Factors Associated with Increased Risk of Urosepsis during Pregnancy and Treatment Outcomes, in a Urology Clinic

Background and Objectives: Urosepsis is a significant cause of maternal and fetal mortality. While certain risk factors for urinary tract infections (UTIs) in pregnant women are well established, those associated with an elevated risk of urosepsis in pregnant women with upper UTIs remain less defined. This study aims to identify factors linked to an increased risk of urosepsis and examine urologic treatment outcomes in such cases. Materials and Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis on 66 pregnant women diagnosed with urosepsis over a nine-year period. A control group included 164 pregnant women with upper UTIs, excluding urosepsis, admitted during the same timeframe. This study highlights factors potentially contributing to urosepsis risk, including comorbidities like anemia, pregnancy-related hydronephrosis or secondary to reno-ureteral lithiasis, prior UTIs, coexisting urological conditions, and urologic procedures. Outcomes of urologic treatments, hospitalization duration, obstetric transfers due to fetal distress, and complications associated with double-J catheters were analyzed. Results: Pregnant women with urosepsis exhibited a higher prevalence of anemia (69.7% vs. 50.0%, p = 0.006), 2nd-3rd grade hydronephrosis (81.8% vs. 52.8%, p = 0.001), and fever over 38 °C (89.4% vs. 42.1%, p = 0.001). They also had a more intense inflammatory syndrome (leukocyte count 18,191 ± 6414 vs. 14,350 ± 3860/mmc, p = 0.001, and C-reactive protein (CRP) 142.70 ± 83.50 vs. 72.76 ± 66.37 mg/dL, p = 0.001) and higher creatinine levels (0.77 ± 0.81 vs. 0.59 ± 0.22, p = 0.017). On multivariate analysis, factors associated with increased risk for urosepsis were anemia (Odds Ratio (OR) 2.622, 95% CI 1.220-5.634), 2nd-3rd grade hydronephrosis (OR 6.581, 95% CI 2.802-15.460), and fever over 38 °C (OR 11.612, 95% CI 4.804-28.07). Regarding outcomes, the urosepsis group had a higher rate of urological maneuvers (87.9% vs. 36%, p = 0.001), a higher rate of obstetric transfers due to fetal distress (22.7% vs. 1.2%, p = 0.001), and migration of double-J catheters (6.1% vs. 0.6%, p = 0.016), but no maternal fatality was encountered. However, they experienced the same rate of total complications related to double-J catheters (19.69% vs. 12.80%, p > 0.05). The pregnant women in both groups had the infection more frequently on the right kidney, were in the second trimester and were nulliparous. Conclusions: Pregnant women at increased risk for urosepsis include those with anemia, hydronephrosis due to gestational, or reno-ureteral lithiasis, and fever over 38 °C. While the prognosis for pregnant women with urosepsis is generally favorable, urological intervention may not prevent a higher incidence of fetal distress and the need for obstetric transfers compared to pregnant women with uncomplicated upper UTIs.

Risk factors for seizures in the vigorous term neonate: A population-based register study of singleton births in Sweden

Background

Neonatal seizures have been associated with increased mortality and impaired neurodevelopment and, knowledge about risk factors may be useful for prevention. Clear associations have been established between labor-related risk factors and seizures in asphyxiated neonates. However, there is limited information about why some vigorous term-born infants experience seizures.

Objectives

Our aim was to assess antepartum and intrapartum risk factors for seizures in vigorous term-born neonates.

Methods

This was a national cohort study of singleton infants born at term in Sweden from 2009–2015. Vigorous was defined as an Apgar score of at least 7 at 5 and 10 minutes. Data on the mothers and infants were obtained from the Swedish Medical Birth Register and the Swedish Neonatal Quality Register. A diagnosis of neonatal seizures was the main outcome measure and the exposures were pregnancy and labor variables. Logistic regression analysis was used and the results are expressed as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

The incidence of neonatal seizures was 0.81/1,000 for 656 088 births. Seizures were strongly associated with obstetric emergencies (aOR 4.0, 95% CI 2.2–7.4), intrapartum fever and/or chorioamnionitis (aOR 3.4, 95% CI 2.1–5.3), and intrapartum fetal distress (aOR 3.0, 95% CI 2.4–3.7). Other associated intrapartum factors were: labor dystocia, occiput posterior position, operative vaginal delivery, and Cesarean delivery. Some maternal factors more than doubled the risk: a body mass of more than 40 (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.4–4.8), hypertensive disorders (aOR 2.3, 95% CI 1.7–3.1) and diabetes mellitus (aOR 2.6, 95% CI 1.7–4.1).

Conclusion

A number of intrapartum factors were associated with an increased risk of seizures in vigorous term-born neonates. Obstetric emergencies, intrapartum fever and/or chorioamnionitis and fetal distress were the strongest associated risks. The presence of such factors, despite a reassuring Apgar score could prompt close surveillance.

Placental Abnormalities and Placenta-Related Complications Following In-Vitro Fertilization: Based on National Hospitalized Data in China

INTRODUCTION

Emerging evidence has shown that in-vitro fertilization (IVF) is associated with higher risks of certain placental abnormalities or complications, such as placental abruption, preeclampsia, and preterm birth. However, there is a lack of large population-based analysis focusing on placental abnormalities or complications following IVF treatment. This study aimed to estimate the absolute risk of placental abnormalities or complications during IVF-conceived pregnancy.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 16 535 852 singleton pregnancies with delivery outcomes in China between 2013 and 2018, based on the Hospital Quality Monitoring System databases. Main outcomes included placental abnormalities (placenta previa, placental abruption, placenta accrete, and abnormal morphology of placenta) and placenta-related complications (gestational hypertension, preeclampsia, eclampsia, preterm birth, fetal distress, and fetal growth restriction (FGR)). Poisson regression modeling with restricted cubic splines of exact maternal age was used to estimate the absolute risk in both the IVF and non-IVF groups.

RESULTS

The IVF group (n = 183 059) was more likely than the non-IVF group (n = 16 352 793) to present placenta previa (aRR: 1.87 [1.83-1.91]), placental abruption (aRR: 1.16 [1.11-1.21]), placenta accrete (aRR: 2.00 [1.96-2.04]), abnormal morphology of placenta (aRR: 2.12 [2.07 to 2.16]), gestational hypertension (aRR: 1.55 [1.51-1.59]), preeclampsia (aRR: 1.54 [1.51-1.57]), preterm birth (aRR: 1.48 [1.46-1.51]), fetal distress (aRR: 1.39 [1.37-1.42]), and FGR (aRR: 1.36 [1.30-1.42]), but no significant difference in eclampsia (aRR: 0.91 [0.80-1.04]) was found. The absolute risk of each outcome with increasing maternal age in both the IVF and non-IVF group presented two patterns: an upward curve showing in placenta previa, placenta accreta, abnormal morphology of placenta, and gestational hypertension; and a J-shape curve showing in placental abruption, preeclampsia, eclampsia, preterm birth, fetal distress, and FGR.

CONCLUSION

IVF is an independent risk factor for placental abnormalities and placental-related complications, and the risk is associated with maternal age. Further research is needed to evaluate the long-term placenta-related chronic diseases of IVF patients and their offspring.

Risk Factors for Intrapartum Cesarean Section Delivery in Low-risk Multiparous Women Following at Least a Prior Vaginal Birth (Robson Classification 3 and 4)

OBJECTIVE

 The aim of the present study was to evaluate the risk factors for cesarean section (C-section) in low-risk multiparous women with a history of vaginal birth.

METHODS

 The present retrospective study included low-risk multiparous women with a history of vaginal birth who gave birth at between 37 and 42 gestational weeks. The subjects were divided into 2 groups according to the mode of delivery, as C-section Group and vaginal delivery Group. Risk factors for C-section such as demographic characteristics, ultrasonographic measurements, smoking, weight gain during pregnancy (WGDP), interval time between prior birth, history of macrosomic birth, and cervical dilatation at the admission to the hospital were obtained from the charts of the patients. Obstetric and neonatal outcomes were compared between groups.

