUDY DESIGN

A national survey of all lead consultant obstetricians and anaesthetists for the labour ward in the United Kingdom. A postal questionnaire was sent to all clinicians with one subsequent reminder to non-responders. The use of oxytocin bolus and infusion, perceived side effects of intravenous oxytocin, estimated blood loss at caesarean section, and willingness to participate in a future clinical trial were explored.

RESULTS

The response rate was 84% (365 respondents). A slow bolus of 5 IU oxytocin was the preferred approach of obstetricians and anaesthetists (153, 86% and 171, 92%, respectively). Oxytocin infusions were used routinely by 72 clinicians (20%) with selective use for particular clinical circumstances by 289 (80%). Most clinicians used either 30 IU (158, 43%) or 40 IU (192, 53%) infusions over 4h, with a total of 38 different regimens. The perceived risk of side effects with an oxytocin infusion was low. Estimated "average" blood loss varied (150-1,500 ml) with 56 clinicians (17%) and 93 (28%) reporting a >20% risk of postpartum haemorrhage for elective and emergency caesarean sections, respectively.

CONCLUSION

There is wide variation in the use of oxytocin at caesarean section reflecting limited research in this area. Excess haemorrhage is considered to occur frequently and the perceived risk of oxytocin bolus and infusion is low. Further research is required addressing the optimal use of oxytocic agents at caesarean section.

Prostaglandins for preventing postpartum haemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Prostaglandins have mainly been used for postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) when other measures fail. Misoprostol, a new and inexpensive prostaglandin E1 analogue, has been suggested as an alternative for routine management of the third stage of labour.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of prophylactic prostaglandin use in the third stage of labour.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (February 2007) and PubMed (July 2006).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized trials comparing a prostaglandin agent with another uterotonic or no prophylactic uterotonic (nothing or placebo) as part of management of the third stage of labour. The primary outcomes were blood loss 1000 ml or more and the use of additional uterotonics.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed eligibility and trial quality and extracted data.

MAIN RESULTS

Thirty-seven misoprostol and nine intramuscular prostaglandin trials (42,621 women) were included. Oral (seven trials, 2849 women) or sublingual misoprostol (relative risk (RR) 0.66; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.45 to 0.98; one trial, 661 women) compared to placebo may be effective in reducing severe PPH and blood transfusion (RR 0.31; 95% CI 0.10 to 0.94; five oral misoprostol trials, 3519 women). The severe PPH analysis of oral misoprostol trials was not totalled due to significant heterogeneity. Compared to conventional injectable uterotonics, oral misoprostol was associated with higher risk of severe PPH (RR 1.32; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.51; 16 trials, 29,042 women) and use of additional uterotonics but with fewer blood transfusions (RR 0.81; 95% CI 0.64 to 1.02; 15 trials, 27,858 women). Additional uterotonic data were not totalled due to heterogeneity. Misoprostol use is associated with significant increases in shivering and a temperature of 38 degrees Celsius. There are scarce data comparing injectable prostaglandins with the conventional injectable uterotonics on severe PPH and the use of additional uterotonics, the primary outcomes of this review.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Misoprostol orally or sublingually at a dose of 600 mcg shows promising results when compared to placebo in reducing blood loss after delivery. The margin of benefit may be affected by whether other components of management of the third stage of labour are used or not. As side-effects are dose-related, research should be directed towards establishing the lowest effective dose for routine use, and the optimal route of administration. Neither intramuscular prostaglandins nor misoprostol are preferable to conventional injectable uterotonics as part of the management of the third stage of labour especially for low-risk women.

Transfusion vs. alternative treatment modalities in acute bleeding: a systematic review

BACKGROUND AND METHODS

The practice of transfusion varies a great deal between countries and hospitals. Therefore, a systematic literature review was performed to evaluate the evidence underlying practice of transfusion and alternative treatment modalities in acute bleeding. After a stepwise evaluation, 79 out of 2438 abstracts were approved as the evidence base.

RESULTS

Albumin for volume therapy is not better than artificial colloids or crystalloids and may be detrimental in trauma patients. No outcome difference has been proved between artificial colloids and crystalloids. Use of hypertonic solutions remains controversial, as do the concepts of delayed and hypotensive resuscitation. Healthy individuals tolerate acute, normovolaemic anaemia at 5 g haemoglobin/dl, but pre-operative haemoglobin < 6 g/dl gives increased mortality from surgical interventions. Keeping haemoglobin higher than 8-9 g/dl has not been associated with any positive effect on mortality or morbidity, even in patients with cardiovascular disease. The changes induced in erythrocytes by storage may be clinically insignificant. No alternative to erythrocyte transfusion was established. Evidence underlying the practice of thrombocyte and plasma transfusion is scarce. Available evidence on recombinant coagulation factor VIIa is insufficient to define its future role in acute bleedings. Antifibrinolytic drugs in general seem to reduce the need for transfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Intravenous volume replacement and transfusion policies seem largely based on local tradition and expert opinions. As a result of the difficulties in performing controlled studies in patients with acute bleeding and the large number of patients needed to prove effects, other scientific evidence should be sought to better define best practice in this important field.

