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Abstract Aim: The purpose of the study is to investigate the relationship between the frequency of depression and the type of anesthesia given to the women that deliver by cesarean section. Methods: The study was carried out prospectively on cesarean patients. The study included 58 patients with general anesthesia (GA) and 61 patients with spinal anesthesia (SA). Right before the surgery the patients filled State Trait Anxiety Inventory-1(STAI-1), a form surveying the anesthesia concerns. Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale was filled six weeks after the delivery.The data were analyzed by IBM SPSS 20 statistical analysis program. Results: The difference between the GA and SA groups were insignificant in terms of age, education, socio-economic level and number of pregnancy (p0.05). Edinburg Postpartum Depression Scale indicated that depression points were high in 15.5% of the GA group and 8.1% of the SA group. This was statistically significant (p< 0.01). Conclusion: This study showed that postpartum depression rate was higher in patients that had GA compared to the patients with SA. Thus, it is crucial to select the type of anesthesia after careful examination of the patient.

Maternal obesity has been associated with pregnancy-related complications and neonatal morbidities. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate early neonatal morbidities associated with maternal obesity from the infant-mother dyad data set at a single, large Regional Perinatal Center (RPC) in NY. A retrospective chart review of all mother-infant dyads born from January 2009 to December 2019 was done. Maternal obesity was defined using the NIH definition of pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 Kg/m2. Maternal data included pre-pregnancy BMI, gestational diabetes, hypertension, and mode of delivery. Neonatal data recorded the birth weight, gestational age, respiratory support after delivery, diagnosis of transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN), respiratory distress syndrome (RDS), neonatal hypoglycemia (NH), and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE). Diagnosis of TTN, RDS, NH, and HIE was defined by the service neonatologist and cross-checked by the data system review neonatologist. Medical records of 22,198 infant-mother dyads included in the study had 7,200 infants (32.4%) born to obese mothers and 14,998 infants (67.6%) born to non-obese women. There was a statistically significant increase in the diagnosis of gestational diabetes, gestational hypertension, and cesarean deliveries in obese mothers. Diagnosis of TTN, RDS, and NH was significantly higher in infants born to obese mothers, while HIE incidence was similar in both the groups. Infants born to obese mothers are more likely to be delivered by cesarean section and are at a higher risk of diagnosis of transient tachypnea of newborn, respiratory distress syndrome, and hypoglycemia in the early neonatal period.

The article focuses on the study to Adverse perinatal outcomes following the prenatal diagnosis of isolated single umbilical artery in singleton pregnancies. It mentions that the findings support the value of prenatal diagnosis of iSUA, which may subsequently intensify surveillance for the detection of specific pregnancy complications.

