Search

International audience; Objective To describe and compare the characteristics of women with placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) and their pregnancy outcomes according to the presence of placenta praevia and a prior caesarean section.Design Prospective population-based study.Setting All 176 maternity hospitals of eight French regions.Population Two hundred and forty-nine women with PAS, from a source population of 520 114 deliveries.Methods Women with PAS were classified into two risk-profile groups, with or without the high-risk combination of placenta praevia (or an anterior low-lying placenta) and at least one prior caesarean. These two groups were described and compared.Main outcome measures Population-based incidence of PAS, characteristics of women, pregnancies, deliveries and pregnancy outcomes.Results The PAS population-based incidence was 4.8/10 000 (95% CI 4.2-5.4/10 000). After exclusion of women lost to follow up from the analysis, the group with placenta praevia and a prior caesarean included 115 (48%) women and the group without this combination included 127 (52%). In the group with both factors, PAS was more often suspected antenatally (77% versus 17%; P < 0.001) and more often percreta (38% versus 5%; P < 0.001). This group also had more hysterectomies (53% versus 21%, P < 0.001) and higher rates of blood product transfusions, maternal complications, preterm births and neonatal intensive care unit admissions. Sensitivity analysis showed similar results after exclusion of women who delivered vaginally.Conclusion More than half the cases of PAS occurred in women without the combination of placenta praevia and a prior caesarean delivery, and these women had better maternal and neonatal outcomes. We cannot completely rule out that some of the women who delivered vaginally had placental retention rather than PAS; however, we found similar results among women who delivered by caesarean.Tweetable abstract Half the women with PAS do not have both placenta praevia and a prior caesarean delivery, and they have better maternal outcomes.

Resume Objectifs La cesarienne est associee a une augmentation de la morbidite maternelle par rapport a un accouchement par voie basse, surtout si elle a lieu en cours de travail. Il existe peu de donnees sur la cesarienne realisee a dilatation complete. Methodes Il s’agissait d’une etude retrospective realisee en Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de type 3 sur une periode de dix ans, incluant les patientes primipares a terme ayant eu une cesarienne realisee a dilatation complete, comparees a un groupe temoin de patientes dont la cesarienne avait ete realisee en premiere partie de travail. Nous avons recueilli differentes donnees maternelles per- et postoperatoires et neonatales. Resultats Au total, 824 patientes ont ete incluses dont 412 dans chaque groupe. En cas de cesarienne a dilatation complete, l’extraction fœtale necessitait plus de manœuvres (RR = 3,05 ; IC 95 % : 2,1 ; 4,39 ; p p Conclusion Une cesarienne a dilatation complete comporte un sur-risque peroperatoire et necessite donc une grande prudence. Neanmoins, il ne semble pas exister d’augmentation importante des complications maternelles postoperatoires et neonatales.

To describe induction of labor practices in France and to identify factors associated with the use of different methods.The data came from the French prospective population-based cohort MEDIP (MEthodes de Déclenchement et Issues Périnatales), including consecutively during one month in 2015 all women with induction of labor and a live fetus in 7 perinatal networks. The characteristics of women, maternity units, gestational age, Bishop's score, decision mode, indication and methods of labor induction were described. Factors associated with the use of different methods were sought in univariate analyzes.The rate of induction of labor during the study was 21% and 3042 women were included (95.9% participation rate). The two main indications were prolonged pregnancy (28.7%) and premature rupture of the membranes (25.4%). More than one-third of women received intravenous oxytocin in first method, 57.3% prostaglandins, 4.5% balloon catheter and 1.4% another method. Among the prostaglandins, the vaginal device of dinoprostone was the most used (71.6%) then the gel (20.7%) and the vaginal misoprostol (6.7%). Women with a balloon were more often of higher body mass index and multiparous with scarred uterus. The balloon and misoprostol were mainly used in university public hospitals.The evolution of induction of labor methods, due to new data from the literature and the development of new drugs or devices, invites to regularly repeat population-based studies on induction of labor.