Oral misoprostol vs. intravenous oxytocin in reducing blood loss after emergency cesarean delivery

OBJECTIVE

To compare the effectiveness of oral misoprostol and intravenous oxytocin in reducing blood loss in women undergoing indicated or elective cesarean delivery (CD) under spinal anesthesia.

METHODS

In this prospective, double-blind pilot study, 56 parturients who received 5 IU of intravenous oxytocin after cord clamping were randomized to further receive either misoprostol orally and a placebo infusion intravenously or placebo orally and an oxytocin infusion intravenously.

RESULTS

After adjustment was made for the sonographically estimated amniotic fluid volume, there was no statistical difference in blood loss between the 2 groups (mean+/-S.D., 1083+/-920 mL in the oxytocin group vs. 970+/-560 mL in the misoprostol group; P=.59).

CONCLUSION

Oxytocin followed by oral misoprostol is as effective as an oxytocin injection followed by an oxytocin infusion in reducing postoperative blood loss after CD, and the protocol may be a safe, valuable, and cost-effective alternative to oxytocin alone. Visual estimation of intraoperative blood loss undervalues the effective value of misoprostol use by 30%.

General gynaecology: Effect of uterotonics on intra-operative blood loss during laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy: a randomised controlled trial

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of uterotonics misoprostol and oxytocin on reducing blood loss during laparoscopy-assisted vaginal hysterectomy (LAVH).

DESIGN

Randomised, double-blind placebo-controlled trial.

SETTING

University hospital.

POPULATION

One hundred and seventy-three women underwent LAVH for symptomatic uterine myomas and were randomly allocated to uterotonics (n = 91) or placebo (n = 82).

METHODS

Women underwent LAVH for symptomatic uterine myomas and were randomly assigned to receive either rectal misoprostol (400 microg) and intravenous oxytocin (10 IU/hour) or placebo during LAVH. Parameters related to surgical outcome were compared.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

The main outcome measure was intra-operative blood loss.

RESULTS

Patient characteristics and indications for LAVH were similar in both groups. Mean [SD] for all continuous data estimated weight of blood loss (198.1 [123.2] vs 396 [337.6] g; P < 0.0001), mean operation time (106.2 [39.4] vs 116.6 [34.6] minutes; P = 0.02), mean change in haemoglobin (1.5 [1.0] vs 1.9 [1.2] g/dL; P = 0.02) and haematocrit levels (4.8 [2.9]% vs 5.8 [3.6]%; P = 0.04) and mean hospitalisation period (3.3 [0.8] vs 3.9 [1.1] days; P < 0.0001), which were significantly less in the group given rectal misoprostol and intravenous oxytocin than in the placebo group, respectively. There was no significant difference in complications and side effects between the two groups (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Combined rectal misoprostol and intravenous oxytocin is a feasible and effective method of reducing blood loss and operation time in LAVH.

Misoprostol in preventing postpartum hemorrhage: A meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To assess misoprostol's ability to prevent postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) where no alternatives exist. Comparison to oxytocics demonstrates how similarly misoprostol achieves a level of effectiveness-obtainable only in hospitals-in remote locations around the world.

METHOD

Using the Mantel-Haenszel fixed-effects model and the DerSirmonian and Laird random-effects model, summary statistics indicated that misoprostol's excess risk of PPH was only 4% when compared to oxytocics.

RESULT

This risk difference was well within the range of expected results for all uterotonic agents and does not warrant branding misoprostol as an inferior drug.

CONCLUSION

Conventional uterotonic drugs should not be used to set the lowest-accepted level of effectiveness in settings where they are entirely unsuitable. Continuing to weigh the benefits of one effective drug against another only delays the distribution of misoprostol in countries where it is the only feasible choice and must be measured against no treatment at all.

Buccal misoprostol to prevent hemorrhage at cesarean delivery: a randomized study

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the efficacy of buccal misoprostol to decrease uterine atony, hemorrhage, and the need for additional uterotonic agents during cesarean delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients who underwent cesarean delivery were assigned randomly to either 200-microg misoprostol or placebo placed in the buccal space. A dilute intravenous oxytocin infusion was given to all patients at delivery of the placenta. The primary outcome variable was the need for additional uterotonic agents.