Aim: To explore digital insertion in dorsal recumbent position of 16F, 22F, or 28F catheter bores on insertion failure, duration, and pain in unripe cervix labor induction. Methods: A randomized trial was performed in a University hospital in Malaysia. Term women scheduled for labor induction, Bishop score ≤ 5, singleton, cephalic presentation, intact membrane, and reassuring pre‐induction fetal heart rate tracing were recruited. Women with known gross fetal anomaly, allergy to latex and inability to consent or language difficulty were excluded. Participants were randomized to 16F, 22F, or 28F Foley catheter. Primary outcome was insertion failure and main secondary outcomes were insertion duration and pain (assessed by a Visual Numerical Rating Scale [VNRS] 0–10, higher score more pain). Analysis is done by analysis of variance (ANOVA), Kruskal–Wallis, and chi square test across the three arms and by t test and Mann–Whitney U test for pair wise comparisons. Results: One hundred twenty‐seven participants' data were analyzed. The insertion failure 7/43(16%) versus 4/42(10%) versus 5/42(12%), p = 0.64, insertion duration median [IQR] 2.8 [1.8–4.8] versus 2.8 [1.7–3.7] versus 2.8 [1.7–4.3] min, p = 0.68 and insertion pain VNRS mean {SD} 4.2 {2.5} versus 3.4 {2.3} versus 3.6 {2.2}, p = 0.26, insertion to delivery interval 26.0 {9.7} versus 25.6 {9.1} versus 22.8 {7.4} h, p = 0.45, and spontaneous vaginal delivery 20/43 (45%) versus 23/42(55%) versus 25/42(60%), p = 0.48 for 16F versus 22F versus 28F arms, respectively. Pairwise comparisons were not different. Conclusion: Foley catheter 16F versus 22F versus 28F resulted in similar digital insertion performance in the dorsal recumbent position for unripe cervix labor induction. Clinical Trial Registration: https://doi.org/10.1186/ISRCTN21224268. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: One of the most common causes of postoperative morbidity is postoperative surgical site infection (SSI). Healthcare‐associated infection is a subject of great concern in healthcare services. The goal of the present study is to estimate the relative effectiveness of skin preparation solution chlorhexidine scrub followed by povidone‐iodine painting in the prevention of SSIs after caesarean delivery and abdominal gynecological surgery. Material and Methods: This is a 1‐year randomized prospective research done at a tertiary care institution in western Rajasthan. Women who underwent caesarean and gynecological operations were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Enrolled patients were randomly assigned to have the surgical site painted with 10% povidone‐iodine or a chlorhexidine‐alcohol preparatory scrub followed by povidone‐iodine paint. According to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention criteria, the outcomes were any SSI occurring within a week or during the 30‐day follow‐up period following the operation, including any superficial or deep SSI. Results: A total of 251 patients were randomly assigned to two groups. Group A (povidone‐iodine paint) received 121 patients, whereas Group B (chlorhexidine scrub + povidone‐iodine paint) received 129 cases. The overall SSI rate in the present study was 8.76%. The SSI rate was lower in Group B (chlorhexidine scrub + povidone‐iodine paint) as compared to Group A (povidone‐iodine paint only) (5.4% vs. 12.4%; p = 0.04). Conclusion: This study highlighted that chlorhexidine‐alcohol scrubbing followed by povidone‐iodine painting provides superior skin antisepsis in comparison to povidone‐iodine painting alone. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  Optimal prescriptions practices of opioids in the post-cesarean period remain controversial. The primary aim of this initiative was to minimize unused prescription narcotic medication, with a goal of ≤4 leftover pills of 5-mg oxycodone at postoperative day (POD) 14 without affecting pain or satisfaction measures. Study Design  This was a prospective longitudinal quality improvement (QI) initiative starting in 2017 utilizing the DMAIC methodology. The measurement phase consisted of validated surveys over 3 months, along with chart review to determine current institutional prescription practices and predictors of outpatient opioid use. Resulting recommendations were adopted, and 1 year later, all patients undergoing cesarean were surveyed for 3 months to determine the effectiveness of the intervention. The study was approved by the Department's QI Committee. Results  The response rate was 48%, with 50 of 101 patients completing surveys pre-intervention and 52 of 111 post-intervention. Pre-intervention, surplus medication was predicted (p <0.05) only by the quantity of the opioid prescription. In addition, patients who required ≤37.5 morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) during the inpatient postoperative stay did not require outpatient narcotic prescriptions. Thereafter, a strategy of matching inpatient use to outpatient prescription 1:1 in a linear regression model (p <0.001, R 2 0.55) optimally matched patient needs up to 200 MME. In the post-intervention survey, mean (SD) prescription decreased from 17.6 (13.7) MME to 8.4 (8.3) MME (p <0.01); 39% compared with 16% of women were discharged without a prescription (p <0.01); and amongst all patients 82.7% compared with 59.6% (p <0.01) had ≤4 pills remaining without differences in patient satisfaction or pain perception. Conclusion  This initiative highlights a practical approach to QI utilizing industry techniques in health care. This approach resulted in significant reductions in over-prescription and unused medication, without impacting pain or satisfaction scores. Key Points 20% of patients may manage pain at home without opioids. In-hospital opioid use is reflective of outpatient need. Customize prescriptions to reduce leftover narcotics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Securing the parturient airway is essential during general anesthesia for cesarean delivery. The purpose of this study was to compare inferior airway views provided by the use of three commonly available laryngoscopy blades-Macintosh, Miller, or Glidescope Mac-Style-to the incidence of difficult orotracheal intubation.Methods: Following institutional review board approval, data from 449 electronic medical records in parturients undergoing general anesthesia for cesarean delivery were extracted during a 6-year period. The association of these blades with difficult orotracheal intubation was analyzed with risk and proportion differences measures of effect size.Results: The overall incidence of difficult orotracheal intubation was 4.2% (95% confidence interval 2.7 - 6.5%), with 6 failed orotracheal intubations (5 laryngeal mask airways rescues and 1 mask rescue). Clinically important increases in risk differences for difficult orotracheal intubation were observed in parturients with restricted mouth openings, modified Mallampati III and IV views, and reduced thyromental distances. When modified Cormack-Lehane views were grouped into III and IV versus I and II cohorts; proportion differences for difficult orotracheal intubation were dependent upon the type of blade used, with the Miller blade providing the lowest proportion difference.Conclusions: Miller blade laryngoscopy provided the lowest proportion difference for difficult orotracheal intubation during general anesthesia for cesarean delivery. Miller blade laryngoscopy provides effective procurement of the parturient airway. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Medical guidelines recommend vaginal delivery for low‐risk twin pregnancies because cesareans increase the probability of maternal morbidity and mortality. Yet, vaginal delivery rates for twins are considerably lower than for comparable singletons. One explanation for this disparity argues that greater risk associated with twins warrants increased surgical intervention. An alternative explanation is that twin deliveries are more likely to deviate from protocols that advise vaginal birth. Methods: Using the 2017 Natality Detail File (N = 3,197,401), we measured alignment of vaginal birth and trial of labor (TOL) with the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists' guidelines for twin and singleton no‐indicated‐risk births. We calculated predicted probabilities for the population and by maternal race/ethnicity to assess whether low rates of vaginal births among twins are explained by associated risk factors, or by deviations from recommended delivery methods. Results: Overall, 31.2% of twins were born vaginally compared with 79.4% of singletons. Controlling for indicated risks, the predicted probability of vaginal birth for twins was 0.49 and 0.85 for singletons. The predicted probability of TOL for twins was 0.18 and 0.47 for singletons. Maternal race/ethnicity was only weakly associated with mode of delivery. These findings indicate that no‐indicated‐risk twin pregnancies, across maternal racial/ethnic categories, have lower probabilities of vaginal birth and TOL than would be expected with widespread adherence to current guidelines. Conclusions: Given the life‐threatening consequences that may result from unnecessary surgical procedures, our findings highlight the need for further research to illuminate medical and nonmedical mechanisms driving nonadherence to clinical guidelines for twin births. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Polish perinatal care is facing a high, ever-increasing cesarean section (CS) rate that is currently at 43%. Crucially, reports have revealed that the attitudes, experiences, and skills of clinicians directly contribute to this elevated CS rate. Methods: This cross-sectional study, which included 748 Polish medical students, aimed to identify medical students' attitudes regarding birth methods. A descriptive questionnaire was distributed via the academic email addresses of surveyed medical students. Group comparisons were performed using Welch's t-test for continuous data or a Chi-squared test for categorical data. We also used the Mann–Whitney U test and Kruskal–Wallis H test. Results: Midwifery students (96.2%) were the most unified group of students, with most agreeing that VB (vaginal birth) presents a safer option for women at low risk for VB-related complications vs. cesarean section. Of Medical Faculty students, 68% believed that fewer complications typically occur during vaginal birth than during CS. Students in their final vs. initial years of study furthermore considered VB more beneficial for women than CS. Conclusions: An important factor identified at the individual clinician level is the presence of leadership and executive support. For medical students, we can interpret this as support from their trainers and supervisors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To determine the frequency of complications in patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Study Design: Descriptive Case Series. Setting: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Shahida Islam Medical College, Lodhran. Period: July 2019 to December 2020. Material & Methods: A total of 141 patients with intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy of age 18 to 40 years were included. Patients with multiple pregnancies, history of alcohol intake, CR and preexisting chronic liver disease were excluded. All women were followed till delivery (gestational age ≤ 41 weeks) and feto-maternal outcome i.e. postpartum hemorrhage, cesarean section, APGAR score <7 at 5 minutes, low birth weight, prematurity, meconium stained liquor and intrauterine fetal death (yes/no) was noted. Results: Feto-maternal outcome was as follows; postpartum hemorrhage in 18 (12.77%), cesarean section in 47 (33.33%), preterm birth in 34 (24.11%), APGAR score <7 at five minutes in 13 (9.22%), meconium stained liquor in 45 (31.91%) patients, low birth weight in 14 (9.93%) and Intra-uterine fetal death in 11 (7.80%) patients. Conclusion: Our study concluded that we should develop some serious recommendations for these high risk patients in our routine practice. It will reduce the morbidity and mortality related to this high risk condition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  Short-term morbidity of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) is well described, but few data are available regarding long-term outcomes and quality of life. We aimed to evaluate patient-reported outcomes after hysterectomy for PAS. Study Design  This is a prospective cohort study of women with risk factors for PAS who were enrolled antenatally. Exposed women were defined as those who underwent cesarean hysterectomy due to PAS. Unexposed women were those with three or more prior cesareans or placenta previa, but no PAS, who underwent cesarean delivery without hysterectomy. Two surveys were sent to patients at 6, 12, 24, and 36 months postpartum: (1) a general health questionnaire and (2) the SF-36, a validated quality of life survey. Aggregate scores for each questionnaire were calculated and responses were analyzed. Results  At 6 months postpartum, women with PAS were more likely to report rehospitalization (odds ratio [OR] 5.83, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.40–24.3), painful intercourse (OR 2.50, 95% CI 1.04–6.02), and anxiety/worry (OR 3.77, 95% CI 1.43–9.93), but were not statistically more likely to report additional surgeries (OR 3.39, 95% CI 0.99–11.7) or grief and depression (OR 2.45, 95% CI 0.87–6.95). At 12 months, women with PAS were more likely to report painful intercourse, grief/depression, and anxiety/worry. At 36 months, women with PAS were more likely to report grief/depression, anxiety/worry, and additional surgeries. Women with PAS reported significantly lower quality of life in physical functioning, role functioning, social functioning, and pain at 6 months postpartum, but not in other quality of life domains. Decreased quality of life was also reported at 12 and 36 months in the PAS group. Conclusion  Women with PAS are more likely to report ongoing long-term health issues and decreased quality of life for up to 3 years following surgery than those undergoing cesarean for other indications. Key Points Long-term placenta accreta spectrum data to guide peripartum patient education. This study addresses a critical knowledge gap. Women affected by PAS report long-term morbidity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Uncertainty remains about the most appropriate timing of induction of labor in late-term pregnancies. To address this issue, this study aimed to compare the risk of neonatal morbidity and pregnancy- and birth-related complications between gestational age (GA) 41+4 -42+0 and GA 41+0 -41+3  weeks.Material and Methods: This nationwide registry-based cohort study included singleton births without major congenital malformations, with registered GA, and with intended vaginal delivery at GA 41+0 - 42+0  weeks between 2009 and 2018 in Denmark. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the crude risk ratio and adjusted risk ratio (RRA ) of neonatal and obstetric adverse outcomes in births at GA 41+4 - 42+0  weeks compared with GA 41+0 - 41+3  weeks. The results were adjusted for relevant confounders, including induction of labor.Results: A higher incidence of neonatal morbidity and birth complications was observed in births at GA 41+4 -42+0  weeks than in births at GA 41+0 -41+3  weeks. Neonatal morbidities included an increased risk of low Apgar score (Apgar 0-6 after 5 min; RRA 1.17, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01-1.34), meconium aspiration (RRA 1.25, 95% CI 1.06-1.48), need for respiratory support (continuous positive airway pressure; RRA 1.09, 95% CI 1.03-1.15), and a composite outcome of need for comprehensive treatment at a neonatal department or neonatal death (RRA 1.65, 95% CI 1.29-2.11). Birth complications included emergency cesarean section (RRA 1.17, 95% CI 1.14-1.21), severe lacerations (RRA 1.11, 95% Cl 1.04-1.17), and increased blood loss after birth (RRA 1.13, 95% CI 1.06-1.21).Conclusions: Births at GA 41+4 -42+0  weeks were associated with an increased risk of neonatal morbidity and birth complications compared with births at GA 41+0 -41+3  weeks. The results of this study may aid clinicians in deciding when to recommend induction of labor in late-term pregnancies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Evaluate the efficacy of ondansetron in preventing shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery. Systematic review and meta-analysis Following the PRISMA statement, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane, EMBASE, Google scholar and other grey literature databases were searched for eligible studies. The overall incidence of shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery is 32%, with 24% in patients who received ondansetron compared to 40% in the placebo group. A total of 19 trials consisting of 1399 patients were evaluated. Compared to placebo, ondansetron is effective in reducing the incidence of shivering (RR, 0.47; 95% CI, 0.29 to 0.78; P = 0.003). The quality of evidence is low due to substantial heterogeneity, imprecision and suspected publication bias. Patients who received ondansetron are less likely to require rescue treatment for shivering (RR, 0.34; 95% CI, 0.15 to 0.76; P = 0.009). Also, ondansetron is associated with a lower incidence of hypotension necessitating vasopressor treatment, and nausea and vomiting with no effects on the incidence of bradycardia. Ondansetron is effective in mitigating shivering after spinal anesthesia in cesarean delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Whether there is an association between residual myometrial thickness (RMT) after cesarean section (CS) and the risk of uterine rupture (UR) or uterine scar dehiscence at the subsequent delivery has been sparsely investigated. Our cohort included 149 women with a first CS in whom we measured RMT by transvaginal ultrasonography 6–15 months after their delivery. We did a follow-up study on delivery outcomes in the women's subsequent births. The exposure was scar measurements in the non-pregnant uterus, and the primary outcome was a diagnosis of UR or dehiscence. We calculated likelihood ratios (LRs) with 95% confidence intervals of having UR or dehiscence with a thin RMT (<3 mm). Among the 149 women, 39 had a repeat CS (14 scheduled and 25 unscheduled procedures), and within these, we found one woman with UR and five women with uterine dehiscence. The proportion of women with a thin RMT was significantly higher among cases (4/6) than in controls (4/33); the LR was 5.5 (95% CI 1.9–16.2). The results suggest a significant association between a thin RMT as measured by transvaginal ultrasonography in the non-pregnant uterus after a first scheduled CS and the risk of UR or dehiscence at a subsequent delivery. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aims: To assess the safety and feasibility of myomectomy during cesarean delivery. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study conducted at Kathmandu Model Hospital. Data on cesarean myomectomy were obtained from hospital records and analyzed in terms of demographic profile, number, size and location of fibroids, intraoperative blood loss, and drop in hemoglobin level, blood transfusion, birthweight and duration of hospital stay. Results: Mean age of mother and gestational age at delivery were 32.6 years and 37.8 weeks respectively. Seventeen cases (58.6%) had multiple fibroids. Seventeen (58.6%) of the fibroids were intramural, 10 (34.4%) sub serosal and 2(6.8%) were submucosal. Nine cases (31.1%) had intraoperative blood loss of 500ml to 1000ml with mean loss of 420 ml. Only One case who had blood loss of 1500ml due to presence of fibroid in lower segment of uterus required 3 unit of blood transfusion. The mean preoperative & postoperative hemoglobin were 12.23 gm/dl and 11.25gm/dl. The mean birthweight & duration of hospital stay were 2.8 kg and 2.3 days. Conclusion: Cesarean myomectomy is a safe and feasible procedure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effects of pre-pregnancy body mass index and weight gain during pregnancy on perinatal outcomes and delivery mode. STUDY DESIGN: In this retrospective cohort study, 722 pregnant women giving birth between 2018-2019 were screened from our hospital database. First, they were divided into four groups according to their prepregnancy body mass index (low-weight/normal-weight/overweight/obese), and then they were redivided into three groups according to pregnancy weight gain (=7/8-15/=16 kg). Prenatal body mass index and pregnancy weight gain were compared concerning maternal-neonatal results and mode of delivery. RESULTS: According to pre-pregnancy body mass index, among the obese pregnant group, gestational diabetes mellitus (p<0.001), preeclampsia (p=0.029), preterm delivery (p=0.011) and cesarean delivery (p=0.061) rates were more common. As the body mass index increases, neonatal intensive care requirement (p=0.0020) and low 1st minute APGAR scores (p=0.019) were detected more frequently. However, as pregnancy weight gain decreased, preterm delivery (p=0.041) increased. Also, birth weight increased (p<0.001) with the weight gain of the pregnant. Pregnant women gaining more than 16 kg were associated either with a lower <2500 g or a higher birth weight risk >4000 g. CONCLUSION: Pre-pregnancy high body mass index is associated with negative obstetric outcomes like gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and increased cesarean rates, and poor fetal incidences with a low APGAR score and high neonatal intensive care admission rates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cesarean is one of the most common surgeries in the world. This surgical procedure has complications such as anxiety and intraoperative hemorrhage. Various methods have been suggested to reduce anxiety and intraoperative hemorrhage. One of these methods is music therapy. This study was performed with aims to evaluate the effects of music therapy on intraoperative hemorrhage in patients undergoing cesarean with spinal anesthesia. Methods: This randomized clinical trial research with control group was conducted on 90 patients undergoing cesarean in 2019. The research subjects were divided into the intervention and control groups. Iguana music was played for patients in the intervention group for 15 minutes before and during surgery; then, hemorrhage and hemodynamic parameters were evaluated. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 16), and Kolmogorov-Smirnov, Paired t-test, Independent t-test and Chi-square test. P

