Search

Objective: To compare rates of preterm birth before 35 weeks based on cervical length measurement at 16-20 weeks in women with twin gestations who received 17-α hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17OHPC) or placebo.Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a randomised, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of twin gestations exposed to 17OHPC or placebo. Baseline transvaginal ultrasound evaluation of cervical length was performed prior to treatment assignment at 16-20 weeks. Cervical length measurements were categorised according to the 10th, 25th, 50th and 75th percentiles in the women studied. The effect of 17OHPC administration in women with a short (25th percentile) and long (75th percentile) cervix was evaluated.Results: Of 661 twin gestations studied, 221 (33.4%) women enrolled at 11 centers underwent cervical length measurement. The 10th, 25th, 50th, 75th percentiles for cervical length at 16-20 weeks were 32, 36, 40 and 44 mm, respectively. The risk of preterm birth <35 weeks was increased in women with a cervical length <25th percentile (55.8 vs. 36.9%, p=0.02). However, a cervical length >75th percentile at this gestational age interval was not protective for preterm birth (36.5 vs. 42.9%, p=0.42). Administration of 17OHPC did not reduce preterm birth before 35 weeks among those with either a short or a long cervix (64.3 vs. 45.8%, p=0.18 and 38.1 vs. 35.5%, p=0.85, respectively).Conclusion: Women with twin gestations and a cervical length below the 25th percentile at 16-20 weeks had higher rates of preterm birth. In this subgroup of women, 17 OHPC did not prevent preterm birth before 35 weeks gestation. A cervical length above the 75th percentile at 16-20 weeks did not significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth in this high risk population. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective:  The Endocrine Society recommends a postpartum fasting blood glucose (FBG) be performed for patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) prior to hospital discharge to screen for ongoing hyperglycemia. There are limited data, however, on whether an FBG can screen for glucose intolerance and if it correlates with the gold standard 4- to 12-week 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Our objective was to evaluate if FBG correlates with the gold standard 2-hour OGTT., Study Design:  This retrospective cohort study of patients with GDM who delivered >20 weeks' gestation at two urban centers from January 2017 to December 2020 included those who completed both a postpartum FBG prior to discharge and a 2-hour 75-g OGTT within 1 year of delivery. Abnormal 2-hour OGTT was defined as fasting value ≥100 mg/dL and/or 2-hour value ≥140 mg/dL. We evaluated test characteristics (e.g., sensitivity, specificity) of postpartum FBG cut-offs to predict an abnormal 2-hour OGTT result., Results:  A total of 235 patients met inclusion criteria, of which 63% were diet-controlled and 37% required medical management. FBG ranged from 64 to 134 mg/dL, with 6/235 (2.6%) with values ≥126 mg/dL. A total of 39/235 (16.6%) of patients had an abnormal 2-hour OGTT. Overall, area under the curve for FBG predicting abnormal 2-hour OGTT was 0.65. Traditionally considered high cut-offs (≥126 mg/dL) for predicting persistent impaired glucose intolerance demonstrated poor positive predictive value (PPV; <20%). In contrast, low cut-offs demonstrated excellent NPV (>90%). A postpartum FBG of 88 mg/dL was determined to be the optimal cut-off for FBG with NPV = 92.4% (Youden index = 0.34). In this dataset, if FBG ≥ 88 mg/dL was used to determine if 2-hour OGTT was required, almost half of GDM patients could avoid further glucose tolerance testing., Conclusion:  While previously thought of as best utilized for its PPV, the FBG may be best used for its NPV. In our study, clinical application of an FBG < 88 mg/dL was highly correlative with a normal 2-hour OGTT., Key Points: · Screening for postpartum glucose intolerance is essential for gestational diabetes.. · A promising initiative includes offering screening tests while in the hospital, including an FBG.. · Application of a postpartum FBG < 88 mg/dL is highly correlative with a normal 2-hour OGTT.., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Objective:  Rates of completion of the gold standard 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) for impaired glucose intolerance postpartum in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) are consistently less than 50%. Screening tests performed prior to hospital discharge, including fasting blood glucose (FBG) to detect persistent hyperglycemia, have been investigated. We lack evidence, however, on whether implementation of routine postpartum FBG impacts the likelihood of obtaining the routine 2-hour OGTT. We sought to retrospectively compare the rates of completion of the 2-hour OGTT pre- and postimplementation of a routine FBG screen., Study Design:  We performed a single-center retrospective cohort study comparing the completion of the 2-hour OGTT pre- and postimplementation of a routine FBG screen. Our primary outcome was the completion of the postpartum OGTT. Bivariate analyses assessed associations between demographic and preinduction clinical characteristics by pre- and post-implementation groups, as well as OGTT completion. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for possible confounders. A sensitivity analysis was performed to account for the overlap with the coronavirus disease 2019pandemic., Results:  In total, 468 patients met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. In our post-intervention group, 64% of patients completed a postpartum FBG. For our primary outcome, completion of the 2-hour OGTT significantly decreased in our postintervention group from 37.1 to 25.9% ( p  = 0.009), adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 0.62, confidence interval (CI): 0.41-0.92. This difference was no longer statistically significant when excluding patients during the pandemic, from 40.3 to 33.1% ( p  = 0.228), aOR: 0.76, CI: 0.455-1.27., Conclusion:  Implementation of a routine FBG was associated with a negative impact on patients completing a 2-hour OGTT. The difference was no longer significant when excluding patients who would have obtained the OGTT during the pandemic, which may have been due to the smaller cohort. Future work should investigate patient perceptions of the FBG and its impact on their decision-making around the OGTT., Key Points: · Screening for postpartum glucose intolerance is imperative for gestational diabetics.. · A fasting blood glucose is recommended as a postpartum screen for hyperglycemia in GDM patients.. · Implementation of an FBG was associated with a decrease in completion of the gold standard OGTT.., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Background: Diabetes complicates ≤7% of pregnancies in the United States. Although medical nutrition therapy is the mainstay of diabetes treatment, many barriers exist to the successful implementation of dietary modifications. Home-delivered medically tailored meals (MTMs) are promising to overcome such barriers., Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of home-delivered MTM in pregnant patients with diabetes., Methods: We performed a prospective cohort study of home-delivered MTM for pregnant patients with diabetes using a mixed-methods approach. Participants <35 wk of gestation at the time of enrollment received weekly home delivery of diabetes-specific meals. Qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted to gain insight into participants' experience. Diabetes self-efficacy was assessed pre- and postintervention using the Diabetes Self-Efficacy Scale and 2-Item Diabetes Distress Screening Scale. The difference in mean scores was compared using t-tests with P value of <0.05 considered significant. Feasibility and acceptability were evaluated through participants' attitude toward MTM in qualitative interviews and indirectly evaluated through diabetes self-efficacy surveys., Results: Twenty pregnant people with diabetes who received home-delivered MTM during pregnancy were interviewed postpartum. Participants found this program convenient for various reasons, including reduced time for grocery shopping and preparing meals. Participants were satisfied with meals, citing a positive impact on diabetes management, accessibility of healthy foods, reduced stress with meal planning, and greater perceived control of blood glucose. Most participants shared meals with their families or received specific meals for their dependents, which was positively received. Reduced financial and mental stress was also widely reported. Diabetes self-efficacy was significantly improved postintervention with MTM., Conclusion: Home-delivered MTM is feasible and acceptable in pregnant patients with diabetes and may improve diabetes self-efficacy. Individual experiences offered insight into various barriers overcome by using this service. Home-delivered MTM may help ensure an accessible, healthy diet for pregnant patients with diabetes., (Copyright © 2023 American Society for Nutrition. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: There is mounting evidence that neighborhoods contribute to perinatal health inequity. We aimed (1) to determine whether neighborhood deprivation (a composite marker of area-level poverty, education, and housing) is associated with early pregnancy impaired glucose intolerance (IGT) and pre-pregnancy obesity and (2) to quantify the extent to which neighborhood deprivation may explain racial disparities in IGT and obesity., Study Design: This was a retrospective cohort study of non-diabetic patients with singleton births ≥ 20 weeks' gestation from 1 January 2017-31 December 2019 in two Philadelphia hospitals. The primary outcome was IGT (HbA1c 5.7-6.4%) at <20 weeks' gestation. Addresses were geocoded and census tract neighborhood deprivation index (range 0-1, higher indicating more deprivation) was calculated. Mixed-effects logistic regression and causal mediation models adjusted for covariates were used., Results: Of the 10,642 patients who met the inclusion criteria, 49% self-identified as Black, 49% were Medicaid insured, 32% were obese, and 11% had IGT. There were large racial disparities in IGT (16% vs. 3%) and obesity (45% vs. 16%) among Black vs. White patients, respectively ( p < 0.0001). Mean (SD) neighborhood deprivation was higher among Black (0.55 (0.10)) compared with White patients (0.36 (0.11)) ( p < 0.0001). Neighborhood deprivation was associated with IGT and obesity in models adjusted for age, insurance, parity, and race (aOR 1.15, 95%CI: 1.07, 1.24 and aOR 1.39, 95%CI: 1.28, 1.52, respectively). Mediation analysis revealed that 6.7% (95%CI: 1.6%, 11.7%) of the Black-White disparity in IGT might be explained by neighborhood deprivation and 13.3% (95%CI: 10.7%, 16.7%) by obesity. Mediation analysis also suggested that 17.4% (95%CI: 12.0%, 22.4%) of the Black-White disparity in obesity may be explained by neighborhood deprivation., Conclusion: Neighborhood deprivation may contribute to early pregnancy IGT and obesity-surrogate markers of periconceptional metabolic health in which there are large racial disparities. Investing in neighborhoods where Black patients live may improve perinatal health equity.