RESULTS

 The most common C-section indications were fetal distress and macrosomia (33.9% [n = 77 and 20.7% [n = 47] respectively). A bivariate correlation analysis demonstrated that mothers aged > 30 years old (odds ratio [OR]: 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.30-3.34; p = 0.002), parity >1 (OR: 1.81; 95%CI: 1.18-2.71; p = 0.006), fetal abdominal circumference (FAC) measurement > 360 mm (OR: 34.20; 95%CI: 8.04-145.56; p < 0.001)) and < 345 mm (OR: 3.06; 95%CI: 1.88-5; p < 0.001), presence of large for gestational age (LGA) fetus (OR: 5.09; 95%CI: 1.35-19.21; p = 0.016), premature rupture of membranes (PROM) (OR: 1.52; 95%CI: 1-2.33; p = 0.041), and cervical dilatation < 5cm at admission (OR: 2.12; 95%CI: 1.34-3.34; p = 0.001) were associated with the group requiring a C-section.

CONCLUSION

 This is the first study evaluating the risk factors for C-section in low-risk multiparous women with a history of vaginal birth according to the Robson classification 3 and 4. Fetal distress and suspected fetal macrosomia constituted most of the C-section indications.

Hemodynamic factors associated with fetal cardiac remodeling in late fetal growth restriction: a prospective study

Background Altered cardiac geometry affects a proportion of fetuses with growth restriction (FGR). The aim of this study was to explore the hemodynamic factors associated with cardiac remodeling in late FGR. Methods This was a prospective study of singleton pregnancies complicated by late-onset FGR undergoing assessment of left (LV) and right (RV) ventricular sphericity-index (SI). The study population was divided in two groups according to the presence of cardiac remodelling, defined as LVSI <5th centile. The following outcomes were explored: gestational age at birth, birthweight, caesarean section (CS) for fetal distress, umbilical artery (UA) pH and neonatal admission to special care unit. The differences between the 2 groups in UA pulsatility index (PI), middle cerebral artery (MCA) PI, uterine artery PI, cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) and umbilical vein (UV) flow corrected for fetal abdominal circumference (UVBF/AC) were tested. Results In total, 212 pregnancies with late FGR were enrolled in the study. An abnormal LV SI was detected in 119 fetuses (56.1%). Late FGR fetuses with cardiac remodeling had a lower birthweight (2390 g vs. 2490; P = 0.04) and umbilical artery pH (7.21 vs. 7.24; P = 0.04) and were more likely to have emergency CS (42.8% vs. 26.9%; P = 0.023) and admission to special care unit (13.4% vs. 4.3%; P = 0.03) compared to those with normal LVSI. No difference in either UA PI (p = 0.904), MCA PI (P = 0.575), CPR (P = 0.607) and mean uterine artery PI (P = 0.756) were present between fetuses with or without an abnormal LV SI. Conversely, UVBF/AC z-score was lower (-1.84 vs. -0.99; P ≤ 0.001) in fetuses with cardiac remodeling and correlated with LV (P ≤ 0.01) and RV SI (P ≤ 0.02). Conclusion Fetal cardiac remodelling occurs in a significant proportion of pregnancies complicated by late FGR and is affected by a high burden of short-term perinatal compromise. The occurrence of LV SI is independent from fetal arterial Dopplers while it is positively associated with umbilical vein blood flow.

Birth asphyxia following delayed recognition and response to abnormal labour progress and fetal distress in a 31-year-old multiparous Malawian woman

Reducing neonatal mortality is one of the targets of Sustainable Development Goal 3 on good health and well-being. The highest rates of neonatal death occur in sub-Saharan Africa. Birth asphyxia is one of the major preventable causes. Early detection and timely management of abnormal labour progress and fetal compromise are critical to reduce the global burden of birth asphyxia. Labour progress, maternal and fetal well-being are assessed using the WHO partograph and intermittent fetal heart rate monitoring. However, in low-resource settings adherence to labour guidelines and timely response to arising labour complications is generally poor. Reasons for this are multifactorial and include lack of resources and skilled health care staff. This case study in a Malawian hospital illustrates how delayed recognition of abnormal labour and prolonged decision-to-delivery interval contributed to birth asphyxia, as an example of many delivery rooms in low-income country settings.

Immediate versus deferred delivery of the preterm baby with suspected fetal compromise for improving outcomes

BACKGROUND

Immediate delivery of the preterm fetus with suspected compromise may decrease the risk of damage due to intrauterine hypoxia. However, it may also increase the risks of prematurity.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of immediate versus deferred delivery of preterm babies with suspected fetal compromise on neonatal, maternal and long-term outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (30 April 2016) and reference lists of retrieved studies.

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised trials comparing a policy of immediate delivery with deferred delivery or expectant management in preterm fetuses with suspected in utero compromise. Quasi-randomised trials and trials employing a cluster-randomised design were eligible for inclusion but none were identified.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently assessed trials for inclusion and risk of bias, extracted data and checked them for accuracy.

MAIN RESULTS

We included one trial of 548 women (588 babies) in the review. Women with pregnancies between 24 and 36 weeks' gestation took part. The study took place in 13 European countries, between 1993 and 2001. The difference in the median randomisation to delivery interval between immediate delivery and deferred delivery was four days (median: 0.9 (inter-quartile range (IQR) 0.4 to 1.3) days for immediate delivery, median: 4.9 (IQR 2.0 to 10.8) days in the delay group).There was no clear difference in the primary outcomes of extended perinatal mortality (risk ratio (RR) 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67 to 2.04, one trial, 587 babies, moderate-quality evidence) or the composite outcome of death or disability at or after two years of age (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.75, one trial, 573 babies, moderate-quality evidence) with immediate delivery compared to deferred delivery. The results for these outcomes are consistent with both appreciable benefit and harm. More babies in the immediate delivery group were ventilated for more than 24 hours (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.97, one trial, 576 babies). There were no differences between the immediate delivery and deferred delivery groups in any other infant mortality outcome (stillbirth, neonatal mortality, postneonatal mortality > 28 days to discharge), individual neonatal morbidity or markers of neonatal morbidity (cord pH less than 7.00, Apgar less than seven at five minutes, convulsions, interventricular haemorrhage or germinal matrix haemorrhage, necrotising enterocolitis and periventricular leucomalacia or ventriculomegaly).Some important outcomes were not reported, in particular infant admission to neonatal intensive care or special care facility, and respiratory distress syndrome. We were not able to calculate composite rates of serious neonatal morbidity, even though individual morbidities were reported, due to the risk of double counting infants with more than one morbidity.More children in the immediate delivery group had cerebral palsy at or after two years of age (RR 5.88, 95% CI 1.33 to 26.02, one trial, 507 children). There were, however, no differences in neurodevelopment impairment at or after two years (RR 1.72, 95% CI 0.86 to 3.41, one trial, 507 children), death at or after two years of age (RR 1.04, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.63, one trial, 573 children), or death or disability in childhood (six to 13 years of age) (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.40, one trial, 302 children). More women in the immediate delivery group had caesarean delivery than in the deferred delivery group (RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.24, one trial, 547 women, high-quality evidence). Data were not available on any other maternal outcomes.There were several methodological weaknesses in the included study, and the level of evidence for the primary outcomes was graded high for caesarean section and moderate for extended perinatal mortality and death or disability at or after two years. The evidence was downgraded because the CIs for these outcomes were wide, and were consistent with both appreciable benefit and harm. Bias may have been introduced by several factors: blinding was not possible due to the nature of the intervention, data for childhood follow-up were incomplete due to attrition, and no adjustment was made in the analysis for the non-independence of babies from multiple pregnancies (39 out of 548 pregnancies). This study only included cases of suspected fetal compromise where there was uncertainty whether immediate delivery was indicated, thus results must be interpreted with caution.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Currently there is insufficient evidence on the benefits and harms of immediate delivery compared with deferred delivery in cases of suspected fetal compromise at preterm gestations to make firm recommendations. There is a lack of trials addressing this question, and limitations of the one included trial means that caution must be used in interpreting and generalising the findings. More research is needed to guide clinical practice.Although the included trial is relatively large, it has insufficient power to detect differences in neonatal mortality. It did not report any maternal outcomes other than mode of delivery, or evaluate maternal satisfaction or economic outcomes. The applicability of the findings is limited by several factors: Women with a wide range of obstetric complications and gestational ages were included, and subgroup analysis is currently limited. Advances in Doppler assessment techniques may diagnose severe compromise more accurately and help make decisions about the timing of delivery. The potential benefits of deferring delivery for longer or shorter periods cannot be presumed.Where there is uncertainty whether or not to deliver a preterm fetus with suspected fetal compromise, there seems to be no benefit to immediate delivery. Deferring delivery until test results worsen or increasing gestation favours delivery may improve the outcomes for mother and baby.There is a need for high-quality randomised controlled trials comparing immediate and deferred delivery where there is suspected fetal compromise at preterm gestations to guide clinical practice. Future trials should report all important outcomes, and should be adequately powered to detect differences in maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality.