Abstract Background With prelabour caesarean section rates growing globally, there is direct and indirect evidence of negative cognitive outcomes in childhood. The objective of this study was to assess the short-term neurodevelopmental outcomes after prelabour caesarean section as compared to vaginally born infants. Methods We conducted a prospective, observational study of infants delivered by prelabour caesarean section at the Hospital of Halland, Halmstad, Sweden and compared their development with an historical group of infants born by non-instrumental vaginal delivery. Results Infants born by prelabour caesarean section were compared with a group of vaginally born infants. Follow-up assessments were performed at 4 and 12 months. Prelabour caesarean infants (n = 66) had significantly lower Ages and Stages Questionnaire, second edition (ASQ-II) scores in all domains (communication, gross motor, fine motor, problem solving and personal-social) at 4 months of age with an adjusted mean difference (95% CI) of − 20.7 (− 28.7 to − 12.6) in ASQ-II total score as compared to vaginally born infants (n = 352). These differences remained for gross-motor skills at the 12 month assessment, adjusted mean difference (95% CI) -4.7 (− 8.8 to − 0.7), n = 62 and 336. Conclusions Adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants born by prelabour caesarean section may be apparent already a few months after birth. Additional studies are warranted to explore this relationship further.

Abstract Background Acute compartment syndrome is a limb-threatening and occasionally life-threatening emergency that is rarely reported as a complication following childbirth. Prompt diagnosis is crucial to avoid permanent functional restriction or even the loss of the affected limb. Clinical signs and symptoms might be nonspecific, especially in the early stages; therefore, knowledge of predisposing risk factors and signs and symptoms of acute compartment syndrome is necessary to prevent long-term complications and amputation. Case presentation This paper presents a case of a 26-year-old primiparous Sri Lankan woman who developed acute compartment syndrome of the lower right limb following childbirth by cesarean section. Conclusion Acute compartment syndrome is an important differential diagnosis in the setting of sudden onset of lower limb pain following childbirth. Predisposing factors for its manifestation within an obstetric environment are augmented labor, the lithotomy position, postpartum hemorrhage, hypotension following epidural analgesia, and the use of vasoconstrictive agents. If left undiagnosed and untreated, acute compartment syndrome may cause permanent neurovascular deficit, leading to a poor functional result, tissue ischemia, limb amputation, and rhabdomyolysis. If severe, and in large compartments, it can lead to renal failure and death. Alertness and a high index of clinical suspicion for the possibility of acute compartment syndrome are required to avoid a delay in diagnosis, and intracompartmental pressure measurement can be used to confirm the diagnosis.