Objective: We aimed to determine the risk of cesarean among women with obesity undergoing labor induction within a prospective trial that utilized a standardized labor protocol., Study Design: This was a secondary analysis of a randomized trial of induction methods. Term (≥37 weeks) women with intact membranes undergoing induction with an unfavorable cervix (Bishop's score ≤6 and dilation ≤2 cm) were included. The trial utilized a labor protocol that standardized induction and active labor management, with recommendations for interventions at particular time points. Only women with a recorded body mass index (BMI) at prenatal care start were included in this analysis. The primary outcome was cesarean delivery compared between obese (≥30 kg/m 2 ) and nonobese (<30 kg/m 2 ) women. Indication for cesarean was also evaluated., Results: A total of 465 women were included: 207 (44.5%) obese and 258 (55.5%) nonobese. Women with obesity had a higher risk of cesarean compared with women without obesity (33.3 vs. 23.3%, p  = 0.02), even when adjusting for parity, weight change over pregnancy, and indication for induction (adjusted relative risk [aRR] = 1.79, 95% confidence interval [CI]: [1.34-2.39]). Compared with women without obesity, women with obesity had a higher risk of failed induction (47.8 vs. 26.7%, p  = 0.01) without a difference in arrest of active phase ( p  = 0.39), arrest of descent ( p  = 0.95) or fetal indication ( p  = 0.32), despite adherence to a standardized labor protocol., Conclusion: Compared with women without obesity, women with obesity undergoing an induction are at increased risk of cesarean, in particular a failed induction, even within the context of standardized induction management. As standardized practices limit provider variation in labor management, this study may support physiologic differences in labor processes secondary to obesity., Key Points: · Even with a standardized induction protocol, women with obesity are at higher risk of cesarean.. · In particular, women with obesity are at increased risk of cesarean for failed induction.. · These findings support a possible biologic relationship between obesity and failed induction.., Competing Interests: None declared., (Thieme. All rights reserved.)