To determine management of women with preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM).Bibliographic search from the Medline and Cochrane Library databases and review of international clinical practice guidelines.In France, PPROM rate is 2 to 3% before 37 weeks of gestation (level of evidence [LE] 2) and less than 1% before 34 weeks of gestation (LE2). Prematurity and intra-uterine infection are the two major complications of PPROM (LE2). Compared to other causes of prematurity, PPROM is not associated with an increased risk of neonatal mortality and morbidity, except in case of intra-uterine infection, which is associated with an augmentation of early-onset neonatal sepsis (LE2) and of necrotizing enterocolitis (LE2). PPROM diagnosis is mainly clinical (professional consensus). In doubtful cases, detection of IGFBP-1 or PAMG-1 is recommended (professional consensus). Hospitalization of women with PPROM is recommended (professional consensus). There is no sufficient evidence to recommend or not recommend tocolysis (grade C). If a tocolysis should be prescribed, it should not last more than 48hours (grade C). Antenatal corticosteroids before 34 weeks of gestation (grade A) and magnesium sulfate before 32 weeks of gestation (grade A) are recommended. Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended (grade A) because it is associated with a reduction of neonatal mortality and morbidity (LE1). Amoxicillin, 3rd generation cephalosporins, and erythromycin in monotherapy or the association erythromycin-amoxicillin can be used (professional consensus), for 7 days (grade C). However, in case of negative vaginal culture, early cessation of antibiotic prophylaxis might be acceptable (professional consensus). Co-amoxiclav, aminosides, glycopetides, first and second generation cephalosporins, clindamycin, and metronidazole are not recommended for antibiotic prophylaxis (professional consensus). Outpatient management of women with clinically stable PPROM after 48hours of hospitalization is a possible (professional consensus). During monitoring, it is recommended to identify the clinical and biological elements suggesting intra-uterine infection (professional consensus). However, it not possible to make recommendation regarding the frequency of this monitoring. In case of isolated elevated C-reactive protein, leukocytosis, or positive vaginal culture in an asymptomatic patient, it is not recommended to systematically prescribe antibiotics (professional consensus). In case of intra-uterine infection, it is recommended to immediately administer an antibiotic therapy associating beta-lactamine and aminoside (grade B), intravenously (grade B), and to deliver the baby (grade A). Cesarean delivery should be performed according to the usual obstetrical indications (professional consensus). Expectative management is recommended before 37 weeks of gestation in case of uncomplicated PPROM (grade A), even in case of positive vaginal culture for B Streptococcus, provided that an antibiotic prophylaxis has been prescribed (professional consensus). Oxytocin and prostaglandins are two possible options to induce labor in case of PPROM (professional consensus).Expectative management is recommended before 37 weeks of gestation in case of uncomplicated PPROM (grade A).

To determine the diagnosis criteria and management of intra-uterine inflammation or infection (Triple I, III).PubMed and Cochrane Central databases search.III is defined as an infection of the fetal membranes, and/or other components like the decidua, fetus, amniotic fluid or placenta. This word should be preferred to the word chorioamnionitis that is less precise (Professional consensus). III clinical signs exhibit poor limited sensibility and specificity (EL3). The diagnosis of III is retained in case of maternal fever (defined by a body temperature≥38°C) with no alternative cause identified and at least 2 signs among the following: fetal tachycardia160 bpm for 10min or longer, uterine pain of labor, purulent fluid from the cervical canal (Professional consensus). Maternal hyperleukocytosis20 giga/L in the absence of corticosteroids treatment or increased plasmatic C-reactive protein also argue for III, despite their limited sensibility and specificity (EL3). III requires prompt delivery (Grade A). III is not by itself an indication for cesarean delivery (Professional consensus). Antibiotic treatment should cover Streptococcus agalactiae and Escherichia coli. Antibiotics should be started immediately and maintained all over delivery, to reduce neonatal and maternal morbidity (Grade B). Treatment should rely on a combination of betalactamin and aminoglycoside (Grade B). After vaginal delivery, one single dose of antibiotic is required. Antibiotic duration should be longer in case of bacteremia. Longer duration could be considered in case of persistent fever or of cesarean delivery (Professional consensus).

Caesarean section is associated with increased maternal morbidity compared to a vaginal delivery, especially if it occurs during labour. Little data on caesarean section performed at full dilatation is available.This was a retrospective study done in University Hospital of type 3 over a period of ten years, including future primiparous patients who had a caesarean section performed at full dilatation, compared to a control group of patients whose caesarean section was conducted in first part of the labour. We collected different maternal data per- and postoperative and neonatal.In total, 824 patients were enrolled including 412 in each group. For caesarean section at full dilatation, foetal extraction required more manoeuvres (RR=3.05; 95% CI: 2.1; 4.39; P0.001); we noted more extension of hysterotomy (RR=1.79; 95% CI: 1.30; 2.46; P0.001). Postoperative and neonatal maternal morbidity was not different, except more frequent neonatal trauma for caesarean section at full dilatation.A caesarean section at full dilatation has an excess intraoperative risk and requires great caution. Nevertheless, no significant increase of postoperative and neonatal complications can be proved.