Background: Recent interest has focused on the influence of obstetric anesthesia types on the immediate neonatal and maternal outcome. Aim of the work: The study was intended to assess the immediate neonatal and maternal outcome in relation to the maternal anesthesia type during cesarean section.Patients and methods: the present study included 200 full term neonates whose mothers underwent elective cesarean section (CS). They were grouped according to type of anesthesia given to mothers into group 1: included 100 newborns whose mothers had general anesthesia and group 2: included 100 newborns whose mothers had spinal anesthesia. Each newborn evaluated for short-term outcome including Apgar score, need for NICU admission and blood gas analysis. Mothers assessed for postoperative outcome. Results: No significant differences were discovered between the types of anesthesia used in regard to the general maternal characteristics. Neonatal outcomes on the other hand showed no significant differences as regard Apgar score (P=0.33) and NICU admission (P= 0.57), PaCO2, HCO3, Na and K; while PH and PaO2 were significantly lower with spinal anesthesia (P= 0.02 and 0.008 respectively). Additionally, spinal anesthesia was associated with rapid recovery of bowel and less need for postoperative analgesia. Conclusion: The type of anesthesia used in mothers undergoing full term elective cesarean deliveries does not seem to affect the immediate neonatal outcome. Both may be safely used in full term elective cesarean deliveries. However, spinal anesthesia had the advantage of lower need for postoperative analgesia with rapid recovery of bowel

Introduction: Cesarean section is considered as one of the most common gynecological surgeries. Pain after cesarean section can cause adverse effects to the mother. This shows the need to pay more attention to complementary therapies to reduce pain. Since prioritizing and evaluating the effectiveness of complementary therapies is of great importance, so this study was performed with aim to compare the effects of foot reflexology and auriculotherapy on pain after selective cesarean section. Methods: This randomized controlled clinical trial was performed on 168 cesarean candidates referred to teaching health centers of Rafsanjan University of Medical Sciences in 2018. The subjects were randomly assigned into 3 groups of reflexology, Auriclotherapy and control. Reflexology was performed twice in 24-hour interval and Auriculothera was performed continuously for 24 hours. In the control group, only the researcher was present without intervention. Data collection tools were demographic data form and VAS. Data were analyzed by SPSS software (version 21), and using one-way ANOVA and Tukey Multiple Comparison Test. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Mean pain intensity changes in the foot reflexology group (1.86±1.62) immediately after each intervention were lower than uriclotherapy group (1.45 ± 1.98) and the control group (0.64 ± 2.08) )p < 0.001). But in the uriclotherapy group, pain severity in the interval between the interventions was significantly decreased compared to the reflexology group. Conclusion: Foot reflexology was effective on immediate and short-term pain after cesarean section, and the effect of uriclotherapy with continuous stimulation of the shenmen point is more gradual and lasting. This reduced the need for analgesic use in the uriclotherapy group compared to other groups. Therefore, these two methods can be recommended to relieve pain in post-cesarean care.

Maged Labib Boules, Abeer Shaban Goda, Mahdy Ahmed Abdelhady, Shimaa Adel Abu El-Nour Abd El-Azeem, Mohamed Ahmed Hamed Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Cairo, EgyptCorrespondence: Mohamed Ahmed HamedDepartment of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63511, EgyptTel +2011 18 560 065Email mah07@fayoum.edu.egBackground: This study compared the analgesic efficacy of a bilateral erector spinae plane (ESP) block with that of a bilateral transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block after elective cesarean delivery.Methods: Sixty mothers scheduled for elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia were randomly allocated to receive either ESP block or TAP block. The ESP group received ESP block at the level of the ninth thoracic transverse process with 20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine at the end of surgery. The TAP group received an ultrasound-guided TAP block with 20 mL of 0.25% bupivacaine on completion of delivery. The primary outcome was the duration of analgesia achieved by each block. Secondary outcome measures were the postoperative pain severity, total tramadol consumption, patient satisfaction.Results: The median (interquartile range) duration of block was longer in the ESP group than in the TAP group (12 hours [10, 14] vs 8 hours [8, 8], p< 0.0001). In the first 24 hours, the mean visual analog pain score at rest was lower by 0.32 units in the ESP group. The median tramadol consumption in the first 24 hours was significantly higher in the TAP group than in the ESP group (125 mg [100, 150] vs 100 mg [75, 100, p=0.003]).Conclusion: Compared with the TAP block, the ESP block provides more effective pain relief, has a longer duration of analgesic action, prolongs time to first analgesic requirement, is associated with less tramadol consumption, and can be used in multimodal analgesia and opioid-sparing regimens after cesarean section.Keywords: erector spinae plane block, transversus abdominis plane block, cesarean, analgesia, tramadol

Abstract Background In many low and medium human development index countries, the rate of maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality is high. One factor which may influence this is the decision-to-delivery interval of emergency cesarean section. We aimed to investigate the maternal risk factors, indications and decision-to-delivery interval of emergency cesarean section in a large, under-resourced obstetric setting in Uganda. Methods Records of 344 singleton pregnancies delivered at ≥24 weeks throughout June 2017 at Mulago National Referral Hospital were analysed using Cox proportional hazards models and multivariate logistic regression models. Results An emergency cesarean section was performed every 104 min and the median decision-to-delivery interval was 5.5 h. Longer interval was associated with preeclampsia and premature rupture of membranes/oligohydramnios. Fetal distress was associated with a shorter interval (p 0.05). Mothers waited on average 6 h longer for deliveries between 00:00–08:00 compared to those between 12:00–20:00 (p

Background & Objective: Most pregnant women experience a degree of stress before and after cesarean. Stress can have unfavorable complications for the mother and the baby. Given the probable relationship of social support with the amount of stress, the present study aimed to determine the relationship between perceived social support and stress, before and after cesarean in pregnant women referring to Besat Hospital in Sanandaj in 2018. Materials & methods: This study was a descriptive-correlational and cross-sectional study performed on 180 pregnant women under selective cesarean section surgery in 2018. Using the available sampling method, pregnant women referring to Besat Hospital in Sanandaj were selected with the criteria to enter the study. The data collection method in this study was a two-part questionnaire of demographic and midwifery information, perceived social support questionnaire and Dass 21 stress questionnaire. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 16, descriptive statistics, and the Pearson correlation test. Results: Results indicated that the degree of the overall rate of stress, before cesarean was 36.1% and in the post operation stage 13.9% respectively. Besides, there was a negative significant difference between social support and stress, before the operation (p

Mohamed Ahmed Hamed, Hany Mahmoud Yassin, Joseph Makram Botros, Mahdy Ahmed Abdelhady Department of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63511, EgyptCorrespondence: Mohamed Ahmed HamedDepartment of Anesthesiology, Faculty of Medicine, Fayoum University, Fayoum 63511, EgyptTel +2011 1 856 0065Email mah07@fayoum.edu.egBackground: We aimed to assess the efficacy of ultrasound-guided bilateral erector spinae plane block (ESPB) compared to intrathecal morphine (ITM) for analgesia after elective cesarean delivery under spinal anesthesia.Methods: In total, 140 parturients scheduled for elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia were randomly allocated into two equal groups. The ESPB-group received 10 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine intrathecally through spinal anesthesia, followed by an ESPB at the ninth thoracic transverse process with 20 mL of 0.5% bupivacaine immediately after the operation. The ITM-group received 10 mg hyperbaric bupivacaine with 100 mcg morphine intrathecally through spinal anesthesia, followed by a sham block at the end of the surgery. The visual analogue scale (VAS) score for pain at several postoperative time points, total opioid consumption, and time to the first analgesic request were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed with the independent t-test and linear mixed-effects models. The Kaplan–Meier estimator and the log-rank test were used to compare the primary and secondary outcomes of the groups.Results: No significant differences were observed between the groups regarding patient characteristics; in the post-operative period (0– 24 hrs), VAS scores (at rest) were, on average, 0.25 units higher in the ITM group. The total tramadol consumption in the first 24 hrs was significantly higher in the ITM group than in the ESPB group (101.71 ± 25.67 mg vs 44 ± 16.71 mg, respectively). The time to the first analgesic request was 4.93± 0.82 hrs in the ITM group and 12± 2.81 hrs in the ESPB group. Patient satisfaction did not differ significantly.Conclusion: ESPB has a successful postoperative analgesic effect and may limit opioid consumption in parturients undergoing elective caesarean delivery.Keywords: erector spinae plane block, intrathecal morphine, cesarean, analgesia

Background: The rate of Cesarean Section (CS) is high in Iran. A successful Vaginal Birth After Cesarean (VBAC) section can protect mothers against the risk of having multiple CS. This study aimed to evaluate the success rate of VBAC, related factors, and the causes of failure. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 150 pregnant women who were candidates for VBAC and admitted at maternity hospitals in Qom from 2016 to 2018. The required data were collected from the patients' records and entered into the checklist. Then, the success rate of VBAC was estimated, and related factors together with the causes of failure were determined by t-test, Chi-square, and independent-samples t-tests in SPSS v. 18 software. Results: The mean (SD) maternal age was 32 (5.20) years and ranged from 21 to 45 years old. The success rate of VBAC was estimated to be 85.33%, and 14.67% of the patients had to repeat a CS after failure in vaginal delivery. The mean time between previous CS and present delivery was statistically significant between successful and failure groups (t125 = 2.32, p = 0.002). The results also revealed that the most important causes of VBAC failure were prolonged labor [odds ratio (OR) = 4.70)], full arrest (OR = 2.70), and decline fetal heart (OR = 5.31). Conclusions: The success rate of VBAC in our study was high. However, VBAC was more successful when the interval between inter-deliveries was long, and lower complications were reported when the interval was 2–4 years.

