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In twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) communicating placental vessels on the chorionic plate between the donor and recipient twins are responsible for the chronic imbalance of blood flow. Evidence demonstrates that fetoscopic laser ablation is superior to serial amnioreductions in terms of survival and neurological outcome for stages II-IV TTTS. However, the optimal management of stage I TTTS remains poorly understood. It is well established that all chorionic plate anastomoses should be closed by laser ablation. Compared to the selective laser method, the Solomon technique yields a significant reduction of recurrent TTTS and post-laser twin anemia polycythemia sequence (TAPS). Over the past 25 years, survival rates after fetoscopic laser surgery have significantly increased. High volume centers report up to 70% double survival and at least one survivor in90% cases. In this review, we discuss the controversies in the diagnosis and management of TTTS, especially, the optimal management in stage I cases, very early or late diagnosis, and the optimal laser technique. Furthermore, we will discuss a stage-related outcome after laser surgery and examine whether it is necessary at all to distinguish between stages I and II. Finally, the optimal timing as well as mode of delivery after TTTS laser treatment will be discussed.

ZusammenfassungEine zielgerichtete Adaptation des mütterlichen Immunsystems an die Schwangerschaft ist essenziell, um einen komplikationslosen Schwangerschaftsverlauf zu ermöglichen. Hierfür ist ein komplexes Zusammenspiel von fetalen Trophoblastzellen, mütterlichen Immunzellen und dezidualen Stromazellen an der fetomaternalen Grenzzone notwendig. Auch systemisch erfolgen grundlegende immunologische Veränderungen. Darüber hinaus unterliegt die mütterliche Immunantwort einer zeitlichen Dynamik und passt sich den wechselnden Anforderungen der fortschreitenden Schwangerschaft an. Weiterhin unterliegt die mütterliche Immunantwort der Modulation von multiplen Einflussfaktoren, z. B. Hormonen. Im Beitrag werden Kernaspekte der immunologischen Adaptation an die Schwangerschaft beleuchtet, neuartige technologische Ansätze des Monitorings vorgestellt und klinische Anwendungspotenziale diskutiert.

Fetal anemia secondary to incompatibility between maternal-fetal blood types can result in hydrops and demise. Intrauterine transfusions have improved survival in experience centers. Our objective was to determine the practice patterns amongst fetal centers.Thirteen fetal centers across the world were surveyed. Results from all participating centers were recorded, analyzed, and presented as ratios. Questions on the survey were related to experience of the physician, preferred methods of transfusion, fetal surveillance, and timing of delivery.Differences amongst centers were as follows: 54% of the centers performed transfusions in operating room, the remaining did them in a clinic room or close to the operating room; 31% did not use maternal anesthesia, 31% used oral or intravenous sedation and 38% used a combination of local with oral or intravenous sedation. The similarities include: 84% performed intravenous transfusions, while 2 centers reported intraperitoneal and intracardiac transfusions were performed for very early cases; 85% of centers performed the last transfusion at 34-35 weeks and 77% electively delivered their patients at 37 weeks.Method of transfusion and delivery timing was similar in most centers; however, differences were seen in location of procedure, anesthetic coverage, and surveillance. Further assessment is needed to determine if these differences in practice have any potential neonatal effects.