Food insecurity is a major social determinant of health affecting more than 10% of Americans. Social determinants of health are increasingly recognized as a driving force of health inequities. It is well established that food insecurity leads to adverse health outcomes outside of pregnancy, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and mental health problems. However, limited data exist about the impact of food insecurity during pregnancy on maternal and neonatal outcomes. Food insecurity and other social determinants of health are rarely addressed as part of routine obstetrical care. The COVID-19 pandemic has only exacerbated the crisis of food insecurity across the country, disproportionally affecting women and racial and ethnic minorities. Women's health providers should implement universal screening for maternal food insecurity and offer resources to women struggling to feed themselves and their families. Reducing maternal health inequities in the United States involves recognizing and addressing food insecurity, along with other social determinants of health, and advocating for public policies that support and protect all women's right to healthy food during pregnancy., (Copyright © 2021 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To assess the risk factors associated with cesarean delivery in women with class III obesity (body mass index [BMI, calculated as weight in kilograms divided by height in meters squared] 40 or higher) who are undergoing induction of labor., Methods: This was a retrospective cohort of obese women with a BMI of 40 or higher and singleton pregnancy of 34 weeks of gestation or longer who underwent induction of labor at two large teaching institutions from January 2013 to December 2015. The primary outcome was cesarean delivery. Secondary outcomes included maternal and neonatal composite morbidity. We then assessed the applicability of using a previously developed calculator to predict the risk of cesarean delivery. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used as a measure of the ability of the calculator to discriminate between women who underwent cesarean compared with vaginal delivery., Results: There were 485 women with class III obesity who underwent induction during the study period. Of the 428 women who met inclusion criteria, 81.8% had a BMI of 40-50, 14.5% had a BMI of 50-60, and 3.7% had a BMI higher than 60. The overall cesarean delivery rate was 49.1% (46% with BMI 40-50, 63% with BMI 50-60, and 69% with BMI higher than 60, P=.012). Of the 428 women studied, 77.6% were black and 55% were nulliparous. Nulliparity, height, initial cervical dilation, and modified Bishop score were associated with a higher rate of cesarean delivery in multivariable models. Maternal and neonatal composite morbidity was higher in obese women who underwent cesarean delivery, compared with those who delivered vaginally. The performance of a previously developed induction calculator applied to this cohort had an area under the ROC curve of 75% (95% CI 0.70-0.79)., Conclusions: In women with class III obesity who underwent labor induction, the cesarean delivery rate approaches 50%. Nulliparity, height, and unfavorable cervical examination were the most significant risk factors for cesarean delivery. This information can be used to augment counseling for the obese patient who is undergoing induction.

Objective: This article evaluates the differences in adverse maternal outcomes related to severe preeclampsia in obese versus nonobese women., Study Design: Retrospective cohort study and planned secondary analysis of women with severe preeclampsia comparing a composite adverse maternal outcome related to preeclampsia among obese (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m 2 ) and nonobese (BMI < 30 kg/m 2 ) women. The composite outcome was defined as ≥ 1 of the following prior to discharge: renal failure, liver abnormality, thrombocytopenia, blood transfusion, pulmonary edema, disseminated intravascular coagulation, stroke, or eclampsia. Multivariable logistic regression was used to control for confounders., Results: Of the 152 women included, 37.5% were obese and 62.5% were nonobese. The prevalence of the primary outcome was 15.8% with obese women less likely to have the composite outcome compared with nonobese women (7% vs. 21.1%, p  = 0.02). This remained after adjusting for confounders including maternal age, race, and chronic hypertension (adjusted odds ratio, 0.33 [0.12-0.89], p  = 0.03). Obese women were, however, more likely to require intravenous antihypertensive medication peripartum compared with nonobese women (49.1% vs. 28.4%, p  = 0.01)., Conclusion: Obese women with severe preeclampsia may have a different phenotype of severe preeclampsia that is more associated with severe hypertension rather than end-organ damage., Competing Interests: None., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Purpose: Cervical length (CL) measurement is now accepted as a screening strategy for identifying women at risk for preterm birth (PTB). However, patient acceptability may limit its implementation. Our objective was to identify characteristics associated with women who decline this screening., Materials and Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study of women offered UCL screening from January 2012 to June 2012. Women with a singleton gestation 18 0/7-23 6/7 weeks at the time of anatomy scan were included. Trained sonographers were instructed to perform UCL screening on all eligible patients using an "opt-out" approach. Chi square statistics and Wilcoxon rank sum tests were used to compare categorical and continuous data, where appropriate. Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratio for factors associated with declining UCL screening Results: 1348 women were offered CL screening; 131 (9.7%) declined. Overall, multiparous women were more than twice as likely to decline UCL screening compared to primiparous women [OR 2.4 (1.6-3.8)]. Patient acceptance of screening was significantly dependent on the sonographer (p < .05)., Conclusion: Multiparous women are less likely to accept this strategy of PTB prevention. A standardized counseling approach may improve patient acceptance and mitigate variability in acceptance rates observed amongst sonographers.

Background: To evaluate whether maternal serum adiponectin and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) levels at the time of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) diagnosis are associated with persistent glucose intolerance in GDM women at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum., Methods: This is a secondary analysis of prospective randomized trial of GDM women enrolled in a behaviour education programme. Women with a GDM diagnosis ≥20 weeks were included. At the time of randomization, serum adiponectin and hsCRP levels were drawn. After delivery, women underwent a 2-hour 75-g oral glucose tolerance test at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum. Persistent impaired glucose tolerance (P-IGT) was defined as impaired fasting glucose, impaired glucose tolerance, or a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes mellitus. Regression models and receiver operator curves were used to evaluate the association between midpregnancy adiponectin and hsCRP and persistent impaired glucose tolerance., Results: Of 100 women in the trial, 63 completed postpartum glucose testing. Twenty (31.7%) of the women had P-IGT. Median hsCRP levels were higher at randomization (22-34 wk) in women with persistent impaired glucose tolerance compared with women with normal glucose tolerance (5.1 vs 3.8, P = .01). After adjustment for the original study intervention, the association between hsCRP and P-IGT persisted (odds ratio, 3.45; 95% confidence interval, 1.34-8.92; P = .01) and had good diagnostic performance with an area under the curve of 0.73. There was no difference in median adiponectin levels between groups (44.8 vs 52.0, P = .57) or in odds of P-IGT (odds ratio, 0.81; 95% confidence interval, 0.33-1.99; P = .65), and area under the curve = 0.54., Conclusions: Midpregnancy high sensitivity CRP is a potential predictor of persistent impaired glucose tolerance diagnosed on the postpartum 2-hour 75-g oral glucose tolerance test in GDM women in the immediate postpartum period. Further investigation is needed in a larger population of women prior to using specific cut-offs for diagnostic purposes. High-sensitivity C-reactive protein levels in the immediate postpartum period should be seen as an adjunct, not a replacement, for the standard long-term screening of women with a history of a GDM pregnancy., (Copyright © 2017 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.)