Cesarean Section and Subsequent Stillbirth, Is Confounding by Indication Responsible for the Apparent Association? An Updated Cohort Analysis of a Large Perinatal Database

BACKGROUND

Several studies and a recent meta-analysis have suggested that previous Cesarean section may increase the risk of stillbirth in a subsequent pregnancy. Given the high rates of Cesarean section in contemporary obstetric practice, this is of considerable public health importance. We sought to evaluate the potential that this association is the result of residual confounding bias.

METHODS

A large perinatal database (Alberta Perinatal Health Project) was searched to identify a matched set of first and second births from the years 1992-2006. Data on pregnancy outcomes, demographics and potential confounding factors were obtained.

RESULTS

The cohort was comprised of 98538 matched first and second births. Multivariate analysis did not reveal an association between previous Cesarean section and stillbirth, OR = 1.38 (0.98, 1.93). Restricting the analysis to a low risk group further attenuated the association, OR = .99 (0.62, 1.52). Analysis of the risk by indication for Cesarean section found that the risk was not increased for previous dystocia, OR = .91 (0.53, 1.55) nor for breech presentation, OR = 1.06 (0.50, 2.28) but only for other indications including non reassuring fetal status and fetal distress, OR = 1.96 (1.29, 2.98).

CONCLUSIONS

The results of our cohort analysis suggest that previous Cesarean section does not cause an increased risk of stillbirth.

[Investigation on the approach of delivery after previous cesarean section of Xinjiang Uyghur women]

OBJECTIVE

To explore the appropriate approach of delivery after cesarean section of Uyghur women in primary hospitals in Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region.

METHODS

A total of 5 154 women delivered in Luopu County People Hospital, Hetian Prefecture, Xinjiang Uyghur Autonomous Region from January 2011 to December 2012. Among them, 178 Uyghur women had cesarean section history. The interval between the previous cesarean section and this delivery varied from 1 year to 17 years. The number of cases attempting vaginal labor and the indications of the previous cesarean section were recorded. The indications for the second cesarean section were analyzed. The gestational weeks at delivery, blood loss in 2 hours after delivery, neonatal birth weight, newborn asphyxia, the rate of postpartum fever (≥ 38 °C) and hospitalization days were compared between the two approaches of delivery.

RESULTS

(1) Among the 178 cases, 119 cases attempted vaginal labor, the rate of attempting vaginal labor was 66.9% (119/178). A total of 113 cases succeeded in vaginal delivery (the vaginal delivery group), with the successful rate of attempting vaginal delivery of 95.0% (113/119), and the successful rate of vaginal delivery was 63.5% (113/178). For those 119 women succeeded in vaginal delivery, the indications of the previous cesarean sections were as following: pregnancy complications (68.1%, 81/119), macrosomia(5.0%, 6/119), dystocia (14.3%, 17/119), pregnancies complicated with other diseases (5.0%, 6/119) and cesarean section on maternal request (7.6%, 9/119). (2) 15 cases in the cesarean section group had postpartum hemorrhage, with the incidence of 13.3% (15/113). The mean total labor time was (507 ± 182) minutes. 6 cases attempting vaginal delivery failed and turned to cesarean section. (3) 59 cases received the second cesarean section (the cesarean section group). The rate of second cesarean section was 33.1% (59/178). The indications of the second cesarean section were as following: contracted pelvis (5%, 3/59), pregnancy complications (42%, 25/59), macrosomia (20%, 12/59), short interval between the two cesarean sections (≤ 2 years); (12%, 7/59) and cesarean section on maternal request (20%, 12/59). (4) Gestational weeks at delivery, rates of newborn asphyxia in the vaginal delivery and cesarean section groups showed no significant statistical difference (P > 0.05). In the vaginal delivery group, the average blood loss in 2 hours after delivery was (259 ± 213) ml, the rate of postpartum fever was 10.6%, the mean fetal birth weight was (3 272 ± 477)g and the mean hospitalization was (1.8 ± 1.6) d. In the cesarean section group, they were (400 ± 320) ml, 54.2%, (3 539 ± 500)g and (8.7 ± 2.2)d, respectively. There was significant statistical difference (P < 0.01) between the two groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Vaginal delivery after cesarean section could be attemped in Uyghur pregnant women in Xinjiang primary hospitals, if doctors could choose the indications strictly and monitor closely. These could increase the success rate and safety of vaginal delivery and therefore reduce the cesarean section rate.

Immediate versus deferred delivery of the preterm baby with suspected fetal compromise for improving outcomes

BACKGROUND

Immediate delivery of the preterm fetus with suspected compromise may decrease the risk of damage due to intrauterine hypoxia. However, it may also increase the risks of prematurity.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of immediate versus deferred delivery of preterm babies with suspected fetal compromise on neonatal, maternal and long-term outcomes.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (27 February 2012).

SELECTION CRITERIA

Randomised trials comparing a policy of immediate delivery with deferred delivery or expectant management in preterm fetuses with suspected in utero compromise. Quasi-randomised trials and trials employing a cluster-randomised design were eligible for inclusion but none were identified.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently evaluated trials for inclusion into the review. Two review authors assessed trial quality and extracted data. Data were checked for accuracy.

MAIN RESULTS

We included one trial of 548 women (588 babies) in the review. There was no difference in the primary outcomes of extended perinatal mortality (risk ratio (RR) 1.17, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.67 to 2.04) or the composite outcome of death or disability at or after two years (RR 1.22, 95% CI 0.85 to 1.75) with immediate delivery compared to deferred delivery. More babies in the immediate delivery group were ventilated for more than 24 hours (RR 1.54, 95% CI 1.20 to 1.97). There were no differences between the immediate delivery and deferred delivery groups in any other individual neonatal morbidity or markers of neonatal morbidity (cord pH less than 7.00, Apgar less than seven at five minutes, convulsions, interventricular haemorrhage or germinal matrix haemorrhage, necrotising enterocolitis and periventricular leucomalacia or ventriculomegaly).More children in the immediate delivery group had cerebral palsy at or after two years of age (RR 5.88, 95% CI 1.33 to 26.02). There were, however, no differences in neurodevelopment impairment at or after two years (RR 1.72, 95% CI 0.86 to 3.41) or death or disability in childhood (six to 13 years of age) (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.48 to 1.40). More women in the immediate delivery group had caesarean delivery than in the deferred delivery group (RR 1.15, 95% CI 1.07 to 1.24). Data were not available on any other maternal outcomes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

Currently there is insufficient evidence on the benefits and harms of immediate delivery compared with deferred delivery in cases of suspected fetal compromise at preterm gestations to make firm recommendations to guide clinical practice. Where there is uncertainty whether or not to deliver a preterm fetus with suspected fetal compromise, there seems to be no benefit to immediate delivery. Deferring delivery until test results worsen or increasing gestation favours delivery may improve the outcomes for mother and baby. More research is needed to guide clinical practice.

[Clinical monitoring of myocardial injury in neonates with intrauterine distress]

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether no asphyxia neonates with intrauterine distress are complicated with myocardial injury and determine the sensitive biochemical diagnostic parameters.

METHODS

A total of 89 neonates born in the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University from July 2009 to December 2009 were enrolled. Fifty-three fetal distress cases with Apgar score > 7 at 1 and 5 minutes were enrolled in the study group; while the rest 36 healthy neonates, whose Apgar score = 10 at 1 and 5 minutes, were the control group. Umbilical artery blood samples of all cases were collected for blood gas analysis and biochemical measurement.