ZusammenfassungSeit Beginn der SARS-CoV-2-Pandemie haben die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe und die Gesellschaft für Peri-/Neonatalmedizin Empfehlungen zum Umgang mit SARS-CoV-2-positiven Schwangerschaften und Neugeborenen veröffentlicht und wiederholt aktualisiert. Als Weiterführung der bestehenden Empfehlungen werden in dem aktuellen Update Schlüsselfragen zur prä-, peri- und postnatalen Versorgung von Schwangeren, Gebärenden, Wöchnerinnen, Stillenden mit SARS-CoV-2 und COVID-19 sowie deren Un- oder Neugeborenen auf der Grundlage von Veröffentlichungen bis zum September 2021 behandelt. Die Empfehlungen und Stellungnahmen wurden sorgfältig aus den aktuell verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Daten abgeleitet und anschließend im Expertenkonsens verabschiedet. Dieser Leitfaden – hier in der Kurzfassung vorliegend – soll eine Hilfe für die klinische Entscheidungsfindung darstellen. Die Auslegung und therapeutische Verantwortung obliegen weiterhin dem betreuenden medizinischen Team vor Ort, dessen Entscheidungen durch diese Empfehlungen unterstützt werden sollen. Aufgrund der raschen Dynamik neuer Erkenntnisse kann eine Anpassung erforderlich sein. Die Empfehlungen werden durch die Zustimmung der Fachgesellschaften getragen: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Perinatale Medizin (DGPM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe (DGGG), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pränatal- und Geburtsmedizin (DGPGM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Infektiologie (DGPI), Gesellschaft für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin (GNPI).

BackgroundSevere early-onset fetal growth restriction (FGR) causes significant fetal and neonatal mortality and morbidity. Predicting the outcome of affected pregnancies at the time of diagnosis is difficult, preventing accurate patient counselling. We investigated the use of maternal serum protein and ultrasound measures at diagnosis to predict fetal or neonatal death and three secondary outcomes: fetal death or delivery ≤28+0 weeks; development of abnormal umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry; slow fetal growth.MethodsWomen with singleton pregnancies (n=142, estimated fetal weights [EFWs] rdcentile, ResultsThe most discriminative model for fetal or neonatal death included EFW z-score (Hadlock 3 formula/Marsal chart), gestational age and umbilical artery Doppler category (AUC 0.91, 95%CI 0.86-0.97) but was less well calibrated than the model containing only EFW z-score (Hadlock3/Marsal). The most discriminative model for fetal death or delivery ≤28+0 weeks included maternal serum placental growth factor (PlGF) concentration and umbilical artery Doppler category (AUC 0.89, 95%CI 0.83-0.94).ConclusionUltrasound measurements and maternal serum PlGF concentration at diagnosis of severe early-onset FGR predict pregnancy outcomes of importance to patients and clinicians.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.govNCT02097667FundingEuropean Union, Rosetrees Trust, Mitchell Charitable Trust.

To assess the longitudinal variation of the ratio of umbilical and cerebral artery pulsatility index (UCR) in late preterm fetal growth restriction (FGR). A prospective European multicenter observational study included women with a singleton pregnancy, 32 856 women had 2770 measurements; 696 (81 %) had more than one measurement (median 3 (IQR 2-4). At inclusion, 63 (7 %) a UCR ≥ 0.9. These delivered earlier and had a lower birth weight and higher incidence of adverse outcome (30 % vs. 9 %, relative risk 3.2; 95 %CI 2.1-5.0) than women with a normal UCR at inclusion. Repeated measurements after an abnormal UCR at inclusion were abnormal again in 67 % (95 %CI 55-80), but after a normal UCR the chance of finding an abnormal UCR was 6 % (95 %CI 5-7 %). The risk of composite adverse outcome was similar using the first or subsequent UCR values. An abnormal UCR is likely to be abnormal again at a later measurement, while after a normal UCR the chance of an abnormal UCR is 5-7 % when repeated weekly. Repeated measurements do not predict outcome better than the first measurement, most likely due to the most compromised fetuses being delivered after an abnormal UCR.ZIEL: Beurteilung der longitudinalen Variation der umbilikozerebralen Ratio (UCR) der Pulsatilitätsindizes bei später fetaler Wachstumsrestriktion (FGR). Eine prospektive europäische multizentrische Beobachtungsstudie schloss Frauen mit Einlingsschwangerschaft (32 856 Frauen hatten 2770 Messungen; 696 (81 %) hatten mehr als eine Messung (Median 3, IQR 2–4). Bei Einschluss hatten 63 (7 %) eine UCR ≥ 0,9. Diese entbanden früher und hatten ein niedrigeres Geburtsgewicht und eine höhere Inzidenz für einen unerwünschten Outcome (30 % vs. 9 %, relatives Risiko 3,2; 95 %-KI 2,1–5,0) im Vergleich zu Frauen mit normaler UCR bei Einschluss. Wiederholte Messungen nach abnormaler UCR bei Einschluss waren in 67 % (95 %-KI 55–80) erneut abnormal, aber nach einer normalen UCR betrug die Wahrscheinlichkeit, eine abnormale UCR zu finden, 6 % (95 %-KI 5–7 %). Das Risiko für einen kombinierten unerwünschten Outcome war ähnlich, wenn man den ersten oder den nachfolgenden UCR-Wert verwendete. Eine abnormale UCR ist wahrscheinlich bei einer späteren Messung wieder abnormal, während nach einer normalen UCR die Wahrscheinlichkeit einer abnormalen UCR bei wöchentlicher Wiederholung 5–7 % beträgt. Wiederholte Messungen sagen das Ergebnis nicht besser voraus als die erste Messung, was höchstwahrscheinlich darauf zurückzuführen ist, dass die am stärksten gefährdeten Föten nach einer abnormalen UCR entbunden werden.