Maternal obesity, excessive gestational weight gain, and preexisting diabetes are known risk factors for increased maternal and neonatal morbidity. These conditions are more prevalent in certain racial and ethnic minorities. Identification and acknowledgement of racial and ethnic inequalities related to maternal metabolic disease is crucial for clinicians to provide the most comprehensive care in pregnancy. Research and clinical efforts should focus on implementation of healthy lifestyle interventions preconceptually and risk reduction efforts in disease complications during pregnancy. In addition, obstetrical providers can provide the framework and ongoing support for sustainable lifestyle modifications, thereby, improving a woman's long-term metabolic health., (Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To evaluate the association between maternal obesity and mood disorders including depression, anxiety, stress, and pregnancy-specific stress during pregnancy., Study Design: This was a planned secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study investigating factors associated with preterm delivery. The cohort included women who initiated prenatal care before 20 weeks with a singleton pregnancy. Maternal mental health was assessed using four standard psychosocial behavioral measures to screen for depression, pregnancy-specific stress, anxiety, and stress. Screen positive scores for each tool were established based on previously published "high" scores., Results: Of the 1010 women included in the cohort, 355 (35.1%) were obese. There was no significant difference in the number of obese women with stress (64.2% versus 68.4%, p = 0.18), pregnancy-specific stress (26.2% versus 22.1%, p = 0.15), or anxiety (38.6% versus 41.2%, p = 0.42); however, a greater number of obese women did report symptoms consistent with major depression when compared to women with BMIs <30 (30.4% versus 21.2%, p < 0.01)., Conclusion: Obese women had higher rates of depression in early pregnancy compared to nonobese women. As many of the health behavior interventions for obese women during pregnancy have proven ineffective, incorporating depression screening and treatment into prenatal care may improve perinatal outcomes.

Objective To evaluate whether women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) enrolled in an intensive behavior education program (IBEP) demonstrate lower mean fasting glucose levels on the 2-hour 75 g oral glucose tolerance test (2-hour OGTT) at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum compared with women who undergo routine GDM management. Study Design A prospective randomized controlled trial of women diagnosed with GDM was conducted. Exclusion criteria were GDM diagnosis ≥ 33 weeks or < 20 weeks. Women were randomly assigned to one of two treatment arms: (1) routine GDM management or (2) an IBEP. Women underwent a 2-hour OGTT at 6 to 12 weeks postpartum. Fisher exact test, t-test, and Wilcoxon rank sum test were used as appropriate. Results Of the 101 women randomized, 49 were assigned to IBEP and 52 received routine GDM management. There was no difference in mean fasting and 2-hour glucose levels on the postpartum 2-hour OGTT between the IBEP and routine management group (88.5 ± 22.9 mg/dL vs. 85.2 ± 13.3 mg/dL, p = 0.49 and 109.8 ± 38.5 mg/dL vs. 109.4 ± 40.8 mg/dL, p = 0.97, respectively). Conclusion GDM women enrolled in a healthy lifestyle intervention program did not demonstrate lower glucose values on the postpartum 2-hour OGTT., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Background Previous studies have shown an association between total excessive gestational weight gain and hypertension in pregnancy. However, this may be a reflection of excessive water retention associated with the pathophysiology of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Early excessive weight gain, prior to the third trimester, results in greater maternal fat deposition and inflammation, which has also been associated with the development of hypertension. By focusing on early excessive weight gain, the association between maternal weight gain and the future development of hypertension can be examined. Objective To evaluate the association between early excessive maternal weight gain and the development of hypertension during pregnancy. Study Design This was a secondary analysis of a longitudinal cohort study of 1,441 women without chronic hypertension who were enrolled in a prospective study evaluating maternal angiogenic factors and the prediction of preeclampsia. Initial body mass index (BMI) was calculated by weight and height at the first study visit. Early excessive maternal weight gain was defined as weight gain by 28 weeks that exceeded the Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines and was calculated utilizing the maximum amount of weight gain per week recommended by the IOM based on the patient's starting BMI (normal: 0.45 kg; overweight: 0.32 kg; obese: 0.27 kg). Hypertension was defined as a sustained systolic blood pressure of ≥140 mm Hg or a diastolic blood pressure of ≥90 mm Hg. Logistic regression was used to determine the association between early excessive weight gain, initial BMI, and the development of hypertension, including gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, during pregnancy. Results Of 1,441 women, 767 (53.2%) had weight gain that exceeded the IOM guidelines in the first 28 weeks and 154 (10.8%) developed hypertension during pregnancy. Women whose weight gain exceeded the IOM guidelines were more likely to develop hypertension even after adjusting for relevant confounders (12.5 vs. 8.6%; p = 0.02; adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.70; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.18-2.44; p < 0.01). Obese women had a 2.4-fold increased risk of developing hypertension, even after controlling for excessive weight gain (adjusted OR = 2.44; 95% CI: 1.66-3.59; p < 0.01) Conclusions Early excessive maternal weight gain and initial BMI are independently associated with the diagnosis of a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. Women should be counseled regarding the benefits of achieving a normal BMI prior to pregnancy and appropriate weight gain during pregnancy, as well as the potential harms of excessive weight gain related to perinatal outcomes., (Thieme Medical Publishers 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.)