Introduction: Surgical site infection (SSI) is caused by cesarean section in the hospital and its prevalence in the studies is up to 16%. Objectives: This study aimed to compare the rate of infection in women undergoing cesarean section. Oral clindamycin and cefalexin were administered for 48 hours as prophylactic antibiotics. Patients and Methods: In this clinical trial study, women with emergency cesarean section were divided into two groups. Intervention was oral administration of cefalexin 500mg every 6 hours and clindamycin 300 mg every 6 hours for 48 hours. All participants were referred to the gynecology center on day 7–10, at the time of removal of the sutures, and within 30 days after cesarean section, to assess the presence or absence of wound infection after surgery during 30 days. Results: In this clinical trial study, 462 pregnant women undergoing cesarean section were enrolled in the intervention and control groups. Of 231 patients in the intervention group, 15 women (6.5%) had cesarean section infection (13 cases with superficial, and 2 cases with deep infection). In the control group, 45 cases (19.5%) had cesarean section infection (31 cases with superficial, 10 cases with deep, and 4 cases with developed pelvic infection) (P = 0.001). Age, pre-cesarean length of stay, pre-term incision, type of incision, discharge longer than 18 hours after cesarean section, and maternal diabetes were significantly different regarding cesarean section infection in both groups. The frequency of cesarean section infection was less in the intervention group (P

Abstract Objective The aim of this study was to measure the effect of obesity and systemic opioids on respiratory events within the first 24 hours following cesarean. Methods Opioid-naive women undergoing cesarean between January 2016 and December 2017 were included in this retrospective cohort study. The primary outcome was the proportion of women experiencing at least one composite respiratory outcome (oxygen saturation less than 95% lasting 30+ seconds or need for respiratory support) within 24 hours of cesarean. The impact of obesity and total systemic opioid dose in 24 hours (measured in morphine milligram equivalents [MMEs]) on the composite respiratory compromise outcome were evaluated. Results Of 2,230 cesarean births, 790 women had at least one composite respiratory event. Predictors of the composite respiratory outcome included body mass index (BMI) as a continuous variable (odds ratio = 1.063 for every one unit increase in BMI [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.021–1.108], p = 0.003), and MME (odds ratio = 1.005 [95% CI: 1.002–1.008], p = 0.003), adjusting for magnesium sulfate use. The interaction between obesity and opioid dose demonstrated an odds ratio of 1.000 (95% CI: 0.999–1.000, p = 0.030). Conclusion The proportion of women experiencing respiratory events following cesarean birth increases with the degree of obesity and opioid dose. Key Points Respiratory events increase with obesity. Respiratory events increase with systemic opioid use. Odds ratio of respiratory events is 1.063/unit BMI increase.

Introduction: In Romania, the latest official report indicates that more than half of the births (80,890 cases, representing 52.88% of the total) are performed by cesarean, a rate significantly higher than the World Health Organization (WHO) recommendation of 15-20%. This study aims to identify the predictors associated with women's decisions to opt for cesarean in Romania., Materials and Methods:  An analytical cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the general population of Romania. The study was carried out over the course of 2023, with a total duration of four months. During this period, researchers targeted pregnant women from various regions of the country, regardless of their place of residence, age, or education level. The primary data collection tool was a self-administered online questionnaire, distributed via Google Forms, an accessible and efficient platform that allows for automatic response collection. The questionnaire was distributed online, particularly on social media platforms frequented by pregnant women, such as Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok., Results: A total of 1,301 participants were validated. Socio-demographic and clinical factors significantly influence women's decisions to give birth by cesarean. Among these participants, 435 expressed a preference for cesarean delivery. Key predictors include fear of pain and concern for the child's health. Fear of pain at birth is the first predictor in Romanian women to choose cesarean (OR=2.09; 95% CI: 1.62-2.68). Concerns about the child's health do not increase the likelihood of opting for a cesarean., Conclusion:  By utilizing valuable resources such as midwives and implementing strategies like birth plans, significant contributions can be made toward reducing the cesarean rate and improving the childbirth experience for women worldwide., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Ethics Committee of the Emergency County Hospital issued approval 41482/09.08.2022. Animal subjects: All authors have confirmed that this study did not involve animal subjects or tissue. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Radu et al.)

Background: Recent studies have suggested that pregnancy accelerates biologic aging, yet little is known about how biomarkers of aging are affected by events during the peripartum period. Given that immune shifts are known to occur following surgery, we explored the relation between mode of delivery and postpartum maternal leukocyte telomere length (LTL), a marker of biologic aging., Study Design: Postpartum maternal blood samples were obtained from a prospective cohort of term, singleton livebirths without hypertensive disorders or peripartum infections between 2012 and 2018. The primary outcome was postpartum LTLs from one blood sample drawn between postpartum week 1 and up to 6 months postpartum, measured from thawed frozen peripheral blood mononuclear cells using quantitative PCR in basepairs (bp). Multivariable linear regression models compared LTLs between vaginal versus cesarean births, adjusting for age, body mass index, and nulliparity as potential confounders. Analyses were conducted in two mutually exclusive groups: those with LTL measured postpartum week 1 and those measured up to 6 months postpartum. Secondarily, we compared multiomics by mode of delivery using machine-learning methods to evaluate whether other biologic changes occurred following cesarean. These included transcriptomics, metabolomics, microbiomics, immunomics, and proteomics (serum and plasma)., Results: Of 67 included people, 50 (74.6 %) had vaginal and 17 (25.4 %) had cesarean births. LTLs were significantly shorter after cesarean in postpartum week 1 (5755.2 bp cesarean versus 6267.8 bp vaginal, p = 0.01) as well as in the later draws (5586.6 versus 5945.6 bp, p = 0.04). After adjusting for confounders, these differences persisted in both week 1 (adjusted beta -496.1, 95 % confidence interval [CI] -891.1, -101.1, p = 0.01) and beyond (adjusted beta -396.8; 95 % CI -727.2, -66.4. p = 0.02). Among the 15 participants who also had complete postpartum multiomics data available, there were predictive signatures of vaginal versus cesarean births in transcriptomics (cell-free [cf]RNA), metabolomics, microbiomics, and proteomics that did not persist after false discovery correction., Conclusion: Maternal LTLs in postpartum week 1 were nearly 500 bp shorter following cesarean. This difference persisted several weeks postpartum, even though other markers of inflammation had normalized. Mode of delivery should be considered in any analyses of postpartum LTLs and further investigation into this phenomenon is warranted., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors declare that they have no known competing financial interests or personal relationships that could have appeared to influence the work reported in this paper., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.)

Objective: The intrauterine balloon tamponade (IUBT) is one of the major tool to manage the postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). Previous studies identified factors predicting IUBT failure regardless the mode of delivery. Our aim was to determine if IUBT predictive failure can be determined regarding the mode of delivery., Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study among women who had IUBT secondary to severe PPH after vaginal or cesarean delivery from 2012 until 2021 at Lille (France). We compared 2 groups: success or failure of the IUBT, which was defined as the need of additional invasive procedures (uterine embolization or surgical procedure)., Results: We included 238 women, 83 who underwent cesarean and 155 vaginal delivery. The overall success of the IUBT was 78% (80% for vaginal delivery and 75% for cesarean delivery). In the vaginal delivery group with failed IUBT, coagulopathies were significantly more frequent (84.2 vs. 33.3% P=<0.001) with higher estimated blood loss at the use of the IUBT (1865.8 vs. 1580.8mL, P=0.015) compared with the vaginal delivery group with success of IUBT. In the cesarean delivery group, none factor was significant between the two groups., Conclusion: It is possible to identify predictors of IUBT failure in case of vaginal delivery. In contrast, in case of cesarean delivery, there is no apparent predictive facto. It could be interesting to validate our findings in a multicentric study., (Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). Published by Elsevier Masson SAS.. All rights reserved.)