ZusammenfassungSeit Beginn der SARS-CoV-2-Pandemie haben die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe und die Gesellschaft für Peri-/Neonatalmedizin Empfehlungen zum Umgang mit SARS-CoV-2-positiven Schwangerschaften und Neugeborenen veröffentlicht und wiederholt aktualisiert. Als Weiterführung der bestehenden Empfehlungen werden in dem aktuellen Update Schlüsselfragen zur prä-, peri- und postnatalen Versorgung von Schwangeren, Gebärenden, Wöchnerinnen, Stillenden mit SARS-CoV-2 und COVID-19 sowie deren Un- oder Neugeborenen auf der Grundlage von Veröffentlichungen bis zum September 2021 behandelt. Die Empfehlungen und Stellungnahmen wurden sorgfältig aus den aktuell verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Daten abgeleitet und anschließend im Expertenkonsens verabschiedet. Dieser Leitfaden – hier in der Langfassung vorliegend – soll eine Hilfe für die klinische Entscheidungsfindung darstellen. Die Auslegung und therapeutische Verantwortung obliegen weiterhin dem betreuenden medizinischen Team vor Ort, dessen Entscheidungen durch diese Empfehlungen unterstützt werden sollen. Aufgrund der raschen Dynamik neuer Erkenntnisse kann eine Anpassung erforderlich sein. Die Empfehlungen werden durch die Zustimmung der Fachgesellschaften getragen: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Perinatale Medizin (DGPM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe (DGGG), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pränatal- und Geburtsmedizin (DGPGM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Infektiologie (DGPI), Gesellschaft für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin (GNPI).

BACKGROUND: Pregnancy may be associated with adverse outcome in women with congenital heart disease (CHD). However, data regarding the outcome of pregnancy in women with CHD who receive care in cardiac-obstetric expert units are limited. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed baseline characteristics and outcome of pregnancy in 67 females with CHD who received medical care in our tertiary center for 61 singleton and 6 twin pregnancies between 2009 and 2018. RESULTS: According to the modified World Health Organization (mWHO) risk scale for pregnancy, CHD lesions in 39 enrolled women (58%) were classified as mWHO class I or II, and in 28 females (42%) as mWHO class III or IV. Preterm births were more frequent in mWHO classes III or IV (P=0.003). Cardiac signs and complications occurred more often in mWHO classes III or IV than in women with cardiac lesions assigned to mWHO classes I or II (42.9% vs. 7.7%, P=0.002). N-terminal pro B-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) levels during pregnancy were higher in mWHO classes III or IV than in mWHO classes I or II (median 269.0 vs. 115.5 pg/mL, P=0.019). Presence of functional NYHA class III [odds ratio (OR) per standard deviation (SD) 8.8, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.2–57.2, P=0.008] and mWHO classes III/IV (OR per SD 3.4, 95% CI: 1.2–9.9, P=0.018) prior to pregnancy were identified as independent predictors of adverse cardiac outcome of pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS: Adverse cardiac events and preterm deliveries should be anticipated in pregnant women with CHD, especially in those with mWHO classes III or IV. Therefore, these pregnancies should be under close surveillance and managed in specialized, multidisciplinary tertiary referral centers. Preconception counseling including individualized risk assessment is strongly recommended in women with CHD.