RESULTS

A total of 352 women received random assignments. Demographic and intrapartum characteristics were similar between the groups. More women in the placebo group required 1 additional uterotonic agent (43% vs 26%; P < .01; relative risk, 1.3; 95% CI, 1.10, 1.50). There was not a difference between the groups in the incidence of postpartum hemorrhage or a difference in preoperative and postoperative hemoglobin level.

CONCLUSION

Buccal misoprostol reduces the need for additional uterotonic agents during cesarean delivery.

Does the route of administration of misoprostol make a difference? The uterotonic effect and side effects of misoprostol given by different routes after vaginal delivery

OBJECTIVE

To compare the postpartum uterotonic effect and side effects of misoprostol administered by different routes.

STUDY DESIGN

Fifty women were given misoprostol 400 microg either by the oral solution, oral tablet, rectal or vaginal route, or intramuscular syntometrine 1 ml after spontaneous vaginal delivery. Pre- and post-treatment uterine activity were measured with intrauterine pressure catheters.

RESULTS

Uterine activity produced by oral solution misoprostol 400 microg was significantly higher than that of oral tablet, rectal and vaginal misoprostol (P = 0.004, 0.002, respectively). Onset of action after oral solution misoprostol was faster than by the oral tablet (P = 0.01), rectal (P < 0.001) and vaginal (P< 0.001) routes. Shivering and pyrexia were most common with oral solution misoprostol. Maximum body temperature recorded was significantly higher with oral solution misoprostol than with oral tablet, rectal and vaginal misoprostol (P = 0.009, 0.001, respectively).

CONCLUSION

Different routes of administering misoprostol greatly influence the effects achieved. Oral solution misoprostol produces the fastest and strongest uterotonic effect, with the most side effects.

Misoprostol and pregnancy: ever-increasing indications of effective usage

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The subject of misoprostol in the field of reproductive health care has courted much controversy. The aim of this review is to survey the literature published in this field over the past year, and to evaluate developments in this area. This article will cover termination of pregnancy, induction of labor and the issue of postpartum hemorrhage.

RECENT FINDINGS

The use of misoprostol as a single agent remains of clinical value when mifepristone is unavailable. The sublingual and rectal routes are alternative modes of administration. For induction of labor, the optimum dose and route of misoprostol is still undetermined. Lower doses of between 20 microg to 40 microg may increase the safety profile for labor induction. Misoprostol may be a useful adjunct to the therapeutic options available for the prevention and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage.

SUMMARY

There are many potential uses for misoprostol in pregnancy. However clinicians must judge the evidence and the emotive debate surrounding this field and decide how it will influence their clinical practice depending on the priorities of their own clinical circumstances.

Misoprostol: A Quarter Century of Use, Abuse, and Creative Misuse

Misoprostol is a prostaglandin E1 analog originally intended for use to prevent NSAID-induced gastric ulcers. However, because of its cervical ripening and uterotonic property, misoprostol has become one of the most useful drugs in obstetrics and gynecology. Misoprostol has proven to be a very convenient and flexible drug because of its formulation as a tablet that is stable and that can be administered orally, rectally, vaginally and by the sublingual route. Beginning with its abuse for illegal abortion in the late 1980s, misoprostol has quickly become established as one of the most effective drugs for terminating pregnancies in the first and second trimesters, as well as for inducing labor in the third trimester. Its use for routine prevention of postpartum hemorrhage has not been so successful, partly as the high doses required for this indication often result in troublesome side effects. Despite the large body of medical evidence about its efficacy and relative safety, the use of misoprostol in pregnant women remained off-label until the spring of 2002.

Do prophylactic prostaglandins reduce the transfusion rate at cesarean section in high-order multiple pregnancies?

OBJECTIVE

Cesarean section is the more usual mode of delivery in high-order multiple pregnancy (> or =3). Excessive uterine distension increases the risk of bleeding and the need for transfusion. The aim of this study was to investigate if prophylactic use of prostaglandins at cesarean section for high-order multiple pregnancies reduces blood loss and transfusion requirement based on historic data.

STUDY DESIGN

We studied a prospective series of 28 parturients with high-order multiple pregnancy (group 2) who were treated, after clamping the last umbilical cord, with oxytocin (5IU intravenous then 35IU in a 24h infusion) combined with intravenous prostaglandin. A comparable retrospective series of 14 patients (group 1) had been given oxytocin alone at the same dose. Postoperative serum hemoglobin and transfusion rate as well as adverse effects were compared between the two groups. Student's t-test was used to compare continuous variables. Chi square test and Fisher exact test were used to compare categorical variables.