To define initial steps of obstetrical treatment of post-partum hemorrhage (PPH) after vaginal delivery.We searched the Medline and the Cochrane Library and checked the international guidelines: HAS, RCOG, SOGC, ACOG and WHO.In case of PPH, the use of a collecting bag is recommended (professional consensus). All the concerned professional (midwife, obstetrician, anesthesiology team) must be warned immediately (professional consensus). If placenta is retained, manual removal needs to be performed and after placental delivery, manual uterine exploration is recommended (professional consensus). At the same time, a dose of 5 or 10 IU of oxytocin must be administrated IV over at least 1minute or directly by an intramuscular injection followed by an infusion of 5 to 10 UI/h during 2hours (professional consensus). In some situations at risk of cervical and high vaginal laceration, the low genital tract needs to be carefully examined (professional consensus). Appropriate management of PPH has to be known by the concerned professional (professional consensus). Retrospective study of each case of PPH should be done (professional consensus).The PPH initial treatment involves a team work that, most of times, leads to stop the bleeding in least than 30minutes (professional consensus).

Study of epidemiology of pregnancy loss.A systematic review of the literature was performed using Pubmed and the Cochrane library databases and the guidelines from main international societies.The occurrence of first trimester miscarriage is 12% of pregnancies and 25% of women. Miscarriage risk factors are ages of woman and man, body mass index greater than or equal to 25kg/m(2), excessive coffee drinking, smoking and alcohol consumption, exposure to magnetic fields and ionizing radiation, history of abortion, some fertility disorders and impaired ovarian reserve. Late miscarriage (LM) complicates less than 1% of pregnancies. Identified risk factors are maternal age, low level of education, living alone, history of previous miscarriage, of premature delivery and of previous termination of pregnancy, any uterine malformation, trachelectomy, existing bacterial vaginosis, amniocentesis, a shortened cervix and a dilated cervical os with prolapsed membranes. Fetal death in utero has a prevalence of 2% in the world and 5/1000 in France. Its main risk factors are detailed in the chapter.

The objective of this review was to assess benefits and harms of different management options for induction of labor and obtaining of uterine vacuity in case of fetal death beyond of 14 weeks of gestation. In second-trimester, the data are numerous but low methodological quality. In terms of efficiency (induction-expulsion time and uterine evacuation within 24 hours rate) and tolerance in the absence of antecedent of caesarean section, the best protocol for induction of labor in the second-trimester of pregnancy appears to be mifepristone 200mg orally followed 24-48 hours later by vaginal administration of misoprostol 200 to 400 μg every 4 to 6 hours. In third-trimester, there is very little data. The circumstances are similar to induction of labor with living fetus. A term or near term, oxytocin and dinoprostone have a marketing authorization in this indication but misoprostol may be an alternative as the Bishop score and dose of induction of labor with living fetus. In case of previous caesarean section, the risk of uterine rupture is increased in case of a medical induction of labor with prostaglandins. The lowest effective doses should be used (100 to 200 μg every 4 to 6 hours). Prior cervical preparation by the administration of mifepristone and possibly the use of laminar seems essential in this situation.

The objective of this review was to assess early and late benefits and harms of different management options for first-trimester miscarriage. Surgical uterine evacuation remains the most effective and the quickest method of treatment. Depending on the clinical situation, medical treatment using misoprostol (missed miscarriage) or expectative attitude (incomplete miscarriage) does not increase the risk of complications, neither haemorrhagic nor infectious. However, these alternatives generally require longer outpatient follow-up, which leads to more prolonged bleeding and not planned surgical procedures.