RESULTS

(1) pH (7.23 ± 0.07) and BE [(-4.8 ± 3.0) mmol/L] in the study group were significantly lower than pH (7.31 ± 0.03) and BE [(-2.1 ± 1.5) mmol/L ] in the control group(P < 0.05). The lactic acid of study group [(5.2 ± 2.3) mmol/L] was higher than that of the control group [(2.3 ± 1.1) mmol/L], and the difference was significant (P < 0.01). However, there was no significant difference between the two groups in PaO2 [(16.2 ± 7.9) mm Hg (1 mm Hg = 0.133 kPa) vs. (17.5 ± 6.7) mm Hg] and PaCO2 [(54.0 ± 11.2) mm Hg vs. (48.5 ± 5.4) mm Hg; P > 0.05]. (2) The level of CK-MB in neonates with fetal distress[ (48 ± 59) U/L] was significantly higher than that of healthy neonates [(36 ± 27) U/L]. However, no significant difference was found in CK [(194 ± 73) U/L vs. (162 ± 95) U/L] and BNP levels [(519 ± 309) ng/L vs. (481 ± 216) ng/L; P > 0.05]. (3) Spearman rank correlation analysis showed that CK-MB level was negatively correlated with pH (r = -0.296, P < 0.05) and BE (r = -0.318, P < 0.05) of umbilical artery blood, while BNP level was positively correlated with umbilical lactic acid (r = 0.278, P < 0.05). No correlation was found between other parameters (P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Intrauterine distress without neonatal asphyxia had effect on fetal myocardial injury. CK-MB can be used as a sensitive parameter for monitoring the development of myocardial injury. The severity of myocardial injury was related to fetal acidosis.

The impact of non-significant variable decelerations appearing in the latent phase on delivery mode: a prospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Variable decelerations are the most frequent fetal heart rate changes that are related to labor. The objective of the study was to estimate the impact of non-significant variable decelerations (NSV) appearing during the latent phase of labor on delivery mode and neonatal outcome.

METHODS

Women at term, who were in the latent phase of labor and had a singleton pregnancy, were prospectively included. Women were divided into three groups. All had a fetal heart rate tracing with normal baseline and variability. The study group was composed of women who had in addition NSV, Category II, according to the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development categorization system. Women who had Category I tracings composed the control group. Women who had non-repetitive severe variables (SV) composed a second control group (Category II-SV). Main outcome compared was mode of delivery. Secondary outcome was cord pH. One-way analysis of variance was used to compare the continuous demographic and clinical variables of the three groups. Backwards stepwise logistic regression using significant univariables was performed to determine which predicted operative delivery. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

RESULTS

Of 1005 women who delivered during the study period 186 had Category II- NSV tracings (study group), 76 had Category II-SV and 251 had Category I tracings. Mode of delivery and indications for operative delivery were similar between women in Category II-NSV compared to Category I. In addition mean cord pH did not differ between the two groups. Conversely, women in Category II-SV, had a higher rate of cesarean or vacuum deliveries compared to the other groups (p = 0.0001). Beside, they had a significantly higher number of neonates born with cord pH between 7.0 to 7.1 (p = 0.03).

CONCLUSIONS

Non-significant variable decelerations in early stages of labor are probably a non-ominous sign for neonatal outcome and have no impact on delivery mode.

Maternal stress-induced reduction in birth weight as a marker for adult affective state

It is known that adverse events experienced by a pregnant woman may be reflected upon the developing fetus and adversely affect its mental wellbeing in later life. In a recent study by our group, prenatal stress was associated with a clear increase in anxiety- and depression-related behavior in male, but not female Sprague-Dawley offspring. Since birth weight data were recorded we were able to determine whether birth weight, as an important outcome measure of fetal distress, may be used as a predictive indicator for adult performance. For this purpose, a correlation analysis was performed, aimed at studying the possible link between stress-induced fetal growth restriction and adult affective state. Male birth weight correlated positively to depression-related behavior in the forced swim test. Furthermore, it weight was correlated negatively to basal, and positively to stress-induced, plasma corticosterone levels in adulthood. Female birth weight did not correlate to any of the studied outcome measures. These data suggest that male birth weight may represent a valuable indicative marker for variations in adult affective state with a developmental origin.

Neonatal neurological morbidity associated with uterine rupture

AIMS

To compare neonatal neurological morbidity associated with uterine rupture with morbidity associated with a non-reassuring fetal status.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort analysis. Twenty-one cases of term infants delivered after a symptomatic uterine rupture were analyzed and compared with a randomly selected group of 63 infants born after a non-reassuring fetal heart rate pattern.

RESULTS

Prevalence of uterine rupture was 0.058%. Maternal factors and infant general data were similar in both groups. Infants delivered after a uterine rupture had lower Apgar scores at 1 and 5 min, lower umbilical blood pH, and required more advanced resuscitation than infants delivered after a non-reassuring fetal status. Prevalence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy in the uterine rupture group was 33%, compared with 5% in the other group (P<0.01, relative risk 3.7). Four infants in the uterine rupture group (19%) had moderate or severe encephalopathy; all of them had also multisystem dysfunction and an adverse outcome. No infant in the non-reassuring fetal status group showed moderate or severe encephalopathy.

CONCLUSIONS

Uterine rupture is a considerable sentinel event that involves a high rate of early and late neurological morbidity in the newborn infant.

[Frequency and indication for vacuum extractor delivery]

The aim of the study is to analyze the frequency of the vacuum extraction delivery (VE) and the contemporary indications for its use and their frequency. The study included 44,109 births occurred for 14 years period. This clinical trial is prospective and retrospective on 1197 applied VE. The extraction of the fetus was performed by soft cup silicone vacuum extractor type Ameda - Egnell and electric vacuum pump Atmos. We find 4 main indications for VE: acute fetal distress, labor dystokia, arrest of descent and need to avoid voluntary maternal expulsive efforts.

RESULTS

The frequency of the VE in the 14 years period was 2.71% with an increasing temps from 2% in the beginning of the period and 5% by its end. The most common indication for VE in 37.08% is acute fetal distress followed by the labor dystokia in 31.42% of the cases. The arrest of descent of the fetal head is indication in 25.31% of the applied VE. The need to avoid voluntary maternal expulsive efforts was indication for VE in 5.48% of the cases. The vacuum stimulation was an indication only in 0.71% of the cases.

CONCLUSION

VE is a useful method nowadays in assisted vaginal delivery. VE should not be used in breech presentation. The contemporary indications for VE are: maternal indications (labor dystokia and need to avoid voluntary maternal expulsive efforts) and fetal indications (acute fetal distress and arrest of descent). The acute fetal distress is the leading indication, but with tendency of equalization/decreasing compared to labor dystokia and the arrest of descent. Vacuum stimulation is no more an indication for VE.

Extreme thrombocytosis associated with transient myeloproliferative disorder with Down Syndrome with t(11;17)(q13;q21)

A female patient with Down Syndrome (DS) had neonatal thrombocytosis with platelet counts exceeding 2,000 x 10(3)/microL and transient myeloproliferative disorder (TMD). Platelet counts remained elevated the first 2 months of life. A translocation located between chromosomes 17 and 11 was observed. We describe a patient with thrombocytosis and TMD showing an 11q13 translocation. The leukocytosis and thrombocytosis improved after an exchange transfusion.

Delayed-onset dystonia due to perinatal asphyxia: a prospective study

The objective of this work was to establish the existence and incidence of possible delayed-onset dystonia in a cohort of infants with diagnosed perinatal asphyxial hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). This prospective study comprised 103 survivors of perinatal asphyxial HIE, who were regularly followed and neurologically examined in the course of 7 to 13 years after birth (median 10 years). Neurological outcome at the end of the follow-up period was normal in 87 (84.5%) patients, while in 7 (6.8%) only mild neurological signs were detected (behavioral disturbances in 3, clumsiness in 2, and hypotonia in 1 patient). Severe cerebral palsy was diagnosed in nine patients (8.7%). Only one patient was diagnosed with possible delayed-onset segmental dystonia. At the age of 4 years he developed cervical dystonia with spread to one arm in the course of 1.5 years (segmental dystonia) and then stabilized. Other known causes of dystonia, including a DYT1 mutation, were excluded. Our preliminary data suggest that over the course of at least 7 years after birth, approximately 1% of infants who survived perinatal asphyxial HIE would develop delayed-onset dystonia.

Neonatal aspects of the relationship between intrapartum events and cerebral palsy

Recent years have witnessed an international, multisource effort to define and progressively improve evidence-based criteria for defining the relationship between perinatal events and the subsequent development of cerebral palsy. The neonatal components of these criteria include neonatal encephalopathy, Apgar score, multisystem organ dysfunction, and currently available neuroimaging methods. This review focuses on current knowledge and unresolved issues regarding these criteria.