Objective: To create a prediction score incorporating both maternal clinical characteristics and sonographic measurements in an effort to more accurately determine the risk of a large for gestational age (LGA) infant in the obese gravida., Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of obese women with singleton pregnancies who had a fetal ultrasound performed between 32 and 36 weeks from 1/2008 to 12/2011. LGA was defined as birth weight (BW) ≥ 90%. Clinical characteristics associated with fetal overgrowth were included in a multivariable logistic model and stepwise backwards regression was performed to identify which risk factors generated the most parsimonious predictive model. Adjusted odds ratios of covariates in the final model were used to estimate weights for each risk factor that were summed to generate a predictive score., Results: Six-hundred and sixty-nine obese women were included. The incidence of LGA infants was 11.8%. Ultrasound estimation of fetal weight alone accurately predicted LGA in 17.7 % of cases (AUC = 0.58). The most parsimonious model to accurately predict LGA at birth included 3rd trimester ultrasound EFW >90th percentile, interval from scan to delivery, and maternal history of diabetes mellitus (DM) (AUC = 0.74). A positive prediction score test result was associated with 92% specificity and 89% negative predictive value., Conclusions: A clinical prediction rule was developed and internally validated to predict the risk of an LGA infant among obese women. The ability to calculate a prediction score at the time of delivery is appealing to the clinician in order to accurately counsel women regarding the risks surrounding the delivery.

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate a woman's risk perception for future cardiovascular disease (CVD) after being diagnosed with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy., Methods: A prospective cohort of women diagnosed with a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy (HDP) was studied. Each woman completed two surveys, one prior to hospital discharge and one 2 weeks later, designed to assess knowledge of and risk perception for future CVD based on their recent diagnosis of a HDP. Rates of postpartum depression were also assessed., Results: Of the 146 subjects included, 28% were diagnosed with preeclampsia with severe features, 52.1% with preeclampsia with mild features, and 19.9% had chronic hypertension. Women with severe features and those delivering preterm were more likely to report a perception of increased risk of both recurrent HDP in a future pregnancy (p = 0.004 and 0.005, respectively) and hypertension later in life (p = 0.01 and 0.03, respectively). Women delivering preterm were more likely to report an accurate perception of increased risk of myocardial infarction and stroke compared to those delivering at term (p = 0.006 and 0.002, respectively)., Conclusions: Disease severity and preterm delivery were associated with a higher likelihood of the perception of an increased risk for both recurrent HDP and hypertension in the future. Only preterm delivery was associated with a higher risk perception for stroke and myocardial infarction. Interventions targeted at improved health awareness in women diagnosed with HDP are warranted.

Maternal obesity in pregnancy is associated with increased maternal and fetal risks. Pregnancy management should include counseling, screening, and optimization of maternal health, increased fetal surveillance, and preparation for parturition. A multidisciplinary approach should be implemented including collaboration from obstetricians, nutritionists, anesthesiologists, social workers, and neonatologists to optimize perinatal outcomes. Pregnancy is an ideal window of opportunity to influence both the patient's long-term health and the health of the offspring., (Published by Elsevier Inc.)

Objective: Exposure to maternal obesity in utero predisposes offspring to obesity and metabolic disease. This study investigated whether maternal obesity is associated with alterations in expression of fetal microRNA (miRNA)., Study Design: A cohort study of women with body mass index (BMI) ≥35 kg/m(2) (n = 16) versus those with normal BMI 20 to 24.9 (n = 20) was performed. All participants had normal glucose tolerance (1-hour glucose challenge test <130) and normally grown neonates (2700-3500 g). Umbilical cord samples were collected immediately after delivery. Expression of miRNA was assessed using Affymetrix GeneChip miRNA 3.0 Arrays. Differential miRNA expression was determined using Student t tests with Benjamini-Hocherg correction., Results: For 1733 human mature miRNAs, the expression levels were not statistically different in umbilical cord blood samples from pregnancies of obese women compared to controls., Conclusion: Expression of fetal miRNA is not altered in umbilical cord blood in response to in utero exposure to obesity. Alternate mechanisms underlying the fetal effects of maternal obesity should be explored., (© The Author(s) 2014.)

Objective: To evaluate the association between excessive weight gain and pregnancy-related hypertension (PRH) among obese women (body mass index (BMI) ≥30 kg/m(2))., Methods: We performed a case control study among women with (n = 440) and without (n = 600) PRH from 2005 to 2007. Height and weight were recorded at initial and final prenatal visits. 695 women had BMI recorded at ≤18 weeks of gestation, of which 257 (36.9%) were obese. Obese women were divided into three categories based on 2009 Institute of Medicine (IOM) guidelines: (1) below recommended amount (under weight gain - UWG); (2) more than recommended (excessive weight gain - EWG) or (3) within recommended amount (normal weight gain - NWG). PRH was defined as gestational hypertension, mild or severe preeclampsia. Patients with and without PRH were prospectively identified. The association between weight gain category and development of PRH was analyzed., Results: We noticed a 1.5-fold higher odds of having PRH with an initial BMI ≥30 kg/m(2) compared to BMI <30 kg/m(2) (OR 1.64, 95% CI 1.2-2.2, p = 0.002). Among obese women, we noted a 2-fold higher odds of having PRH with EWG compared to NWG (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.2-3.9, p = 0.012). The increased odds persisted after adjusting for race, chronic hypertension and diabetes, and length of gestation (AOR 2.61, 95% CI 1.4-4.9, p = 0.003). Among obese women with PRH, those with EWG had a 76% decreased odds of having severe disease compared to NWG (OR = 0.242 [0.07-0.79], p = 0.019)., Conclusion: We have demonstrated that EWG among obese patients increases overall risk of PRH.

Rapid-acting insulin analogues are the preferred choice for short-acting insulin due to their superior pharmacologic profiles, leading to greater flexibility and convenience of dosing. This has lead to greater patient satisfaction and improved quality of life. Clinical experience with rapid-acting insulin analogues in pregnancy is increasing. Currently, there is limited data available on the use of long-acting insulin analogues in pregnancy. The focus of this review is to discuss the role of insulin analogue therapy in the treatment of the woman with gestational diabetes.

Background: Reversed diastolic flow in the middle cerebral artery has been described as a terminal sign in the growth-restricted fetus. The implication of this in a normally grown fetus is unknown., Case: Middle cerebral artery Doppler velocimetry was performed at 28 weeks of gestation in the setting of decreased fetal movement and a category 2 fetal heart tracing. The middle cerebral artery pulsatility index was elevated, and follow-up studies revealed reversed flow. The fetus had appropriate growth, with mild polyhydramnios and no signs of cardiomegaly, effusion, or hydrops. Fetal death was diagnosed 4 days later in the setting of extensive intracranial hemorrhage., Conclusion: Regardless of fetal growth, persistent reversed middle cerebral artery Doppler with an elevated pulsatility index may be a feature of impending death.