State of knowledge about misoprostol's use out of its marketing authorization during the first trimester of pregnancy, in early miscarriage or to induce abortion or medical termination of pregnancy.French and English publications were searched using PubMed, Cochrane Library and international learned societies recommendations.Cervical ripening prior to surgical uterine evacuation during the first trimester of pregnancy facilitates cervical dilatation and reduces operative time and uterine retention risk. Misoprostol, mifepristone and osmotic cervical dilators are equally efficient. Concerning first trimester miscarriage, surgical uterine evacuation remains the most effective and the quickest method of treatment (EL 1). Depending on the clinical situation, medical treatment using misoprostol (missed miscarriage) or expectative attitude (incomplete miscarriage) does not increase the risk of complications, neither haemorrhagic nor infectious (EL 1). However, these alternatives generally require longer outpatient follow-up, which leads to more consultations, prolonged bleeding and not planned surgical procedures (EL 1). Concerning missed miscarriage, a vaginal dose of 800 μg of misoprostol, possibly repeated 24 to 48 hours later, seems to offer the best efficiency/tolerance ratio (EL 2). Concerning early abortion, medical method is a safe and efficient alternative to surgery (EL 2). Success rates are inversely proportional to gestational age (EL 2). According to the modalities of its marketing authorization, 400 μg of misoprostol can only be given by oral route, for less than 7 weeks of amenorrhea (WA) pregnancies and after 36 to 48 hours following 600 mg of mifepristone (EL 1). However, 200mg of mifepristone is as efficient as 600 mg (EL 1). Beyond 7WA, misoprostol buccal dissolution (sublingual or prejugal) or vaginal administration are more efficient and better tolerated than oral ingestion (EL 1). Between 7 and 9WA, the best protocol in terms of efficiency and tolerance is the association of 200mg of mifepristone followed 24 to 48 hours later by 800 μg of vaginal, sublingual or buccal misoprostol (EL 1). An additional dose of 400 μg can be given 3 hours later if necessary (EL 3). In case of buccal administration, the dose of 400 μg seems to offer the same efficiency with a better tolerance but further evaluation is needed (EL 2). Between 9 and 12WA, medical treatment is less efficient than surgery and its tolerance is lower (EL 2). However, a protocol of 200mg of mifepristone followed 36 to 48 hours later by 800 μg of vaginal or sublingual misoprostol, plus an additional 400 μg dose every 3-4 hours (until 4-5 doses maximum) seems safe and efficient (EL 5).Misoprostol use during the first trimester of pregnancy is a safe and efficient alternative to surgery as long as detailed protocols adjusted to each clinical situation are respected.

Uterine artery pseudoaneurysm is a rare complication of cesarean section. It can lead to severe postpartum hemorrhage. We report three cases of pseudoaneurysm diagnosed late after cesarean delivery, one followed by hemorrhagic shock. Ultrasound may point to the diagnosis, but arteriography of uterine arteries is decisive for the diagnosis. Selective artery embolization is recommended for treatment. Main advantages are complete occlusion of the pseudoaneurysm and fertility preservation.

To assess maternal outcomes during trial of labor (TOL) and elective repeat caesarean delivery (ERCD) in women with a previous caesarean delivery.French and English publications were searched using PubMed and Cochrane Library.Maternal mortality remains a very rare event regardless of the planned mode of delivery (EL2). It is potentially reduced after a TOL but the presence of biases in many studies does not allow any conclusion (EL3). Maternal morbidity is mainly due to the failure of the TOL and to the risk of unplanned caesarean delivery during labor (EL2). The risk of complete uterine rupture significantly increases with TOL versus ERCD but it remains low at about 0.2 to 0.8% for women with one scar on the uterus (EL2). The occurrence of a post-surgical wound, mostly from the bladder, is rare (less than 0.5%) regardless of the planned mode of delivery (EL2). Facing the risk of hemorrhage requiring hysterectomy or blood transfusion, data are heterogeneous because of the nature of the populations studied. These risks do not seem to vary with the mode of delivery (EL3). The risk of post-partum venous thrombo-embolic complications and infections (endometritis and maternal fever) appears to be similar in both TOL and ERCD (EL3). The risk of infection is primarily related to the additional presence of obesity (EL2). While maternal morbidity progressively increases with the number of iterative caesarean sections, maternal morbidity in TOL after a previous caesarean delivery decreases with the number of successful TOL (EL2).In patients with a previous caesarean delivery, the risks of maternal complications are rare and similar between TOL and ERCD. There is an increased risk of complete uterine rupture in case of TOL. Nevertheless TOL has a favorable benefit/risk balance in most cases and its success reduces the risk of short and long-term maternal complications (EL3).

To evaluate the prevention of fetomaternal rhesus-D allo-immunization between 2008 and 2010. This evaluation was a part of the continuous medical evaluation (CME) that is compulsory in French hospitals. It was carried out using the tools recommended by the Haute Autorité de santé. We followed the national guidelines for the prevention of fetomaternal rhesus-D allo-immunization as outlined in 2005 by the national French college of Obstetrics and Gynecology.We audited 3926 consultations in the first four months of 2008. Based on the results of the audit, actions were implemented to improve care. In 2009, we audited 4021 consultations to look for improvement, and another 3932 consultations in 2010.In 2008, 14% of the patients had an overall optimal prevention. After actions were taken, 44% of patients in 2009 and 58% of patients in 2010 demonstrated optimal prevention (P0,05). Especially, the prevention of fetomaternal allo-immunization has been explained for 43% of the patients in 2008 and to 90% of them in 2010. And immunoprophylaxia has been prescribed to 70% of the patients in 2008 and to 93% of them in 2010.This CME has resulted in a statistically significant improvement of the prevention of allo-immunization.