Predictors of umbilical artery acidosis in preterm delivery

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to investigate the significance of preterm acidosis and its risk factors.

STUDY DESIGN

From a cohort of 786 consecutive singleton neonates who were born after spontaneous or iatrogenic preterm delivery at 24.0-33.6 weeks of gestation from January 1993 to December 2005 with an evaluation of umbilical artery pH at delivery, we extracted demographic, obstetric, neonatal, and placental histologic variables and related them to umbilical artery evidence of fetal acidemia, which was defined as pH <7.10. Excluded were stillbirths and neonates with major congenital anomalies. Fetal distress was defined as nonreassuring fetal hearth rate tracing or biophysical profile or appearance of thick meconium at delivery. Statistical analysis included 1-way analysis of variance and logistic regression with a probability value of <.05 considered significant.

RESULTS

Neonates with umbilical cord evidence of acidosis (n = 34) were born more frequently after abruption (P < .001), fetal distress (P < .001), and by cesarean delivery (P < .04) and were born less frequently after a complete course of corticosteroids (P = .03) and labor (P = .05) than nonacidotic babies (n = 752). Acute inflammatory lesions at placental histologic evaluation were less frequent (P = .049), and placental vascular lesions were more common in acidotic than in nonacidotic preterm neonates (P = .039). Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that cord acidosis was associated independently with the occurrence of abruptio placentae (odds ratio, 7.3; 95% CI, 2.9, 18.8), fetal distress (odds ratio, 12.0; 95% CI, 4.9, 18.3), and vascular placental lesions (odds ratio, 2.8; 95% CI, 1.2, 6.8)

CONCLUSION

In preterm infants, umbilical artery acidosis is significantly more common in the presence of placental abruption, fetal distress, and histologic evidence of placental vascular disease.

Progressive multicystic encephalopathy: is there more than hypoxia-ischemia?

Progressive multicystic encephalopathy following prenatal or perinatal hypoxia-ischemia is a well-described phenomenon in the literature. The authors report on a term infant with a devastating encephalopathy and severe neuronal dysfunction immediately after delivery without a known antecedent of prenatal or perinatal hypoxia or distress. Clinical and paraclinical findings in the patient are compared with those described in the literature. The authors focus on the specific results guiding to the final diagnosis of progressive multicystic encephalopathy and the timing of morphologic changes. As in this case, if the criteria of an acute hypoxic event sufficient to cause neonatal encephalopathy are not met, then factors other than hypoxia-ischemia may be leading to progressive multicystic encephalopathy.

The presence of gestational diabetes is associated with increased detection of anti-HLA-class II antibodies in the maternal circulation

PROBLEM

Gestational diabetes (GD) may be associated with temporarily reduced immune tolerance toward alloantigens for the time of pregnancy. The aim of this study was to assess anti-HLA-class I and -II antibodies as markers for an aberrant immunostimulation in women with GD.

METHOD OF STUDY

The percentage of anti-HLA-class I and -II antibodies was estimated in women with GD, normal term delivery and fetal distress, which was confirmed by demonstrating low cord blood pH for this patient group. These antibodies may cross the placental barrier and cause interleukin-6 (IL-6) release from fetal monocytes by cross-linking monocytes with antibody-loaded cells. Therefore we estimated the percentage of IL-6-positive monocytes in the fetal circulation of these three patient groups.

RESULTS

We found a significantly increased percentage of anti-HLA-class II in the circulation of women with GD. In comparison with women with normal term delivery, a significantly increased percentage of IL-6-positive monocytes was detected for women with GD and for women with fetal distress. Significantly decreased cord blood pH were detected for neonates born in the presence of fetal distress but not for neonates born in the presence of GD.

CONCLUSIONS

Our results suggest that GD is associated with an increased humoral immune response against HLA-class II antigens.

Maternal risk factors for term neonatal seizures: population-based study in Colorado, 1989-2003

Neonatal seizures in term infants are rare but have important potential implications for brain development. Risk factors for neonatal seizures in term infants have been less well defined than those among preterm infants. To evaluate the relationship between maternal risk factors and neonatal seizures in the first 72 hours of life in term infants, a case-control study using the Colorado Birth Certificate Registry was conducted. Term neonates in all hospitals in Colorado with and without seizures in the first 72 hours were studied. After adjusting for vaginal delivery in the setting of herpes infection and post-term delivery, preexisting diabetes in the mother (odds ratio 4.30, 95% confidence interval 1.64-11.27, P < .01) and fetal distress (odds ratio 5.88, 95% confidence interval 4.60-7.13, P < .0001) were independent risk factors for neonatal seizures in term infants. These findings are confirmatory of previous reports that maternal preexisting diabetes and fetal distress increase the risk of neonatal seizure in term infants. Although we cannot establish the pathophysiology of neonatal seizures from this analysis, hypoxic-ischemic brain injury and hypoglycemia in infants of diabetic mothers are known causes of neonatal seizures that can be represented in this analysis by fetal distress and maternal preexisting diabetes, respectively. Maternal diabetic vasculopathy can also be a contributing factor.

Perinatal renal venous thrombosis: presenting renal length predicts outcome

BACKGROUND

Renal venous thrombosis (RVT) is the most common form of venous thrombosis in neonates, causing both acute and long term kidney dysfunction. Historical predisposing factors include dehydration, maternal diabetes, and umbilical catheters, but recent reports highlight associations with prothrombotic abnormalities.

STUDY

Twenty three patients with neonatal RVT were analysed over 15 years. Predisposing factors, presentation, and procoagulant status were compared with renal outcome using multilevel modelling.

RESULTS

Median presentation was on day 1: 19/23 (83%) had pre/perinatal problems, including fetal distress (14), intrauterine growth retardation (five), and pre-identified renal abnormalities (two); 8/18 (44%) had procoagulant abnormalities, particularly factor V Leiden mutations (4/18). Long term abnormalities were detected in 28/34 (82%) affected kidneys; mean glomerular filtration rate was 93.6 versus 70.2 ml/min/1.73 m2 in unilateral versus bilateral cases (difference 23.4; 95% confidence interval 6.4 to 40.4; p = 0.01). No correlation was observed between procoagulant tendencies and outcome, but presenting renal length had a significant negative correlation: mean fall in estimated single kidney glomerular filtration rate was 3 ml/min/1.73 m2 (95% confidence interval 3.7 to -2.2; p = 0.001) per 1 mm increase, and kidneys larger than 6 cm at presentation never had a normal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

This subgroup of neonatal RVT would be better termed perinatal RVT to reflect antenatal and birth related antecedents. Prothrombotic defects should be considered in all patients with perinatal RVT. Kidney length at presentation correlated negatively with renal outcome. The latter, novel observation raises the question of whether larger organs should be treated more aggressively in future.

The epidemiology of meconium aspiration syndrome: incidence, risk factors, therapies, and outcome

OBJECTIVE

We sought to examine, in a large cohort of infants within a definable population of live births, the incidence, risk factors, treatments, complications, and outcomes of meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS).

DESIGN

Data were gathered on all of the infants in Australia and New Zealand who were intubated and mechanically ventilated with a primary diagnosis of MAS (MASINT) between 1995 and 2002, inclusive. Information on all of the live births during the same time period was obtained from perinatal data registries.

RESULTS

MASINT occurred in 1061 of 2,490,862 live births (0.43 of 1000), with a decrease in incidence from 1995 to 2002. A higher risk of MASINT was noted at advanced gestation, with 34% of cases born beyond 40 weeks, compared with 16% of infants without MAS. Fetal distress requiring obstetric intervention was noted in 51% of cases, and 42% were delivered by cesarean section. There was a striking association between low 5-minute Apgar score and MASINT. In addition, risk of MASINT was higher where maternal ethnicity was Pacific Islander or indigenous Australian and was also increased after planned home birth. Uptake of exogenous surfactant, high-frequency ventilation, and inhaled nitric oxide increased considerably during the study period, with >50% of infants receiving > or =1 of these therapies by 2002. Risk of air leak was 9.6% overall, with an apparent reduction to 5.3% in 2001-2002. The duration of intubation remained constant throughout the study period (median: 3 days), whereas duration of oxygen therapy and length of hospital stay increased. Death related to MAS occurred in 24 infants (2.5% of the MASINT cohort; 0.96 per 100,000 live births).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of MASINT in the developed world is low and seems to be decreasing. Risk of MASINT is significantly greater in the presence of fetal distress and low Apgar score, as well as Pacific Islander and indigenous Australian ethnicity. The increased use of innovative respiratory supports has not altered the duration of mechanical ventilation.