Objective: To determine the influence of maternal body mass index (BMI) and gestational age on the accuracy of image acquisition, first trimester fetal gender determination, and correct assignment., Methods: Women presenting for first trimester aneuploidy risk assessment at 11(0) to 13(6) weeks were prospectively enrolled. A mid-sagittal view of the fetus including the genital tubercle was obtained. The angle of the genital tubercle was measured with male assigned for angle >30°, female <10°, and indeterminate if 10-30°. This was compared with gender at birth. The influence of maternal and pregnancy characteristics on both image acquisition and correct gender assignment were evaluated., Results: A total of 256 women with 260 fetuses undergoing first trimester risk assessment were enrolled. The genital tubercle was identified in 247/260 (95%) of cases. Image acquisition was negatively influenced by increasing maternal BMI and early gestational age (34.8 ± 7.7 vs. 27.0 ± 6.1 kg/m(2), p < 0.0001 and 12.3 ± 0.5 vs. 12.6 ± 0.5 weeks, p = 0.02). Gender was assigned in 93.1% and correctly matched in 85.8% of fetuses. Positive predictive value (PPV) for male and female fetuses were 88.9% and 79.8%, respectively. Correct gender assignment was more likely in male compared with female fetuses (91.4 vs. 80.5%, p = 0.02)., Conclusion: Increasing maternal BMI negatively influences image acquisition during the first trimester for gender determination, but does not decrease the accuracy of correct gender assignment if the image is obtained.

Objective: Seventeen-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) reduces recurrent preterm birth (PTB). We hypothesized that single nucleotide polymorphisms in the human progesterone receptor (PGR) affect response to 17-OHPC in the prevention of recurrent PTB., Study Design: We conducted secondary analysis of a study of 17-OHPC vs placebo for recurrent PTB prevention. Twenty PGR gene single nucleotide polymorphisms were studied. Multivariable logistic regression assessed for an interaction between PGR genotype and treatment status in modulating the risk of recurrent PTB., Results: A total of 380 women were included; 253 (66.6%) received 17-OHPC and 127 (33.4%) received placebo. In all, 61.1% of women were African American. Multivariable logistic regression demonstrated significant treatment-genotype interactions (either a beneficial or harmful treatment response) for African Americans delivering<37 weeks' gestation for rs471767 and rs578029, and for Hispanics/Caucasians delivering<37 weeks' gestation for rs500760 and <32 weeks' gestation for rs578029, rs503362, and rs666553., Conclusion: The clinical efficacy and safety of 17-OHPC for recurrent PTB prevention may be altered by PGR gene polymorphisms., (Copyright © 2011 Mosby, Inc. All rights reserved.)

Objective: To estimate the association between fasting and 2-hour postprandial blood glucose levels and neonatal outcomes in women treated for mild gestational diabetes., Methods: In this secondary analysis of a multicenter randomized treatment trial of mild gestational diabetes, the median fasting and 2-hour postprandial glucose levels were analyzed in 2-week intervals and change over time (slope) was calculated for women with gestational diabetes (abnormal oral glucose tolerance test) and a fasting glucose less than 95 mg/dL who received nutritional management with self blood glucose monitoring and insulin as needed. Regression analyses were performed to estimate the relationship between median fasting and postprandial glucose and neonatal fat mass, cord blood C-peptide, birth weight, large-for-gestational-age neonates, macrosomia (greater than 4,000 g), and neonatal hypoglycemia., Results: Among 460 women with gestational diabetes, median fasting (P<.001), postprandial breakfast (P<.001), and postprandial lunch (P<.001) glucose values declined over the treatment period, whereas postprandial dinner values remained stable (P=.83). Higher median fasting glucose during the first 2 weeks of treatment was significantly associated with increased odds ratios for neonatal fat mass (1.35; 95% CI 1.09-1.66; P=.006) and elevated C-peptide (1.29; CI 1.09-1.52; P=.003). Higher median fasting glucose during the last 2 weeks before delivery was associated with higher rates of large-for-gestational-age neonates (1.27; CI 1.05-1.53; P=.01), macrosomia (1.32; CI 1.04-1.65; P = .02), and elevated C-peptide (1.19; CI 1.03-1.38; P=.02)., Conclusion: In women treated for mild gestational diabetes, higher fasting glucose during initiation of diet therapy was associated with increased neonatal fat mass and elevated C-peptide and during the last 2 weeks before delivery with macrosomia, large-for-gestational age, and elevated C-peptide., Level of Evidence: II.

Since their introduction, insulin analogues are the preferred choice for short-acting insulin due to their superior pharmacologic profiles, leading to greater flexibility and convenience of dosing and, thus, greater patient satisfaction and improved quality of life. Over the past few years, clinical experience with insulin analogues in pregnancy has increased. The most studied, insulin lispro, has been shown to be a safe and clinically effective option in the treatment of the diabetic gravida. Studies of the other insulin analogues are limited, but promising. Further research is warranted to evaluate safety and efficacy of these analogues.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to examine whether women who were treated with 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17-OHPC) to prevent recurrent preterm birth experienced a change in cervical shortening over time, compared with women who were not treated., Study Design: We conducted a retrospective exposure cohort study of women who were enrolled in a prematurity prevention clinic from 1999-2008 with a singleton pregnancy with > or =1 previous spontaneous preterm births (<37 weeks of gestation) who underwent > or =2 cervical length measurements by endovaginal ultrasound., Results: Of 200 women, 105 women received treatment with 17-OHPC; 95 women did not. Women who were treated with 17-OHPC were more likely to have experienced a previous preterm birth (26.0 vs 27.8 weeks; P = .01) than those who were not treated with 17-OHPC. There was no difference in the average weekly change in cervical length among women treated with 17-OHPC, compared with those who were not, after adjustment for covariates (0.79 mm/week; 95% confidence interval, -1.18 to 2.76)., Conclusion: There was no difference in the average weekly change in cervical length measurements over time in women who underwent 17-OHPC treatment, compared with those who were not treated.