Women who had severe preeclampsia are at high risk of gestational vascular complications (preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, fetal death, small for gestational age, placenta abruptio) in subsequent pregnancies. The aim of this study was to describe outcomes of subsequent pregnancy after severe preeclampsia with delivery before 34 weeks of gestation during the first pregnancy.One hundred and thirty-four primiparous women delivered before 34 weeks of gestation resulting in severe preeclampsia between January 2002 and December 2009. The data of the index pregnancy were identified from the medical record of our maternity, those of the subsequent pregnancy from paper or computerized medical records of the hospitals where deliveries took place. Our study ended on December 31 2011 for a decrease of at least 2 years after the index pregnancy.Of the 75 subsequent pregnancies, 59 have been studied. Twenty patients (34%) had gestational vascular complications, in type of gestational hypertension alone (10%), preeclampsia (65%), isolated small for gestational age (20%) or fetal death (5%). Thirty-nine patients (66%) showed no recurrence of gestational vascular complications but only 33 patients (56%) had a pregnancy of course totally physiological. The only risk factor for recurrent gestational vascular complications in subsequent pregnancy was a long time interval between two pregnancies, with an increased risk in case of delay beyond 26 months.Women with a history of severe preeclampsia with delivery before 34 weeks of gestation during first pregnancy are at increased risk for gestational vascular complications during the next pregnancy. A close obstetrical monitoring is recommended during a subsequent pregnancy.

To describe the incidence and the etiologies of acute pulmonary edema (APE) and the diagnostic procedure used during pregnancy and immediate post-partum.We analyzed records from a search of codes of heart failure and APE as well as from the term "pulmonary edema" in computerized obstetric records from 2002 to 2010 in a university center of level 3. We identified maternal characteristics, the term of appearance and route of delivery, the time between symptoms and diagnosis, additional tests performed, and data from echocardiography.Fifteen patients had an APE during pregnancy or in the immediate post-partum period during the study period (0.05%). The mean age was 28.6 years and the mean term of appearance was 31.2±3.1 weeks of amenorrhea. The diagnosis was made in 11 cases (73.3%) before delivery and in four during post-partum. The main etiology was preeclampsia (46.6%) followed by heart disease (26.7%), then tocolysis and overfilling (13.3%). In 55% of cases, we found a diagnostic wander characterized by carrying out further unnecessary tests. The echocardiography has led to a change in management in 27.3% of cases.The APE is a rare event during pregnancy and the post-partum period and its main etiology is preeclampsia. Some other etiologies are avoidable like the use of beta-agonists by intravenous route. The diagnosis is sometimes difficult, but the realization of a chest X-ray, a simple and inexpensive test, is enough to confirm it.

To assess the effectiveness and the safety of prevention and treatment of iron deficiency anemia during pregnancy.French and English publications were searched using PubMed and Cochrane library.Early screening of iron deficiency by systematic examination and blood analysis seemed essential. Maternal and perinatal complications were correlated to the severity and to the mode of appearance of anemia. Systematic intakes of iron supplements seemed not to be recommended. In case of anemia during pregnancy, iron supplementation was not associated with a significant reduction in substantive maternal and neonatal outcomes. Oral iron supplementation increased blood parameters but exposed to digestive side effects. Women who received parenteral supplementation were more likely to have better hematological response but also severe potential side effects during pregnancy and in post-partum. The maternal tolerance of anemia motivated the choice between parenteral supplementation and blood transfusion.Large and methodologically strong trials are necessary to evaluate the effects of iron supplementation on maternal health and pregnancy outcomes.

The delivery of the foetus and placenta remains the curative treatment for PE, usually allowing a spontaneous, quick and complete regression of all clinical signs and biological anomalies within the first days. However, the risk of developing complications associated with the condition persists mainly during the first 48 to 72 hours and up to one week post partum. Post partum haemodynamic upset and the administered therapeutic measures are predisposing factors to these complications. This critical period therefore requires intensive monitoring and the delivery of appropriate treatments.

Operative vaginal delivery significantly increases the risk of anal sphincter injury compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery, particularly when an instrumental application at high station, persistent occipital posterior presentation and/or macrosomia are associated. Risks of vaginal tears, postpartum haemorrhage and urinary retention appear to be increased compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery. There is no evidence that one type of forceps is less safe than another. Different vacuum extractors (soft, rigid and single-use instruments) have similar maternal outcomes. A risk of anal incontinence in the first year postpartum is associated with operative vaginal delivery, particularly forceps. Operative vaginal delivery also appears to increase the risk of occult anal sphincter injury regardless of the instrument used, but does not appear to be associated with the risk of postpartum urinary incontinence and genital prolapse compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery. It does, however, increase the risks of perineal pain, postpartum dyspareunia and sexual disorders compared with spontaneous vaginal delivery, particularly in cases of perineal tears.