Introduction: Despite increasing incidence of impacted fetal head at cesarean birth and associated injury, it is unclear which techniques are most effective for prevention and management. A high quality evidence review in accordance with international reporting standards is currently lacking. To address this gap, we aimed to identify, assess, and synthesize studies comparing techniques to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth prior to or at full cervical dilatation., Material and Methods: We searched MEDLINE, Emcare, Embase and Cochrane databases up to 1 January 2023 (PROSPERO: CRD420212750016). Included were randomized controlled trials (any size) and non-randomized comparative studies (n ≥ 30 in each arm) comparing techniques or adjunctive measures to prevent or manage impacted fetal head at cesarean birth. Following screening and data extraction, we assessed risk of bias for individual studies using RoB2 and ROBINS-I, and certainty of evidence using GRADE. We synthesized data using meta-analysis where appropriate, including sensitivity analyses excluding data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction., Results: We identified 24 eligible studies (11 randomized and 13 non-randomized) including 3558 women, that compared vaginal disimpaction, reverse breech extraction, the Patwardhan method and/or the Fetal Pillow®. GRADE certainty of evidence was low or very low for all 96 outcomes across seven reported comparisons. Pooled analysis mostly showed no or equivocal differences in outcomes across comparisons of techniques. Although some maternal outcomes suggested differences between techniques (eg risk ratio of 3.41 [95% CI: 2.50-4.66] for uterine incision extension with vaginal disimpaction vs. reverse breech extraction), these were based on unreliable pooled estimates given very low GRADE certainty and, in some cases, additional risk of bias introduced by data published in potential predatory journals or at risk of retraction., Conclusions: The current weaknesses in the evidence base mean that no firm recommendations can be made about the superiority of any one impacted fetal head technique over another, indicating that high quality training is needed across the range of techniques. Future studies to improve the evidence base are urgently required, using a standard definition of impacted fetal head, agreed maternal and neonatal outcome sets for impacted fetal head, and internationally recommended reporting standards., (© 2024 The Author(s). Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Nordic Federation of Societies of Obstetrics and Gynecology (NFOG).)

Background: Rates of cesarean birth (CBs) are steadily increasing and account for 36.7% of all births in New South Wales (NSW), with primary cesareans driving the increase. NSW Health guidelines recommend women attempt a vaginal birth after a previous CB (VBAC); however, rates of VBAC are decreasing, particularly within the private hospital setting. This study aimed to determine the rates of adverse outcomes for women who planned a VBAC (pVBAC) compared with women who planned an elective repeat CB (pERCB) at one private hospital in Sydney, Australia., Method: This retrospective data review evaluated patient records over a 10-year period (2010-2019). Records (n = 2039) were divided into four groups: pVBAC, pVBAC + EMCB, labor + ERCB (lab + ERCB), and pERCB. The incidence of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes is reported as counts and percentages. Regression and chi-squared tests were used to compare groups. Significance was determined at a p-value of <0.05., Results: Overall, very low rates (N = 148, 7.3%) of women had a VBAC compared with a repeat CB at this private hospital over the 10-year period. The incidence of adverse outcomes was low regardless of study group. Outcomes differed significantly between groups for postpartum hemorrhage (pERCB seven times less likely than VBAC group) and special care nursery admission (pVBAC + EMCB is 4.6 times more likely than in the VBAC group)., Conclusion: Overall, it is safe to attempt a VBAC at this private hospital, and labor after a cesarean should be recommended, yet very few women had a VBAC at the study site. The incidence of adverse outcomes was low compared with other published research., (© 2024 The Authors. Birth published by Wiley Periodicals LLC.)

Background: There is a lack of evidence on the importance of pain or other aspects of clinical care in the overall patient experience and patient-centered outcomes in cesarean delivery. The purpose of this study was to discover patient priorities in cesarean delivery anesthesia experience, to compare patient and provider perspectives, and to explore attitudes on shared decision-making around anesthesia choices for cesarean delivery., Methods: Patients with recent cesarean deliveries and clinical care providers were approached using a purposeful sampling strategy for this prospective observational qualitative study. Patients were included if they were in the hospital within 72 hours of a cesarean delivery (scheduled or unscheduled), spoke English fluently, and had term gestation. Providers were included if they currently provide regular clinical care to patients having cesarean deliveries and have at least 3 years of practice experience. Semi-structured interviews were conducted using an interview guide. Interview transcripts were independently coded by three coders and qualitatively analyzed for major themes until thematic saturation was achieved., Results: A total of 42 participants (20 patients and 22 providers) completed interviews. Five major themes emerged reflecting patient attitudes and beliefs toward cesarean delivery experience: 1) effective communication, education, and respect; 2) emotional support by care team; 3) intraoperative pain or discomfort; 4) varying acceptability around pain therapies; 5) stigma surrounding cesarean delivery. Five major themes emerged reflecting provider attitudes and beliefs toward cesarean delivery priorities: 1) complexity of pain responses; 2) multiple pain control strategies; 3) effective communication during emergency cesarean delivery; 4) patient psychological well-being during cesarean delivery; 5) barriers to observing the patients' birth plans., Conclusions: Patients and providers alike prioritize pain management, psychological well-being, and effective communication during cesarean delivery experiences. Patients emphasize relationships and trust in their cesarean experience, while clinicians emphasize clinical complexities and physical treatments. Our results guide future research in patient perspectives in cesarean deliveries., Competing Interests: Competing interests: Dr Lim receives salary and research support from NIH UH3CA261067, NIH R01MH134538, and PCORI. Dr Lim receives research support, consulting honoraria, and chairs or is member of advisory board from industry: Octapharma, Heron Pharmaceuticals, Edwards Lifesciences, Haemonetics all not related to this publication. Dr Lim receives stipends for medical expert testimony not related to this publication. Dr Lim receives royalties from Cambridge University Press for a textbook. Dr Lim is a past member of the SOAP board of directors, consultant reviewer for ACOG, and ASA liaison to the ACOG Alliance for Innovation on Maternal Health’s (AIM) Clinical and Community Advisory Group. All other authors declare no disclosures.

Background: To reduce maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality, it is becoming increasingly important for anesthetists to understand and implement enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) cesarean delivery guidelines. Our aim was to reveal the knowledge of anesthesia assistants in Turkey about ERAS during cesarean delivery and to increase their awareness of ERAS., Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in the city of Isparta, Turkey in 2023. The survey, which was approved by the ethics committee, was distributed to participants across Turkey via e-mail and online messages. The survey comprises of a total of 42 questions evaluating perioperative ERAS recommendations., Results: Of the 404 participants in our survey, 59.9% were associated with university hospitals and 65.8% had completed three or more years of education. A total of 87.9% of the participants were familiar with ERAS; however, only 42.8% had received ERAS training. Although 93.8% of the participants' institutions performed a cesarean delivery, ERAS recommendations were only implemented at a rate of 48%. This may be due to the absence of an ERAS team, which was identified in our survey at a high rate of 66.6%., Conclusion: Awareness about ERAS was high among the participants, but the implementation rates of some recommendations were low. The reason for this may be the inability to form a multidisciplinary team and inadequate training of participants. For this purpose, we recommend the formation of a multidisciplinary team for ERAS protocol implementation and increased participant training opportunities., (© 2024. The Author(s).)

Background: In the United States, approximately 1% of pregnancies are complicated by pregestational diabetes. Individuals with type 1 diabetes have an increased risk of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. While continuous glucose monitoring has demonstrated benefits for patients with type 1 diabetes, its cost is higher than traditional intermittent fingerstick monitoring, particularly if used only during pregnancy., Objective: To develop an economic analysis model to compare in silico the cost of continuous glucose monitoring and self-monitoring of blood glucose in a cohort of pregnant individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus., Study Design: We developed an economic analysis model to compare two glucose monitoring strategies in pregnant individuals with type 1 diabetes: continuous glucose monitoring and self-monitoring. The model considered hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, large for gestational age, cesarean delivery, neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission, and neonatal hypoglycemia. The primary outcome was the total cost per strategy in 2022 USD from a health system perspective, with self-monitoring as the reference group. Probabilities, relative risks, and costs were extracted from the literature, and the costs were adjusted to 2022 US dollars. Sensitivity analyses were conducted by varying parameters based on the probability, relative risk, and cost distributions. The robustness of the results was tested through 1000 Monte Carlo simulations., Results: In the base-case analysis, the cost of pregnancy using continuous glucose monitoring was $26,837 compared to $29,039 for self-monitoring, resulting in a cost reduction of $2,202 per individual. The parameters with the greatest effect on the incremental cost included the relative risk of NICU admission, cost of NICU admission, continuous glucose monitoring costs, and usual care costs. Monte Carlo simulations indicated that continuous glucose monitoring was the optimal strategy 98.7% of the time. One-way sensitivity analysis showed that continuous glucose monitoring was more economical if the relative risk of NICU admission with continuous glucose monitoring vs. self-monitoring was below 1.15., Conclusion: Compared to self-monitoring, continuous glucose monitoring is an economical strategy for pregnant individuals with type 1 diabetes mellitus., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Severe preeclampsia and pulmonary edema pose significant challenges for an anesthesiologist. Pregnancy is associated with major physiologic changes to meet the increased demands of the mother and fetus. Preeclampsia complicates this balance by adding additional stress to the mother and baby. Pulmonary edema is a rare complication of preeclampsia, and it is a potentially life-threatening condition. Meticulous care is needed in the anesthetic management of this condition, especially when the patient is morbidly obese and presents for an emergency cesarean section., Competing Interests: Human subjects: Consent was obtained or waived by all participants in this study. Conflicts of interest: In compliance with the ICMJE uniform disclosure form, all authors declare the following: Payment/services info: All authors have declared that no financial support was received from any organization for the submitted work. Financial relationships: All authors have declared that they have no financial relationships at present or within the previous three years with any organizations that might have an interest in the submitted work. Other relationships: All authors have declared that there are no other relationships or activities that could appear to have influenced the submitted work., (Copyright © 2024, Ethy Ahammedunni et al.)