Repeat cesarean delivery: what indications are recorded in the medical chart?

BACKGROUND

National surveillance estimates reported a troubling 63 percent decline in the rate of vaginal birth after cesarean delivery (VBAC) from 1996 (28.3%) to 2003 (10.6%), with subsequent rising rates of repeat cesarean delivery. The study objective was to examine patterns of documented indications for repeat cesarean delivery in women with and without labor.

METHODS

We conducted a population-based validation study of 19 nonfederal short-stay hospitals in Washington state. Of the 4,541 women who had live births in 2000, 11 percent (n = 493) had repeat cesarean without labor and 3 percent (n = 138) had repeat cesarean with labor. Incidence of medical conditions and pregnancy complications, patterns of documented indications for repeat cesarean delivery, and perioperative complications in relation to repeat cesarean delivery with and without labor were calculated.

RESULTS

Of the 493 women who underwent a repeat cesarean delivery without labor, "elective"(36%) and "maternal request"(18%) were the most common indications. Indications for maternal medical conditions (3.0%) were uncommon. Among the 138 women with repeat cesarean delivery with labor, 60.1 percent had failure to progress, 24.6 percent a non-reassuring fetal heart rate, 8.0 percent cephalopelvic disproportion, and 7.2 percent maternal request during labor. Fetal indications were less common (5.8%). Breech, failed vacuum, abruptio placentae, maternal complications, and failed forceps were all indicated less than 5.0 percent. Women's perioperative complications did not vary significantly between women without and with labor. Regardless of a woman's labor status, nearly 10 percent of women with repeat cesarean delivery had no documented indication as to why a cesarean delivery was performed.

CONCLUSIONS

"Elective" and "maternal request" were common indications among women undergoing repeat cesarean delivery without labor, and nearly 10 percent of women had undocumented indications for repeat cesarean delivery in their medical record. Improvements in standardization of indication nomenclature and documentation of indication are especially important for understanding falling VBAC rates. Future research should examine how clinicians and women anticipate, discuss, and make decisions about childbirth after a previous cesarean delivery within the context of actual antepartum care.

Induction of labor and perinatal outcome: the impact of the amniotic fluid index

OBJECTIVE

The purpose was to determine the impact of the amniotic fluid index on the perinatal outcome of patients admitted for induction of labor at term.

STUDY DESIGN

Patients (n=180) included in the study were those admitted for induction of labor at 37-42 weeks' gestation, with unfavorable cervix and intact membranes. The amniotic fluid index (AFI) was determined in all patients using the four-quadrant technique within 24 h of the induction of labor. Patients were divided into two groups based on their AFI: the oligohydramnios group with AFI < or = 5 cm (n = 66) and a normal group with AFI > 5 cm (n = 114). The perinatal outcomes of the two groups were compared.

RESULTS

The two groups were similar with regard to maternal age, gestational age, and birth weight. Meconium staining of the amniotic fluid was significantly higher in the group with AFI < or = 5 cm (p = 0.040). The number of cesarean deliveries due to fetal distress was significantly higher even after adjusting for other confounding factors in the group with AFI < or = 5 cm (adjusted OR 6.52 [95% CI 1.82, 23.2]; p < or = 0.0001). There was no significant difference between the two groups with regard to Apgar scores or neonatal admission.

CONCLUSION

Induction of labor at term in patients with oligohydramnios is associated with an increased risk of cesarean delivery due to fetal distress.

Fetal Doppler Hypoxic index for the prediction of abnormal fetal heart rate at delivery in chronic fetal distress

OBJECTIVE

To design a Doppler Hypoxic index (HI), which takes into account both the duration and the intensity of fetal flow redistribution (i.e. hypoxia) for predicting the occurrence of abnormal fetal heart rate (FHR) at delivery.

METHOD

Sixty-six pregnancies with hypertension and/or growth retardation (IUGR) were investigated (age: 23+/-5 years; primigravidas: 30%, CS 59%; hospitalisation: 10+/-8 days, IUGR (<10 c) 82%, intensive care 23%, fetal death 1). Umbilical (URI) and cerebral (CRI) Doppler resistance indices, and the C/U ratio (CRI/URI) were measured every 2 days from admission to delivery. HI was calculated by summing the daily %C/U reduction (in % from normal cut-off limit 1.1) over the period of observation (or mean C/U reduction in % from 1.1 x number of days of observation). Doppler C/U and HI were compared with fetal heart rate (FHR) traces, and perinatal data.

RESULTS

HI > 160% was associated with abnormal FHR in 80% of the cases (PPV = 87%, NPV = 88%). HI > 160% predicted the occurrence of abnormal FHR 8+/-6 days before they happened.

CONCLUSION

A combination of intensity and duration of the fetal flow redistribution (i.e. hypoxia) evaluated by Doppler is correlated with the occurrence of abnormal fetal heart rate.

Umbilical cord blood pH and risk factors for acidaemia in neonates in Kerman

A prospective cross-sectional study was carried out to determine the relationship and predictive value of umbilical cord blood pH for adverse neonatal outcomes. A total of 400 singleton term infants delivered by vaginal delivery or caesarean section were studied at a hospital in Kerman, Islamic Republic of Iran, in 2001. Mean (SD) umbilical cord blood pH was 7.25 +/- 0.14 and 81 cases had acidaemia (pH < 7.1). Apgar score at 1 minute and fetal distress were significantly related to acidaemia. There was also a significant relation between meconium-stained amniotic fluid and acidaemia. Logistic regression analysis showed that Apgar score < 7 at 1 minute, meconium-stained amniotic fluid and fetal distress were significant risk factors for acidaemia in newborn infants. Umbilical cord blood acid-base alterations are related to subsequent adverse outcome events for neonates.

Relationships among attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, induced labor, and selected physiological and demographic variables

We investigated whether events associated with physiological maternal and fetal stress during the birth process were associated with diagnosis of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), alone or in combination with demographic variables. We gathered data through maternal responses to a 17-item questionnaire. Sex, mother's educational level, mother's age at delivery, interval between the beginning of labor and birth, and presence or absence of complications during the delivery process accounted for 42% of the variance in the diagnostic (ADHD) category. The model correctly classified 87% of the non-ADHD group (n = 90) and 48% of the children with ADHD (n = 40), for an overall correct classification rate of 75%. A differential effect for sex was indicated, but a low number of females in the diagnostic category limited meaningful analysis. Maternal age at delivery and maternal education level emerged as the strongest predictors, with the exception of sex, of ADHD in the full model.

Perinatal outcome associated with oligohydramnios in uncomplicated term pregnancies

PURPOSE

In high-risk pregnancies, oligohydramnios is frequently used to identify fetuses at risk of an adverse outcome. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effect of oligohydramnios on perinatal outcome in uncomplicated pregnancies between 40.0 and 41.6 weeks.

METHODS

From January 1997 to December 2000 all uncomplicated pregnancies reaching 40.0 weeks' gestation with a singleton non-malformed fetus and reliable dating underwent monitoring with serial determination of amniotic fluid index (AFI) and biophysical profile. Labor was induced for AFI <or=5 cm, biophysical profile score of 6 or less, rise in maternal blood pressure >140/90 mm Hg, or gestational age of 42.0 weeks. Perinatal outcome was compared between cases with AFI <or=5 cm and those with AFI >5 cm using Chi-square or Fisher's exact test for categorical variables, Student's t-test for continuous variables, and logistic regression analysis. A two-tailed p value <0.05 or an odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) not inclusive of the unity was considered significant. RESULTS. Three thousand and forty-nine women met the inclusion criteria, 341 of which (11%) had an AFI <or=5 cm. Gestational age at delivery, rates of nulliparity and induction of labor were significantly different between cases with oligohydramnios and those with normal AFI (all p<0.001). Rates of cesarean delivery for non-reassuring fetal testing (8.2% vs. 3.9%, p<0.001) and of neonates with birth weight <10th percentile (13.2% vs. 5.5%, p<0.001) were significantly higher in the AFI <or=5 cm group compared with the AFI >5 cm. No significant differences were identified between the two groups in rates of meconium-stained amniotic fluid, 5-min Apgar score <7, or umbilical artery pH <7. Logistic regression analysis demonstrated that the association between oligohydramnios and rate of cesarean delivery for non-reassuring fetal testing lost significance after controlling for gestational age at delivery, nulliparity and induction of labor, whereas the association between AFI <or=5 cm and low birth weight centiles remained statistically significant (OR=2.2, 95% CI 1.5, 3.2).