A first trimester miscarriage is most often painfully experienced by the patients. The practitioner should be able to offer appropriate, timely, efficient and safe medical management, allowing a shorter convalescence without effect on subsequent fertility. Each step of the process of the miscarriage results in clinical and ultrasonographic characteristics, and requires a specific therapeutic strategy. Vaginal ultrasound allows confirmation of early pregnancy failure (missed miscarriage) diagnosis and to estimate the complete or incomplete removal of trophoblastic material. However, the endometrial thickness does not appear to be predictive for the risk of persistent bleeding or secondary surgery. Surgical evacuation of the product of conception remains the most effective and the quickest method of treatment. Depending on the clinical situation, medical treatment with misoprostol (missed miscarriage) or expectative attitude (incomplete miscarriage) do not increase the risk of complications, particularly the infectious one. However, these alternatives generally require more prolonged outpatient follow-up leading to more frequent consultations and surgical emergencies.

Defined by the association of hemolysis, hepatic dysfunction and thrombocytopenia, the Hemolysis, Elevated Liver enzyme, Low Platelets (HELLP) syndrome can complicate preeclampsia and worsen maternal and fetal prognosis. It can be diagnosed in the immediate postpartum (30%) or in the absence of preeclampsia (10-20%). Clinical diagnosis can be difficult because there is no specific symptom. Abdominal pain or vomiting during the third trimester must lead to think about this diagnosis. Biological criteria are well defined: hemolysis by the presence of schistocytes, increased serum total bilirubin12 mg/L or LDH600 IU/L, hepatic dysfunction by increased transaminases and thrombocytopenia by a platelet count100,000/microL. The evolution of those parameters is a major prognostic factor. With the HELLP syndrome, maternal morbidity is dramatically increased compared to isolated preeclampsia with complications such as eclampsia, placental abruptio, disseminated intravascular coagulation, pulmonary edema, acute renal insufficiency, subcapsular liver hematoma. The management of a HELLP syndrome requests level 3 hospital with intensive care units for neonate and mother. The treatment of this syndrome requires termination of the pregnancy as soon a possible, either by cesarean section or by vaginal delivery if cervical conditions are optimal (without any maternal or fetal complications). Before 32 weeks, a more expectative attitude could be acceptable with the prematurity permitting corticotherapy for fetal pulmonary maturation. This corticotherapy can improve temporary biological parameters but there are no proven benefits to consider improvement for long term maternal or fetal prognosis. During the postpartum, evolution is usually spontaneously favorable. Recurrences are not frequent.

The classic pregnancy term is between 37 and 42 weeks of gestation and the perinatal mortality and morbidity rates increasing progressively during this period, it is difficult to decide of an "ideal" term above which a medical intervention (induction of labour) brings more benefits than risks linked to the natural evolution of pregnancy. There is a good scientific evidence for the induction of labour from 41 weeks of gestation, defined like "postdating" term, when the cervical conditions are favourable (Bishop score5) and systematically from 42 weeks (significative reduction of perinatal mortality rate and not increased rate of cesarean delivery compared with expectant management). An intensive antenatal surveillance involving a nonstress test and an evaluation of amniotic fluid volume is an efficient alternative when the conditions of delivery are unfavourable between 41 and 42 weeks of gestation or when the woman does not wish induction.

Vein of Galen aneurysm is a rare vascular congenital malformation. We report an antenatal diagnosis with duplex Doppler at 26 weeks gestation. Magnetic resonance imaging was used before and after delivery in order to determine neurological prognosis. The neonatal prognosis is poor if fetal cardiac insufficiency or cerebral lesions are present antenatally. Premature delivery does not improve the neonatal outcome. When the aneurysm is not life threatening, embolization of the malformation is at best delayed five months after birth.

To evaluate indications, mode of administration and safety of magnesium sulphate in severe preeclampsia.We conducted a retrospective descriptive study from January 2000 to December 2002, including patients with severe preeclampsia which was defined as elevated blood pressureor=140 and/or 90 mmHg with proteinuriaor=0.3g per day, associated with one or more of the following: elevated blood pressureor=170 and/or 110 mmHg, proteinuria3g per day, functional symptoms such as headache, hyperreflexia, oliguria500 ml per day, thrombocytopenia, creatinine level100 micromol/l, HELLP syndrome. We studied a group of 57 women treated by magnesium sulphate (intravenous bolus of 4.5g during 20 minutes followed by a perfusion of 1.5g/h) associated or not with an antihypertensive treatment.Treatment by magnesium sulphate was started antenatally in 53 women or during immediate postpartum in 4, associated (n=25) or not (n=32) with an antihypertensive treatment. Hyperreflexia was the main indication to start magnesium sulphate treatment (75%). About half (47%) of the cases occurred before 33 weeks of gestation No eclampsia occurred in this group. There was one overdosage which regressed when perfusion was stopped. One patient presented minor side effects attributed to magnesium sulphate.Providing a rigorous protocol, indications of magnesium sulfate therapy in severe preeclampsia are well defined. It seems that this treatment could be easily used without severe complications and major side effects.