Background and Aims: Regional techniques are a part of multimodal analgesia following cesarean delivery. Cesarean delivery warrants a regional technique, which can provide somatic and visceral analgesia-like quadratus lumborum block (QLB) and erector spinae plane block (ESPB). In this study, we investigated the non-inferiority of ESPB at T12 and transmuscular-QLB (TQLB) at L2-L3 for postoperative analgesia in cesarean delivery., Material and Methods: In this prospective, randomized, non-inferiority trial, 124 patients undergoing cesarean delivery were enrolled to receive bilateral TQLB or ESPB with 20 mL of 0.25% ropivacaine on each side. All patients received prophylactic acetaminophen and ketorolac for 2 days. Our primary objective was to compare the total tramadol consumption in the first 48 h between the two groups. Secondary objectives were to compare cumulative tramadol consumption, postoperative Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) score at rest, and with movement at various time points, the time for first rescue analgesic requirement, development of complications related to the block, and patient satisfaction with analgesia between the two groups., Results: The total tramadol consumption in 48 h (47.3 ± 34.9 mg in ESPB and 50.9 ± 38.7 mg in TQLB), duration of first rescue analgesic (22.8 ± 15.8 h in ESPB and 22.7 ± 15.6 h in TQLB), and patient satisfaction were similar between the two groups. Both groups had similar pain scores except at rest at 6 h and on movement at 4 h, 6 h, and 36 h, whereas the ESPB group had lower NRS scores ( P < 0.05)., Conclusion: The analgesic effect of bilateral ESPB at T12 was non-inferior to that of bilateral TQLB post-caesarean delivery., Competing Interests: There are no conflicts of interest., (Copyright: © 2024 Journal of Anaesthesiology Clinical Pharmacology.)

Aims/introduction: A debate exists on the relation of adverse pregnancy outcomes with glycemic levels in early pregnancy. We aimed to investigate the association of maternal characteristics including post-load glucose and first-trimester HbA1c test results with adverse pregnancy outcomes in women without gestational diabetes mellitus., Materials and Methods: A dataset (January 2011 and September 2017) from a hospital prenatal clinic was explored to find the important predictors of adverse pregnancy outcomes using maternal characteristics and glucose assessments in mothers without gestational diabetes. We used two machine learning algorithms to capture nonlinearity in selecting important maternal characteristics and developed predictive models for each outcome. In total, 1,618 pregnant women were included in the analytic dataset with a mean (SD) age of 26.8 (3.5) years and gravida of 1.7 (0.9)., Results: Important associations were detected between maternal features and primary cesarean section, fetal distress, premature rupture of membranes, macrosomia, small or large for gestational age, APGAR <7 at 1 or 5 min, hyperbilirubinemia, and poly- or oligo-hydramnios. Overall, the predictive models showed good performance and large areas under the curves (0.732, 0.765, 0.646, 0.651, 0.730, 0.646, 0.684, 0.716, and 0.678, respectively). Specifically, they had high positive likelihood ratios., Conclusions: High glucose levels were associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes. Post-load glucose was the most reliable test for predicting the outcomes. Overall, fasting blood sugar was of more predictive value than HbA1c. Our study showed that further research should account for the nonlinearity and interactions inherent in the data., (© 2024 The Authors. Journal of Diabetes Investigation published by Asian Association for the Study of Diabetes (AASD) and John Wiley & Sons Australia, Ltd.)