Objective: To describe perinatal outcomes of women with pregestational diabetes treated with short-acting, regular insulin and the short-acting insulin analogue, lispro., Study Design: This was a prospective observational study of women with pregestational diabetes maintained on short-acting insulin regimens over a 3-year period. Clinical characteristics, aspects of diabetic therapy, and perinatal/neonatal outcomes were collected., Results: Of 107 women, 49 were maintained on regular insulin and 58 utilized the insulin analogue, lispro. Frequency of type 1 diabetes, maternal age, overweight/obese pregravid body mass index (> or =25 kg/m2), preexisting hypertension, and presence of vascular disease were similar between groups. Women treated with lispro had a longer duration of diabetes (11.4 vs. 8.3 years, p = 0.04). Glycemic control was improved in women managed with lispro compared to regular insulin (HgbA1c 5.9 vs. 6.7, p = 0.009). Total insulin requirements were lower in the lispro group in the first (0.58 vs. 0.79 units/kg, p = 0.02), second (0.75 vs. 1.10 units/kg, p = 0.002), and third (0.98 vs. 1.25 units/kg, p = 0.03) trimesters of pregnancy. Mean infant birth weight was greater in the lispro group, whereas the rate of large for gestational age infants and ponderal indices were similar between groups. Malformation rate, gestational age at delivery, neonatal intensive care unit admission, neonatal length of stay, rates of respiratory distress syndrome, and hypoglycemia were similar., Conclusions: Women treated with lispro demonstrated improved glycemic control and lower total insulin requirements during pregnancy compared to those receiving regular insulin. Perinatal outcomes were similar between women treated with both types of insulin.

Objective: To evaluate the myometrial thickness (MT) of multiple uterine sites during all three trimesters of pregnancy in an attempt to identify anticipated myometrial thickness in each trimester for these sites., Methods: In this prospective cross sectional study, MT was evaluated by ultrasound in women with viable singleton pregnancies. Women with suspected abruption, accreta, previa, fibroids, uterine and fetal anomalies, abnormal fluid volume, labor were excluded. MT was measured at the fundus, anterior wall (AW), posterior wall (PW), right and left side walls, lower uterine segment (LUS) and under the placenta. The cohort was divided to determine differences in MT at each site in each trimester (TRI). Differences in MT between sites were assessed., Results: One hundred and seventy five women underwent ultrasound by a single observer. There were 25 1st, 100 2nd and 50 3rd TRI scans at mean (SD) gestations of 11.0 (1.9), 21.5 (3.6) and 34.1 (3.0) weeks, respectively. Women were 37% African American, 72% government insured, 39.4% nulliparous. A total of 13% of women had a prior cesarean. MT of the fundus was less than AW, PW, right and left side walls (p < 0.05 each). For all sites, MT was less in 2nd compared with 1st TRI (p < 0.0001 each). This was most evident with fundal and LUS MT (35% less each). There was no difference in MT between 2nd and 3rd TRI. Fundal, AW, left side wall, subplacental and LUS MT were greater in parous women (p < 0.05 each). With anterior placentation, AW MT was less than when the placenta was implanted elsewhere (6.6 vs 7.4 mm, p = 0.008). This was not found with fundal or posterior placentas. The LUS MT was not less with prior cesarean (6.1 vs 6.0 mm, p = 0.84)., Conclusion: Myometrial thickness of all uterine sites is less in 2nd and 3rd trimesters compared with the 1st trimester. Fundal MT is less than other upper segment MT in the 2nd and 3rd trimesters. LUS MT is not less with prior cesarean.

Objective: This study was undertaken to compare success rates of vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) delivery, and uterine rupture as well as maternal/perinatal outcomes between women with preterm and term pregnancies undergoing trial of labor (TOL), and to compare maternal and neonatal morbidities in those women with preterm pregnancies undergoing a TOL versus repeat cesarean delivery without labor (RCD)., Study Design: Prospective 4-year observational study of women with a singleton gestation and a prior cesarean delivery at 19 academic centers. Clinical characteristics, maternal complications and VBAC delivery success for those with a preterm (24(0)-36(6) weeks) TOL, preterm RCD and term TOL (> or = 37 weeks) were analyzed., Results: Among 3119 preterm pregnancies with prior cesarean delivery, 2338 (75%) underwent a TOL. 15,331 women undergoing TOL at term were also analyzed as a control group. TOL success rates for preterm and term pregnancies were similar (72.8% vs 73.3%, P = .64). Rates of uterine rupture (0.34% vs 0.74%, P = .03) and dehiscence (0.26% vs 0.67%, P = .02) were lower in preterm compared with term TOL. Thromboembolic disease, coagulopathy and transfusion were more common in women undergoing a preterm TOL than those at term. Among women undergoing a preterm TOL, rates of uterine dehiscence, coagulopathy, transfusion, and endometritis were similar to those having a preterm RCD. After controlling for gestational age at delivery and race, neonatal outcomes such as Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission, intraventricular hemorrhage, sepsis, and ventilatory support were similar in both groups except for a higher rate of respiratory distress syndrome in those delivered after a TOL., Conclusion: The likelihood of VBAC success after TOL in preterm pregnancies is comparable to term gestations, with a lower risk of uterine rupture. Perinatal outcomes are similar with preterm TOL and RCD. TOL should be considered as an option for women undergoing preterm delivery with a history of prior cesarean delivery.