To determine whether morbidly obese women have an increased risk of pregnancy complications and adverse perinatal outcome.In a retrospective study, 2472 women with morbid obesity, defined as a body mass index (BMI) more than 40 were compared with normal weight women (BMI 20-25). Fisher and Student tests were used for statistical analysis.In the group of morbidly obese mothers (BMI greater than 40) as compared with the normal weight mothers, there was an increased risk of the following outcomes: gravidic hypertension (7.7 vs 0.5%; p0.05). preeclampsia (11.5 vs 2%; p0.05), gestational diabetes (15.4 vs 1.8%; p0.05), cesarean delivery (50 vs 15.4%; p0.05), and macrosomia (42.3 vs 10.3%; p0.05). However, we noted a lower rate of prematurity in the obese group (0 vs 11%). Even when morbidly obese women with preexisting diabetes and chronic hypertension were excluded from the analysis, significant differences in the perinatal outcomes still persisted.Morbid obesity appears to be an independent risk factor for perinatal and gestational complications.

Accurate management of primary postpartum hemorrhage requires perfect knowledge of a recent protocol accessible at all times. Staff members and equipment need to be adjusted to the emergency situation. The first step is to establish a rapid diagnosis. This could be done with collecting bags, placed immediately after the birth. Once the diagnosis has been established, it has to be communicated to the whole team including obstetricians, midwives and anesthetists. A search for the cause of the hemorrhage is premordial. Abdominal uterine palpation confirms the diagnosis of uterine atony, the most frequent cause of postpartum hemorrhage. Two management schemes are possible depending on whether or not there is retention of the placenta. When the placenta is retained, manual removal has to be performed to empty the uterine cavity and to rule out uterine rupture. After placental delivery, manual control of the uterine cavity is always required. Uterine massage has to be performed after the intrauterine manoeuvres and must not be stopped too quickly. Rapidly other origins can be excluded: episiotomy or low genital tract lacerations requiring rapid repair, coagulation disorders requiring specialised care, or hematomas. During the same time, uterotonic drugs have to be used. Oxytocin (intravenous injection of 5 to 10 IU) is generally employed. Prostaglandins cannot be proposed as publications reporting their efficiency are not validated. Meanwhile, the anesthetists will have begun the first measures of resuscitation.

Medical treatment using misoprostol has been recommended as an alternative to surgical evacuation for spontaneous miscarriages in the first trimester, in order to avoid anesthesia, a surgical operation and hospitalization. Our aim was to assess the efficacy and the safety of vaginal misoprostol in out-patient management of early miscarriages.We conducted a prospective cohort study including patients with a spontaneous miscarriage of less than 14 weeks gestation. Exclusion criteria were hemorrhagic miscarriages, gestational sac larger than 40 mm and/or cranio-caudal length of the embryo of more than 30 mm. Our protocol used 4 intravaginal tablets (800 microg) of misoprostol on Day 1, out-patient follow-up, clinical and ultrasound reassessment on Day 2. If the intra-uterine antero-posterior diameter on ultrasound examination was greater than 15 mm (or the gestational sac persisted), a second dose of misoprostol was administered or surgical evacuation was performed (failure of medical treatment).One hundred two patients were included, of whom 30 had an inevitable or threatened miscarriage and 72 had a missed abortion. The success rate defined by complete expulsion of the products of conception without resorting to surgical evacuation and without short-term complications, was 78.4% (80 patients). Two patients were lost to follow-up at 48 hours. Complete expulsion occurred within 2 days in 94% of cases. There were 13 emergency consultations, including 8 for expulsion pain and five surgical evacuations (3 for hemorrhagic expulsion, 2 for hemorrhagic retention). All together, there were 15 surgical evacuations for retention of the products of conception after 1 or 2 doses of misoprostol. There was one case of endometritis (1%). Thirty-four patients were hospitalized, 22 for surgical evacuation and 12 for expulsion pain.It is possible to use misoprostol as a single vaginal dose (800 microg) as out-patient treatment, since it gives satisfactory efficacy (80%) and is sufficiently safe (5% needing emergency surgery). However, out-patient management should only be performed after explaining the treatment and its risks clearly to the patient.