The prevalence of the Fontan operation was estimated to be 0.11 per 100 000 people across 11 nations. The number of women reaching childbearing age after the Fontan procedure is steadily increasing. We present a case of 24-year-old primigravida at 36 weeks with tricuspid atresia, ventricular septal defect, and pulmonary stenosis with Fontan circulation for elective cesarean section. Her preoperative blood investigations were normal and echo showed patent Fontan flow. This was the first time in our institution that we handled a parturient for a cesarean section that had Fontan circulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Cesarean section is the single most important risk factor for postpartum infection. Where the rest of the world shows increasing trends, the cesarean section rates are low in Norway and risk factors for infection after cesarean section may differ in high and low cesarean section settings. The goal of this study was to examine independent risk factors for surgical site infection after cesarean delivery in a setting of low cesarean section rates. Material and methods: We conducted a hospital‐based case‐control study at Haukeland University Hospital. We included women who presented to our hospital with surgical site infection after cesarean section during the years 2014–2016 (n = 75). Controls were selected at a ratio of 2:1 (n = 148). Cases and controls were compared with respect to maternal and pregnancy characteristics using uni‐ and multivariable logistic regression models. Main outcome measures were anticipated risk factors for surgical site infection. Results: The occurrence of surgical site infection was 0.4% and 5.4% after elective and emergency cesarean section, respectively. Compared to women without surgical site infection, women with surgical site infection were almost thrice more obese before pregnancy (OR 2.8, 95% CI 1.2–7.0), four times more likely to have preexisting psychiatric conditions (OR 4.4, 95% CI 1.1–17.6), and five times more likely to receive blood transfusion (OR 5.1, 95% CI 1.4–18.8). Signs of infection during labor was a marginally significant risk factor for surgical site infection (OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.0–5.4). Conclusions: Emergency cesarean section was a significant risk factor for surgical site infection. Pregestational obesity, preexisting psychiatric conditions, and blood transfusion during or following delivery, were independent risk factors for surgical site infection. Signs of infection during labor was a marginally significant risk factor. Women with either of these risk factors should be carefully monitored and evaluated for signs of infection in the postpartum period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The rate of labor induction has risen steeply throughout the world. This project aimed to estimate changes in the rates of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes in Iceland between 1997 and 2018, and to assess whether the changes can be explained by an increased rate of labor induction. Methods: Singleton live births, occurring between 1997 and 2018, that did not start by prelabor cesarean, were identified from the Icelandic Medical Birth Register (n = 85 971). Rates of intrapartum cesarean birth (CB), obstetric emergencies, and neonatal outcomes were calculated, and adjusted risk ratios (aRRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were estimated with log‐binomial regression (reference: 1997‐2001). Adjustments were made for: (a) maternal characteristics, and (b) labor induction and gestational age. Results: The rate of labor induction increased from 13.6% in the period 1997‐2001 to 28.1% in the period 2014‐2018. The rate of intrapartum CB decreased between the periods of 1997‐2001 and 2014‐2018 for both primiparous (aRR 0.76, 95% CI: 0.69 to 0.84) and multiparous women (aRR 0.55, 95% CI: 0.49 to 0.63). The rate of obstetric emergencies and adverse neonatal outcomes also decreased between these time periods. Adjusting for labor induction did not attenuate these associations. Conclusions: The rates of adverse maternal outcomes and adverse neonatal outcomes decreased over the study period. However, there was no evidence that this decrease could be explained by the increased rate of labor induction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spinal anesthesia is the recommended technique in elective cesarean sections. Usage of vasopressors is more widely accepted as an effective method for decreasing postspinal hypotension than fluid loading. However, the ideal vasopressor to prevent spinal hypotension during cesarean section has been a subject of much debate. It should maintain maternal blood pressure and placental perfusion, with minimal adverse effect on fetus and mother. Aim: The primary aim was to compare the effect of prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine versus norepinephrine versus ephedrine in the prevention of postspinal hypotension in elective cesarean section. The secondary aim was to assess their effects on neonate. Methods: Seventy-five patients were enrolled in this study and randomly divided into three groups. Group P received phenylephrine infusion and group N received norepinephrine infusion, while group E received ephedrine infusion. The changes in mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate were recorded throughout the surgery. Maternal and neonatal perioperative complications were controlled and recorded. Results: MAP were higher in the ephedrine group than the phenylephrine and norepinephrine groups. Maternal tachycardia was significantly more common in ephedrine, and bradycardia was more common in phenylephrine group without significant difference. Nausea and vomiting were more common in ephedrine group. Neonatal acidosis was lesser in phenylephrine and norepinephrine groups than in the ephedrine group. Conclusion: Prophylactic infusion of phenylephrine and norepinephrine can be successfully used to prevent postspinal hypotension in parturient undergoing cesarean section with less drawbacks and fetal well-being than ephedrine. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Despite the increasing trend in delayed childbirth and the known associated complications in advancing maternal age, limited information exists regarding outcomes in very advanced maternal age by delivery type. This study aims to evaluate maternal and neonatal outcomes in women age 40 or more undergoing cesarean delivery or trial of labor after cesarean delivery.Materials and Methods: We performed a secondary analysis of the Cesarean Section Registry Maternal-Fetal Medicine Units (MFMU) Network data, which was a prospective study of women undergoing repeat cesarean delivery or trial of labor after cesarean delivery from 1 January 1999 to 31 December 2002. Women age 40 years or more at the time of delivery were compared to the control group of women less than 40 years of age.Results: There were 67,389 cases identified that met inclusion criteria. 2,436 (3.6%) were age ≥40 years old, and 65,403 (97.05%) were <40 at delivery. The >40 group had a higher rate of PRBC transfusion (aRR 1.75; 95% CI 1.20-2.56), maternal ICU admission (aRR 2.02; 1.41-2.89), bowel injury (aRR 3.65; 1.43-9.31), placenta accreta (aRR 1.92; 1.09-3.38) and classical uterine incision (aRR 1.59; 1.43-9.31) compared to the control group. Maternal death rates were similar in both groups (p = .30).Conclusion: Women aged 40 or more undergoing repeat cesarean delivery or trial of labor after cesarean delivery are more likely to have maternal complications including intraoperative transfusion, maternal ICU admission, abnormal placentation and surgical complications in comparison to women under age 40. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective  This study was aimed to evaluate opioid use after cesarean delivery (CD) and to assess implementation of an enhanced recovery after CD (ERAS-CD) pathway and its association with inpatient and postdischarge pain control and opioid use. Study Design  We conducted a baseline survey of women who underwent CD from January to March 2017 at a single, urban academic hospital. Patients were called 5 to 8 days after discharge and asked about their pain and postdischarge opioid use. An ERAS-CD pathway was implemented as a quality improvement initiative, including use of nonopioid analgesia and standardization of opioid discharge prescriptions to ≤25 tablets of oxycodone of 5 mg. From November to January 2019, a postimplementation survey was conducted to assess the association between this initiative and patients' pain control and postoperative opioid use, both inpatient and postdischarge. Results  Data were obtained from 152 women preimplementation (PRE) and 137 women post-implementation (POST); complete survey data were obtained from 102 women PRE and 98 women POST. The median inpatient morphine milligram equivalents consumed per patient decreased significantly from 141 [range: 90–195] PRE to 114 [range: 45–168] POST (p  = 0.002). On a 0- to 10-point scale, median patient-reported pain scores at discharge decreased significantly (PRE: 7 [range: 5–8] vs. POST 5 [range: 3–7], p  < 0.001). The median number of pills consumed after discharge also decreased significantly (PRE: 25 [range: 16–30] vs. POST 17.5 [range: 4–25], p  = 0.001). The number of pills consumed was significantly associated with number prescribed (p  < 0.001). The median number of leftover pills and number of refills did not significantly differ between groups. Median patient-reported pain scores at the week after discharge were lower in the POST group (PRE: 4 [range: 2–6] vs. POST 3[range: 1–5], p  = 0.03). Conclusion  Implementing an ERAS-CD pathway was associated with a significant decrease in inpatient and postdischarge opioid consumption while improving pain control. Our data suggest that even fewer pills could be prescribed for some patients. Key Points An ERAS-CD pathway was associated with decreased opioid use. Outpatient opioid consumption after cesarean warrants further study. Physician prescribing drives patients' opioid consumption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Spinal anesthesia is a type of neuraxial anesthesia that brings ample benefits. However, due to the fear of this type of anesthesia, many pregnant people refuse to experience it. In this study, we aimed to investigate the levels and causes of fear of spinal anesthesia in candidates for cesarean section. Methods: The current study is a cross-sctional study performed on 67 patients undergoing cesarean section who were referred to the operation room of Shariati Hospital, in Tehran from September 2018 to September 2019. Matthey questionnaire, which consisted of three sections (demographic information, history of spinal anesthesia and fear of anesthesia), was filled out by candidates and after collecting information, the data were analyzed by SPSS software. Results: Pain over the surgery showed a significant relationship with the history of spinal anesthesia in 4 pregnant women (12.9%) and in 25 women (65.8%) without a history of anesthesia (P<0.0001). In addition, the fear of being awake and looking at the cesarean section during surgery was significant in 7 patients (22.6%) with a history of spinal anesthesia and 18 patients (47.4%) without a history of disease (P<0.0001). Fear of anesthesia needle was also significantly observed in 7 patients (23.3%) with a history of spinal anesthesia and 23 patients (60.5%) with no history of spinal anesthesia (P<0.0001). Fear of back injury was seen in 9 candidates (29%) of patients with a history of spinal anesthesia and in 23 patients (60.5%) of patients without a history of anesthesia (P<0.033). The results of our study also showed a significant relationship between the history of general anesthesia and fear of nausea and vomiting (P<0.046) as well as fear of anesthesia needles (P<0.001). Conclusion: Patients with a history of spinal anesthesia were significantly less afraid of feeling pain during surgery, seeing surgery, spinal anesthesia needles, and spinal impairments. Moreover, patients with a history of general anesthesia were significantly more afraid of spinal anesthesia, nausea and vomiting than others. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To evaluate the safety and effectiveness of myomectomy during cesarean section. The data of fifty-four pregnant who underwent cesarean myomectomy and twenty-six pregnant with uterine leiomyoma who had cesarean section without myomectomy between the years of 2017 and 2020 in our tertiary clinic were examined retrospectively. There was no significant difference in terms of maternal age, weeks of gestation, gravida, parity, use of additional uterotonics, type of leiomyoma, size of leiomyoma, cesarean indications, blood transfusion requirement, postoperative fever, preoperative hemoglobin (g/dl), change in hemoglobin (g/dl), preoperative hematocrit (%), change in hematocrit (%), length of hospital stay between the two groups (p>0.05). While no significant difference was observed according to the location of the leiomyomas between the anterior, fundal and posterior location between the two groups, cervical leiomyomas were significantly higher in the CS group (p>0.05). This study shows that cesarean myomectomy is a safe procedure in selected cases. It also offers the advantage of avoiding a second operation in patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Regional anesthesia is frequently used in obstetric, orthopedic, and urological procedures, commonly intrathecal and epidural local anesthetics are combined with opioids to prolong analgesia; however, these do not prolong the motor block time and can attenuate the response to surgical stress, in addition to being associated with side effects such as respiratory depression, urinary retention, pruritus, hemodynamic instability, nausea, and emesis. Objective: to investigate the effect of adding 75 mg of magnesium sulfate on the duration of sensory block and duration of motor block Patients and Methods: In a prospective randomized study, ASA I or II, 128 (64 control and 64 experimental groups) pregnant women (at term) who were candidate for cesarean section with spinal anesthesia, were recruited in this study. They were collected from "Baghdad Teaching Hospital" at the period from (September 2020 to Fab 2021). Each experimental woman received 12.5 mg (2.5 ml) of hyperbaric bupivacaine (0.5%) and 0.5 ml (75 mg) magnesium sulfate (15%), while controls received same does of hyperbaric bupivacaine and 0.5 ml of distilled water. Results: The duration of analgesia (sensory blockade) and theduration of motor blockade manifested a statistically significant increase inexperimental as compared to their controls (control = 116.41 ± 12.47, experimental = 159.75 ± 10.56, control = 180.76 ± 11.83, experimental = 240 ±9.46 minutes respectively). Conclusion:Significantly increased the duration of postoperative analgesia and prolonged the sensory and motor blockade withoutsignificant apparent maternal or fetal side effects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]