RESULTS

The two groups were comparable for anthropometric data and duration of pregnancy. None of the patients in group 2 required red cell transfusion while 21.4% of those in group 1 required transfusion. A significant lower decrease of postoperative haemoglobin is noted in group 2 (P=0.0006). Multivariate analysis using variables significant at univariate analysis and pre-eclampsia confirmed this difference. There were no adverse reactions to treatment.

CONCLUSION

In our experience, prophylactic prostaglandin infusion at cesarean section in high-order multiple pregnancy is associated with a lower need for per operative red cell transfusion and a higher postoperative hemoglobin level. This observation merits confirmation in larger studies.

Prostaglandins for prevention of postpartum haemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Prostaglandins have mainly been used for postpartum haemorrhage when other measures fail. Misoprostol, a new and inexpensive prostaglandin E1 analogue, has been suggested as an alternative for routine management of the third stage of labour.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of prophylactic prostaglandin use in the third stage of labour.

SEARCH STRATEGY

The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register (March 2003).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomized or quasi-randomized trials comparing a prostaglandin agent with another uterotonic or no prophylactic uterotonic (nothing or placebo) as part of management of the third stage of labour. There were no language preferences.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Eligibility, trial quality and data extraction were done by two reviewers independently.

MAIN RESULTS

Twenty-four misoprostol and eight intramuscular prostaglandin trials (34,203 participants) were included. The data comparing oral misoprostol to no uterotonics/placebo are from five trials and difficult to interpret because of the heterogeneity between trials. However, the data do not suggest a substantive reduction in the rate of postpartum haemorrhage or other measures of blood loss. Oral misoprostol 600 mcg shows clinically and statistically significantly more blood loss = 1000 ml compared with conventional injectable uterotonics (seven trials, 22,749 women, 3.6% versus 2.7%; relative risk (RR) 1.34, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16 to 1.55). Shivering and elevated body temperature (> 38 masculine C) are the main side-effects of misoprostol and are dose related (600 mcg versus 400 mcg: shivering - two trials, RR: 1.33; 95% CI: 1.07 to 1.64). Compared to oxytocin the RR of any shivering with 600 mcg oral misoprostol is 3.29 (seven trials, 22746 women; 19.7% versus 6.0%, 95% CI 3.03 to 3.56) and temperature greater than 38 masculine C is RR 6.78 (seven trials, 22,09 women; 6.3% versus, 95% CI 5.55 to 8.30). Injectable prostaglandins are associated with reduced mean blood loss in the third stage of labour (weighted mean difference -70 ml, 95% CI -73 to -67 ml) when compared to conventional injectable uterotonics but have more side-effects. There are scarce data from this comparison on severe postpartum haemorrhage and the use of additional uterotonics, the primary outcomes of this review.

REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS

Neither intramuscular prostaglandins nor misoprostol are preferable to conventional injectable uterotonics as part of the active management of the third stage of labour especially for low-risk women. Future research on prostaglandin use after birth should focus on the treatment of postpartum haemorrhage rather than prevention where they seem to be more promising.

Misoprostol use during the third stage of labor

OBJECTIVES

To systematically review the efficacy of misoprostol compared with placebo or other uterotonics in preventing maternal morbidity associated with the third stage of labor.

METHODS

We identified, retrieved, evaluated, abstracted data, and assessed the quality of all published studies (from January 1996 to May 2002) which assessed misoprostol's efficacy in minimizing uterine blood loss during the third stage of labor. Seventeen studies included 28170 subjects; of these, approximately one-half received misoprostol with the remainder receiving either a placebo or another uterotonic agent. An estimate of the odds ratio (OR) and risk difference for dichotomous outcomes was calculated using a random- and fixed-effects model. Continuous outcomes were pooled using a variance-weighted average of within-study difference in means.

RESULTS

In assessing studies comparing misoprostol with placebo, those who received oral misoprostol had a decreased risk of needing additional uterotonics (OR 0.64, 95% confidence interval 0.46, 0.90). Compared with placebo, use of misoprostol was associated with an increased risk for shivering and pyrexia. In contrast, in studies comparing misoprostol with oxytocin, oxytocin was associated with significantly lower rates of postpartum hemorrhage, maternal shivering and pyrexia. In studies comparing misoprostol with Syntometrine, misoprostol was associated with higher rates of the need for additional uterotonic agent as well as shivering.

CONCLUSIONS

Misoprostol was inferior to oxytocin and other uterotonics with regard to any of the third stage of labor outcomes assessed. However, when compared to placebo, misoprostol had a decreased risk of needing additional uterotonics. Thus, in less-developed countries where administration of parenteral uterotonic drugs may be problematic, misoprostol represents a reasonable agent for the management of the third stage of labor. Additional randomized clinical trials examining objective outcome measures (i.e. need for blood transfusion or 10% hemoglobin change) may further define benefits and risks of misoprostol use during the third stage of labor.