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, in uncomplicated pregnancies at 40.0 to 41.6 weeks, oligohydramnios is independently associated with a higher risk of low birth weight centile.

Defining the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy

The topics of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy, as well as hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, are of paramount importance to anyone who ventures to deliver infants. Criteria sufficient to define an acute intrapartum hypoxic event as sufficient to cause cerebral palsy have been advanced previously by both The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) and the International Cerebral Palsy Task Force. ACOG convened a task force that over the past 3 years reviewed these criteria based upon advances in scientific knowledge. In this review, we cover the slow but steady progression toward defining the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of neonatal encephalopathy and cerebral palsy. Four essential criteria are also advanced as prerequisites if one is to propose that an intrapartum hypoxic-ischemic insult has caused a moderate to severe neonatal encephalopathy that subsequently results in cerebral palsy. Importantly, all four criteria must be met: 1) evidence of metabolic acidosis in fetal umbilical cord arterial blood obtained at delivery (pH less than 7 and base deficit of 12 mmol/L or more), 2) early onset of severe or moderate neonatal encephalopathy in infants born at 34 or more weeks' gestation, 3) cerebral palsy of the spastic quadriplegic or dyskinetic type, and 4) exclusion of other identifiable etiologies, such as trauma, coagulation disorders, infectious conditions, or genetic disorders. Other criteria that together suggest intrapartum timing are also discussed.

Fetal and neonatal neurologic case histories: assessment of brain disorders in the context of fetal-maternal-placental disease. Part 2: Neonatal neurologic consultations in the context of adverse antepartum and intrapartum events

The more conventional role of the pediatric neurologist involves the evaluation of the child after birth. Although the pediatric neurologist rarely attends the delivery of the neonate, consultation by the neurologist should begin immediately following stabilization by the neonatal resuscitation team. Four interrelated aspects of the neurologist's clinical assessment will be discussed in the context of reaching a consultative opinion, which must incorporate knowledge of chronologic events before as well as during labor and delivery. This evaluation encompasses an assessment of levels of arousal, increased or decreased muscle tone, presence of seizures, and effects of systemic diseases on the central nervous system, which are the essential elements of a complete neurologic examination. Documentation of the neonate's neurologic condition, together with knowledge of maternal, fetal, and placental diseases, will help anticipate neuroresuscitative decisions, as well as subsequent neurologic deficits.

Critical pulmonary stenosis with intact ventricular septum and fetal arrhythmias

A 23-year-old woman, gravida 1, was referred to our hospital for possible fetal distress at 32 weeks of pregnancy. A fetal cardiotochogram showed a reactive pattern, but mild continuous bradycardia and an intermittent pulse were observed, regarded as a sinus type and a type of A-V block, respectively. The continuous deceleration of the heart rate to 95 bpm was observed frequently at 35 weeks, 3 days of gestation. Thus, an emergent cesarean section was performed and a viable 2,082 g female infant was delivered. The neonate gradually became cyanotic, and an echocardiogram was performed. The neonate was regarded as a right ventricular outflow obstruction with intact ventricular septum. Unlike other cases, the infant revealed a moderately developed right ventricle despite a severely stenotic tricuspid valve. The infant died 27 days after birth and an autopsy established the diagnosis of critical pulmonary stenosis with intact ventricular septum. Right ventricular myocardial sinusoidal-coronary artery connections, one of the major features of this type of heart anomaly, was speculated to be involved in the cause of fetal bradyarrhythmias.

Doppler velocimetry for predicting outcome of pregnancies with decreased fetal movements

AIM

The aim of this study was to evaluate umbilical artery (UA) and uterine artery (Ut.A) Doppler velocimetry in a low-risk pregnancy group with decreased fetal movements.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Eight hundred and eighty-eight women were examined because of decreased fetal movements. All fetuses were alive on maternal admission. In all cases, UA and Ut.A Doppler velocimetries were performed, as well as a nonstress test (NST). The managing clinician was informed only of the UA Doppler.

RESULTS

In the group of 135 women who gave birth within 2 days, UA velocimetry was abnormal in seven fetuses. In 11 cases, Ut.A vascular resistance was abnormal and in 18 cases 'notch' was stated. There were 19 emergency sections in this group. Signs of increased placental vascular resistance were correlated with need for operational delivery because of fetal distress. Among the remaining 753 women who delivered after more than 2 days after examination, UA velocimetry showed abnormality in five fetuses. In 42 cases the Ut.A pulsatility index was abnormal and in 118 cases an early end diastolic 'notch' was present. There was one perinatal death in this group.

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased fetal movement perception by mothers should be taken seriously. Abnormal placental Doppler was an infrequent finding in these low-risk pregnancies. However, adding UA and Ut.A Doppler velocimetries to conventional NST surveillance might be reassuring for managing clinicians.

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid and neonatal morbidity in near-term and term deliveries with acute histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis

OBJECTIVE

To determine the incidence of meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF) and neonatal morbidity in near-term and term deliveries with histologic acute chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis compared to those with normal placental histology.

STUDY DESIGN

In a retrospective case-control design, we compared the incidence of MSAF and neonatal outcome in 45 cases of acute histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis with 89 cases of normal placental histology. We reviewed the obstetric and neonatal records for perinatal complications and neonatal morbidity.

RESULTS

Mean birthweights (3372+/-473 vs 3287+/-518 g) were similar in infants born to mothers with histologic chorioamnionitis and/or funisitis compared to infants born to mothers with normal placental histology. The incidence of MSAF was significantly higher in the group with acute chorioamnionitis/funisitis (p<0.05). Similarly, the incidence of admissions to newborn intensive care unit, respiratory distress, meconium aspiration syndrome, and presumed sepsis was also significantly higher (p<0.05) in this group.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of MSAF and neonatal morbidity is higher in the presence of acute inflammation of placental membranes. The presence of meconium in the amniotic fluid should alert the physician to the potential for infection and increased neonatal morbidity.

Managing patients with meconium-stained amniotic fluid

Meconium-stained amniotic fluid might signify underlying acute or chronic fetal hypoxia with adverse perinatal outcome, especially if associated with cardiotocographic abnormality. Management requires awareness of this potential risk, appropriate intrapartum care and a combined obstetricneonatal approach. Amnioinfusion can be an effective preventative measure.

Lipid peroxidation in pregnancy with preeclampsia and diabetes

We studied lipid peroxidation and vitamin E levels in 12 diabetic preeclamptic, 13 nondiabetic preeclamptic, 8 gestational diabetic, 25 normotensive pregnant women, and 25 healthy nonpregnant women. A significant increase in malonaldehyde (MDA) levels was observed in preeclamptic and diabetic preeclamptic women as compared to normotensive pregnant and healthy controls (p<0.001). An increase in MDA levels was observed in gestational diabetics, but the difference was not statistically significant. Likewise, a significant fall in vitamin E levels was noted in preeclamptic and diabetic preeclamptic groups as compared to controls (p<0.001). Gestational diabetics had a slight decrease in vitamin E levels relative to controls. These findings suggest that lipid peroxidation plays a role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia.

Perinatal risk factors related to neurologic outcomes of term newborns with asphyxia at birth: a prospective study

OBJECTIVES

The incidence of poor neurologic outcomes was studied in term newborns who had suffered severe asphyxia at birth.

METHODS

Subjects were 152 newborns admitted to the NICU with a low Apgar score at 1 or 5 minutes. A 1-year prospective follow-up of neurological outcomes was carried out by a questionnaire survey concluded between April 1, 1996 and March 31, 1998.

RESULTS

1) The incidence of a poor neurologic outcome, including 15 neurologic sequelae and 6 deaths, was 13.8% among the subjects. 2) The risk of a poor outcome was increased by 13-fold in neonates with adverse neurological signs and 31-fold in those with hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy.