OBJECTIVE To compare the perinatal outcome of monochorionic twin pregnancies with twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS), according to the disease severity, defined using Quintero staging, after treatment with fetoscopic laser surgery. METHODS This was a single-center study of 1020 consecutive cases with severe TTTS, which were treated with fetoscopic laser surgery. During the study period from January 1995 to March 2013, the participants were included at a mean ± SD gestational age of 20.8 ± 2.2 weeks. Perinatal survival analysis, including the rates of double survival and survival of at least one fetus, was undertaken according to the Quintero staging system. For blockwise comparisons of data, the whole population was divided into five chronologically consecutive study subgroups of 200 patients in each of the first four subgroups and 220 in the last one. RESULTS For the entire study population with known outcome (n = 1019), the rate of pregnancy with double fetal survival was 69.0% (127/184) in Stage-I, 71.4% (257/360) in Stage-II, 55.4% (236/426) in Stage-III and 51.0% (25/49) in Stage-IV TTTS cases. At least one twin survived in 91.3% (168/184) of pregnancies with Stage-I, 89.7% (323/360) of those with Stage-II, 83.1% (354/426) of those with Stage-III and 77.6% (38/49) of those with Stage-IV TTTS. The rates of double survival and survival of at least one fetus were both significantly higher in Stage-II TTTS compared with those in Stage-III TTTS cases (P

Einleitung Dreiviertel aller Gebarenden erhalten wahrend der Geburt eine Analgesie. Es stehen regionale und systemische Analgesieverfahren zur Verfugung. Diese Ubersichtsarbeit analysiert die Datenlage zu den Auswirkungen einer geburtshilflichen Analgesie mit systemischen Opioiden auf das Neugeborene. Methoden Die Datenbanken PubMed und Cochrane Library wurden nach den folgenden Begriffen durchsucht: „Meptazinol“, „Meptid“, „analgesia“, „painkiller“, „pain reliever“, „obstetrics“, „labor“, „labour“, „delivery“, „neonate“, „newborn“, „child“, „baby“, „infant“, „fetus“, „fetal“, „opioid“ und „opiate“ sowie zusatzlich eine MeSH Terms Suche in PubMed durchgefuhrt. Ergebnisse Von 355 potenziell relevanten Studien wurden 23 Studien in diese Arbeit eingeschlossen. Die Studien variierten stark in Qualitat, Stichprobengrose und Outcome-Kriterien. Das neonatale Outcome war haufig nur ein sekundarer Endpunkt. Selten wurden signifikante Unterschiede bezogen auf das Outcome der Neugeborenen zwischen den verschiedenen systemischen Opioiden oder im Vergleich zu Kontrollgruppen berichtet. In 12 Studien wurden die APGAR-Werte der Neugeborenen zwischen Behandlungsgruppen verglichen, wobei sich bei 10 (83%) dieser Studien keine Unterschiede zeigten. Diskussion/Ausblick Die Evidenzlage zu Auswirkungen geburtshilflicher Analgesie mit systemischen Opioiden ist insgesamt gering und Studien zum Langzeit-Outcome von Neugeborenen fehlen. Auch die Frage, ob eine postnatale Uberwachung der Neugeborenen notwendig ist, kann nicht klar beantwortet werden. Studien mit prospektivem Studiendesign sollten durchgefuhrt werden. Introduction Three-quarters of all women receive analgesia during labor. There are regional and systemic analgesia procedures available. In this review, we investigate the impact of obstetric analgesia using systemic opioids on neonatal outcomes. Methods We searched the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases using the following search terms: “meptazinol”, “meptide”, “analgesia”, “painkiller”, “pain reliever”, “obstetrics”, “labor”, “labour”, “delivery”, “neonate”, “newborn”, “child”, “baby”, “infant”, “fetus”, “fetal”, “opioid” and “opiate” as well as performed an additional MeSH Terms search in PubMed. Results Of 355 potentially relevant studies, we included 23 studies in this review. The studies varied widely in quality, sample size, and outcome criteria. Neonatal outcome was often only a secondary endpoint. Rarely were significant differences related to neonatal outcome reported between the different systemic opioids or compared with control groups. Twelve studies compared neonatal APGAR scores between treatment groups, with ten (83%) of these studies showing no differences. Discussion/outlook In summary, we assess the evidence as limited and ambiguous as to whether systemic obstetric opioid therapy negatively affects the newborn. Studies regarding the long-term outcome of the newborns are lacking. A statement regarding the necessity of postnatal monitoring of newborns after maternal obstetric opioid therapy cannot be concluded. Further studies, ideally with a prospective study design and control group, should be considered.