The utilization, during pregnancy, of low molecular weight heparin (enoxaparine) for obstetric thromboprophylaxis for patients with activated protein C resistance, following Factor V Leiden mutation.Prospective study enrolling 10 pregnant patients heterozygote or homozygote for Factor V Leiden mutation. They all had familial or personal history of severe thrombotic disease and received 40 mg per day of enoxaparine.No thrombosis or hemorrhage were recorded during pregnancies or deliveries. All the infants were doing well. After birth, low molecular, weight heparin were continued between 6 to 12 weeks accordingly allelic status and history. We reviewed the literature on this subject.This series confirmed the efficacy, safety and tolerance of low molecular weight heparins which will probably become the next gold standard for obstetric thromboprophylaxis.

Evaluation of the feasibility of bilateral sacropinous ligament suspension with a stapler. Morbidity study and short term results.Prospective study from July 1994 to August 1996.Bilateral sacrospinous ligament suspension with a stapler was possible in 100% of cases and surgical technique is described. Our indications are stage III Bp and stage IV genital prolapses (according to the American Urogynecologic Society classification, 1996), with or without uterus, and when a Bologna's procedure is performed, in order to prevent enterocele. In 24 patients, the uterus was present. 20 vaginal hysterectomies and 4 conservative bilateral uterine suspensions were performed. The sacrospinous ligament suspension was associated to anterior colporrhaphy (in 74% of patients), repair of rectocele (82%), repair of enterocele (26%), posterior colpoperineorrhaphy (79%), bladder neck suspension (71%). No vascular injury nor post operative constipation was noted. In 2 patients, a small rectal laceration occurred, and in one patient one branch of the staple transfixed the rectal mucosa. Removal of the staple was easily performed without any post-operative complication. First results after an average 19 months follow-up (range 9 to 32) shows a perfect anatomic result in 77% of cases. We noted one recurrence of a vaginal vault prolapse; the patient underwent a second sacrospinous ligament fixation with good result. One patient had a stage II Aa cystocele post-operatively and three patients had a short vagina (6 cm). Patients who were continent before the sacrocolpopexy did not develop further urinary stress-incontinence.Bilateral transvaginal sacrospinous ligament suspension with a stapler facilitates the procedure. No post-operative constipation was noted with this method. Our first results are good. The cost of the stappler may limit its extensive use.

International audience; OBJECTIVE: To estimate the accuracy and reliability of the reporting of diagnoses and procedures related to severe acute maternal morbidity in French hospital discharge data. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: The study, conducted in four French tertiary teaching hospitals, covered the years 2006 and 2007 and 30,607 deliveries. We identified severe maternal morbid events-eclampsia, pulmonary embolism, procedures related to postpartum hemorrhages, and intensive care-in administrative hospital discharge data and medical records and compared their recording. Information from medical records was the gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value of the hospital discharge data for these events were calculated. False positives and false negatives were examined to identify the reasons for misrecorded information. RESULTS: The PPV of the hospital discharge data was 20% for eclampsia. For procedures related to postpartum hemorrhages, the PPVs were high, but sensitivities were lower; however, 95% of recording errors could be corrected. All indicators for intensive care exceeded 98%. CONCLUSION: Intensive care and procedures seem reliably reported in the hospital administrative database, which, therefore, can be used to monitor them. Using these data for monitoring diagnoses will require a greater investment by clinicians in the accuracy of their reporting.

International audience; OBJECTIVE: To estimate the accuracy and reliability of the reporting of diagnoses and procedures related to severe acute maternal morbidity in French hospital discharge data. STUDY DESIGN AND SETTING: The study, conducted in four French tertiary teaching hospitals, covered the years 2006 and 2007 and 30,607 deliveries. We identified severe maternal morbid events-eclampsia, pulmonary embolism, procedures related to postpartum hemorrhages, and intensive care-in administrative hospital discharge data and medical records and compared their recording. Information from medical records was the gold standard. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), and negative predictive value of the hospital discharge data for these events were calculated. False positives and false negatives were examined to identify the reasons for misrecorded information. RESULTS: The PPV of the hospital discharge data was 20% for eclampsia. For procedures related to postpartum hemorrhages, the PPVs were high, but sensitivities were lower; however, 95% of recording errors could be corrected. All indicators for intensive care exceeded 98%. CONCLUSION: Intensive care and procedures seem reliably reported in the hospital administrative database, which, therefore, can be used to monitor them. Using these data for monitoring diagnoses will require a greater investment by clinicians in the accuracy of their reporting.