Objective: This study was undertaken to determine rates of recurrent preterm birth according to number of prior preterm births, 1 versus 2 or more and cervical length by endovaginal ultrasound at 22(0) to 24(6) weeks, less than 25 mm versus more than 25 mm., Study Design: We retrospectively analyzed data from charts of women with prior spontaneous preterm birth seen in a Prematurity Prevention Clinic from 1998 through 2004. Women with a history of 1 or more spontaneous preterm births (18(0)-36(6) weeks) were included. Women with multiple gestations, uterine anomalies, and prior cervical surgery were excluded. Transvaginal sonography was used to evaluate each woman's cervical length at 22(0) to 24(6) weeks. Cerclage, bed rest, tocolysis, and steroids were used when clinically appropriate. Primary outcome was gestational age at delivery less than 32 and less than 35 weeks. Data were analyzed according to number of prior preterm births (1 vs > or = 2) and sonographic cervical length at 22(0) to 24(6) weeks (<25 mm vs > or = 25 mm)., Results: A total of 188 eligible women were evaluated. Median gestational age of earliest preterm birth was 26.3 weeks. Of the total 188, 118 (62.8%) women had 1 prior and 70 (37.2%) had 2 or more preterm births. Thirty-eight (20.2%) of the women had a cervical length less than 25 mm and 150 (79.8%) had a cervical length 25 mm or greater. A higher percentage of women with a cervical length less than 25 mm and 2 or more preterm births delivered less than 32 weeks compared with women with 1 prior preterm birth, although this did not reach statistical significance (21.5% vs 12.5%, P = .47). Rates of delivery less than 35 weeks in women with a cervical length less than 25 mm were similar in those with a history of 1 and 2 or more preterm births. Women who had 2 or more prior preterm births were analyzed separately to identify if a cervical length greater than 30 mm or greater than 35 mm could be reassuring for decreasing the risk of recurrent preterm birth., Conclusion: Rates of preterm birth less than 32 and less than 35 weeks were similar in women whose cervical length was less than 25 mm at 22(0) to 24(6) weeks, regardless of number of prior preterm births. Women with 2 prior preterm births and a cervix greater than 35 mm were at low risk for subsequent preterm birth less than 35 weeks.

Objective: To determine the influence of pregravid obesity and diabetes on cesarean delivery (CD) risk., Study Design: Women with singleton pregnancies of 23 weeks or more estimated gestational age who were undergoing a trial of labor January 1997 through June 2001 were categorized by pregravid body mass index (underweight [<19.8 kg/m 2 ], normal [19.8-25 kg/m 2 ], overweight [25.1-30 kg/m2], obese [>30 kg/m2]). Diabetes (DM) was divided into categories of gestational, treated with diet modification (A1GDM) or insulin (A2GDM), and pregestational (PDM). Prior CDs were excluded. CD rates for each group were compared in univariate analyses stratified by estimated gestational age (term, preterm, total). Other variables examined included DM, macrosomia (birth weight 4500 g or more), induction, and parity. Multiple regression included significant variables to predict the influence of diabetes and obesity on CD risk., Results: Records for 12,303 deliveries were evaluated (obese: 2828 [22.9%]; overweight: 2605 [21.2%]; A1GDM: 270 [2.2%]; A2GDM: 93 [0.8%]; PDM: 126 [1%]). Obese and overweight subjects had a higher risk for CD, compared with normal subjects (13.8% and 10.4% versus 7.7%, P < .0001 for each). Other CD risk factors were macrosomia (25% versus 9.4%), nulliparity (16.5% versus 4.7%), induction (17.4% versus 8.3%), diabetes (A1GDM: 16.7% versus 9.4%; A2GDM: 24.7% versus 9.5%; PDM: 34.9% versus 9.3%) and black race (10.7% versus 8.8%) ( P < .0001 for each). In multiple regression models including term deliveries, obesity and PDM were independent CD risk factors ([adjusted OR overweight: 1.5, P < .0001; adjusted OR PDM: 2.9, P = .01]; [adjusted OR obese: 2.4, P < .0001, PDM: 2.9, P = .0002])., Conclusion: Pregravid obesity and diabetes independently increase the risk for CD. Given the disparate prevalence of obesity and diabetes in the United States, body habitus has a significantly larger impact on CD risk.

Objective: This study was undertaken to determine the impact of maternal obesity on success of a trial of labor (vaginal birth after cesarean section [VBAC]) after a single low transverse cesarean delivery., Study Design: Individual charts of women with low transverse cesarean delivery in their first viable pregnancy who underwent a VBAC in their second viable pregnancy at our urban tertiary care institution were reviewed. Maternal body mass index (BMI) was classified as underweight (<19.8 kg/m2), normal (19.8-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (25-29.9 kg/m2), or obese (> or =30 kg/m2). Clinical characteristics and labor outcomes were assessed. Factors potentially affecting VBAC success were analyzed by univariate analysis. Logistic regressions were performed to determine the impact of maternal pregravid BMI on VBAC success after controlling for confounding factors., Results: Of 510 women attempting a trial of labor, 337 (66%) were successful and 173 (34%) failed VBAC. Decreased VBAC success was seen in obese (54.6%) but not overweight (65.5%) women compared with women of normal BMI (70.5%), P = .003 and .36, respectively. Underweight women had more VBAC success than women of normal BMI (84.7% vs 70.5%, P = .04). Controlling for other factors, the association between increasing pregravid BMI and BMI > or =30 kg/m 2 with decreased VBAC success persisted, P = .03 and .006, respectively. Normal BMI women who became overweight before the second pregnancy had decreased VBAC success compared with those whose BMI remained normal (56.6% vs 74.2%, P = .006). However, overweight women who decreased their BMI to normal before the second pregnancy did not significantly improve VBAC success (64.0% vs 58.4%, P = .67)., Conclusion: Increasing pregravid BMI and weight gain between pregnancies reduce VBAC success after a single low transverse cesarean delivery.

Background: The therapy for native mitral valve endocarditis is in evolution. Antibiotics have significantly improved survival rates, but patients with complications of endocarditis may require surgical treatment., Methods: Between January 1985 and December 1995, 146 patients underwent surgical therapy (repair or replacement) for native mitral valve endocarditis. All patients had documented bacterial endocarditis. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to determine predictors of hospital death, long-term event-free survival, and probability of repair. Patients were evaluated in three groups: all patients, patients with acute endocarditis, and patients with chronic endocarditis., Results: There were ten hospital deaths (6.8%). Patients undergoing repair had a lower hospital mortality rate (p = 0.008) then those having replacement. Event-free survival was improved after mitral valve repair in the overall group (p = 0.02) and in the group with healed (chronic) endocarditis (p = 0.05). Although the acute endocarditis group demonstrated an improved event-free survival rate after mitral valve repair versus replacement (74% versus 20% at 6 years), this did not reach statistical significance., Conclusions: We conclude that mitral valve repair is preferable to mitral valve replacement when possible, in patients with complications of endocarditis, as repair results in a lower hospital mortality and an improved long-term survival.