CONCLUSION

The incidence of poor neurologic outcome was very high among term infants with low Apgar scores. These infants were 10 times to 20 times more likely to die, or to survive with permanent disabilities, than were infants without low Apgar scores.

Current strategy for management of meconium aspiration syndrome

Meconium aspiration syndrome (MAS) is characterized by the atelectasis due to the complete airway obstruction, emphysema and air leak syndrome resulted from the partial obstruction of airway, chemical pneumonitis, and surfactant dysfunction. As far as meconium is present in the airway, exogenous surfactant will be inactivated rather quickly even given as multiple doses. MAS can easily develop persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn. Therefore, the removal of meconium from the airway rather than the surfactant replacement therapy should be the cardinal step for the treatment of MAS. Our previous studies revealed that the removal of meconium from airway by the tracheobronchial lavage with diluted surfactant solution, 100 mg/10 mL/Kg of Surfactant-TA, resulted in the recovery of both blood gas values and lung compliance to the normal range. Thus, the current strategies of management of MAS are the selective intubation with toileting only on infants with severe distress at birth, and the early airway lavage with diluted surfactant solution, followed by high frequency oscillatory ventilation, which may prevent the further injuries in the fragile neonatal lung.

Perinatal cortical infarction within middle cerebral artery trunks

AIM

To define neonatal pial middle cerebral artery infarction.

METHODS

A retrospective study was made of neonates in whom focal arterial infarction had been detected ultrasonographically. A detailed study was made of cortical middle cerebral artery infarction subtypes.

RESULTS

Forty infarctions, with the exception of those in a posterior cerebral artery, were detected ultrasonographically over a period of 10 years. Most were confirmed by computed tomography or magnetic resonance imaging. Factor V Leiden heterozygosity was documented in three. The onset was probably antepartum in three, and associated with fetal distress before labour in one. There were 19 cases of cortical middle cerebral artery stroke. The truncal type (n=13) was more common than complete (n = 5) middle cerebral artery infarction. Of six infarcts in the anterior trunk, four were in term infants and five affected the right hemisphere. Clinical seizures were part of the anterior truncal presentation in three. One of these infants, with involvement of the primary motor area, developed a severe motor hemisyndrome. The Bayley Mental Developmental Index was above 80 in all of three infants tested with anterior truncal infarction. Of seven patients with posterior truncal infarction, six were at or near term. Six of these lesions were left sided. Clinical seizures were observed in three. A mild motor hemisyndrome developed in at least three of these infants due to involvement of parieto-temporal non-primary cortex.

CONCLUSIONS

Inability to differentiate between truncal and complete middle cerebral artery stroke is one of the explanations for the reported different outcomes. Severe motor hemisyndrome can be predicted from neonatal ultrasonography on the basis of primary motor cortex involvement. Clinical seizures were recognised in less than half of the patients with truncal infarction; left sided presentation was present in the posterior, but not the anterior truncal type of infarction. Asphyxia is a rare cause of focal arterial infarction.

A case study of antenatal distress and consequent neonatal respiratory distress

CS, A 42-YEAR-OLD, GRAVIDA 2, para 1 Caucasian woman, presented at her private obstetrician’s office at 36 weeks gestation with a complaint of decreased fetal movement for 24 hours. Fetal heart tones were present, membranes were intact, and there were no contractions. The first pregnancy had resulted in preterm labor at 36 weeks with no neonatal complications. CS’s blood work indicated that she was type AB+, rubella immune, nonreactive rapid plasmin reagin (RPR) for venereal disease, hepatitis B surface antigen negative, and unknown group B streptococci status. Previous history was significant for herpes simplex, with no active disease during this pregnancy. CS was referred for a biophysical profile (BPP) and an oxytocin challenge test.

[Predictive factors of the delivery method in women with cesarean section scars]

OBJECTIVE

To determine the independent effect of clinical and non clinical factors on the mode of delivery after previous cesarean section.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective multicenter study of 579 women who had previously undergone a cesarean section and who delivered between January 1995 and June 1997. Maternal and perinatal morbidity associated with trial of labor and elective repeat cesarean was assessed. Multiple logistic regression was used to identify prognostic factors for the outcome of a trial of labor. The odds ratios provided indicate the risk of cesarean section when the factor is present.

RESULTS

The rate of successful trial of labor was 74.5%. Overall morbidity was not increased in the trial of labor group. The variables of significant predictive value were the Bishop's score (OR = 15.2 for a score < 3; 95% CI: 5.54 to 41.9), an anomaly of the pelvis (OR = 5.89; 95% CI: 2.37 to 14.7), a previous vaginal delivery (OR = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.12 to 0.60), a fetal distress (OR = 4.11; 95% CI: 2.01 to 8.43), the weight gain during pregnancy (OR = 2.01; 95% CI: 1.10 to 3.68), a delivery between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m. (OR = 0.29; 95% CI: 0.13 to 0.66), a hypertension (OR = 3.10; 95% CI: 1.09 to 8.80) and the use of an intra-uterine pressure catheter (OR = 0.26; 95% CI: 0.11 to 0.57).

CONCLUSION

A trial of labor should be allowed in most of the women with previous cesarean section. The Bishop's score is the best predictor of the mode of delivery. Induction of labor and a first cesarean for dystocia do not affect the chances of vaginal birth.

Perinatal risks associated with borderline amniotic fluid index

OBJECTIVE

Our purpose was to determine whether a borderline amniotic fluid index observed during antepartum testing confers a significant risk of adverse perinatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a retrospective review of all patients entering antepartum testing at Los Angeles County-University of Southern California Women's and Children's Hospital during a 4-month period beginning January 1, 1996. Women with singleton pregnancies who underwent antepartum testing within 1 week of delivery and who were delivered at our institution were identified for our study. An amniotic fluid index >5 and <10 cm was defined as "borderline" and an amniotic fluid index of 10 to 24 cm was considered normal. Markers of adverse perinatal outcome included intrapartum fetal distress, 5-minute Apgar score <7, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and intrauterine growth restriction.

RESULTS

There was a 2-fold increase in the incidence of adverse perinatal outcome among the women with borderline amniotic fluid index in comparison with control subjects with normal amniotic fluid volume. This difference reflected a 4-fold increase in the incidence of fetal growth restriction among women with a borderline amniotic fluid index.

CONCLUSIONS

A borderline amniotic fluid index observed in antepartum testing is associated with an increased risk of intrauterine growth restriction and overall adverse perinatal outcome. These observations suggest that borderline amniotic fluid index merits twice-weekly antepartum testing.

The fetal outcome in pregnancies with isolated reduced amniotic fluid volume in the third trimester

Our aim was to assess the outcome of pregnancies where oligohydramnios, defined by a published gestational reference range for amniotic fluid index, was the only abnormal finding at third trimester scan, and all other ultrasound parameters including biometry were within normal limits at initial scan. A retrospective case-control study was performed at The Liverpool Maternity Hospital. 103 pregnancies with reduced amniotic fluid index in the third trimester and apparently normal fetal growth profile ultrasonographically were identified from ultrasound reports throughout 1993. Pregnancies in the third trimester with normal amniotic fluid index on index scan were also identified from these reports and 103 were matched for parity, gestational age at delivery, mode of onset of labour, presentation at labour and medical conditions. Exclusion criteria were ruptured membranes, fetal abnormalities, estimated fetal weight below the fifth centile at index scan and multiple pregnancies. The outcome criteria were birthweight, Apgar scores at delivery, induction and emergency delivery for fetal reasons and admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Statistical analysis was performed by Fisher's exact test and Gart's odds ratio. Compared with controls, pregnancies in the reduced liquor group had a higher number of babies below the 5th centile (odds ratio 5.2, 95% confidence interval 1.6 to 22), a higher risk of induction for fetal reasons (odds ratio 34.4, 95% confidence interval 5.35 to 1425.5) and admission to Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (odds ratio 9.77, 95% confidence interval 1.3 to 432). Any observed difference in the need for emergency delivery due to fetal reasons was not clinically significant (odds ratio 2.16, 95% confidence interval 0.77 to 6.6) The definition used for oligohydramnios used in this study appears to identify a group of babies with a fourfold risk of low birthweight and a high risk of admission to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and induction of labour for fetal reasons. This would suggest that pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios require some form of fetal monitoring and further prospective studies are required to determine the most appropriate method.