Background The fetal adrenal gland receives rising awareness as a predictor of spontaneous preterm birth. We hereby provide longitudinal growth assessments of the fetal adrenal gland in a low risk population with an additional focus on trajectories in fetuses born preterm. Methods Fetal adrenal gland was assessed via transabdominal ultrasound at gestational weeks (gw) 24–26, 28–30, and 34–36 in a low-risk pregnancy cohort. Longitudinal trajectories of the total gland and the mark (so called fetal zone) as well as ratio of fetal zone width/ total widths (w/W) were analyzed using repeated ANOVA analyses. To compare trajectories of the ratio w/W for preterm and term fetuses respectively, as well as women with and without clinical signs of preterm labor, the propensity score method was applied. Results Fetal zone width increased over the course of pregnancy (p p n = 327). Comparing the trajectories of the ratio w/W in fetuses born preterm (n = 11) with propensity-score matched term born fetuses (n = 22), a decrease between gw 24–26 and 28–30 was observed in both groups, which continued to decrease for the term born fetuses. However, in preterm born fetuses, the ratio increased above the term born values at gw 34–36. Conclusion Our study provides for the first time longitudinal growth data on the fetal adrenal gland and supports the hypothesis that fetal zone enlargement is associated with preterm birth which could play an important role in risk-prediction.

With begin of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic the german obstetric, peri-/neonatological and pediatric professional societies published recommendations for care of pregnant and newborn, as well as for necessary staff protection in March 2020 [1-3]. Because of the rapid emerging increase of knowledge an update is required. This work therefore perceives as prosecution of the existing recommendations [1-3].Worldwide national recommendations were recently compared and published in a consensual review [4]. In methodological dependence this update of recommendations comments on key questions of pre-, peri- and postnatal care at SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, based on publications up to 30.05.2020. Statements represent a carefully concerned expert consensus and can change contemporary as new knowledge appears.The responsibility for concrete management remains at the local medical team, decisions should be supported by these recommendations.Mit Beginn der SARS-CoV-2 Pandemie haben die deutschen geburtshilflichen und pädiatrischen Fachgesellschaften im März 2020 Empfehlungen zur Versorgung infizierter Schwangerer und deren Neugeborener, wie auch notwendige Schutzmaßnahmen für das Personal veröffentlicht [1–3]. Eine Aktualisierung ist aufgrund des rasanten Wissenszuwachses notwendig. Die vorliegende Empfehlung versteht sich daher als Fortschreibung der bereits vorliegenden Publikationen [1–3].Von der Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group wurden weltweit nationale Empfehlungen verglichen und als Review veröffentlicht [4]. In methodischer Anlehnung hieran nehmen die vorliegenden aktualisierten Empfehlungen Stellung zu den Kernfragen der prä-, peri- und postnatalen Betreuung bei SARS-CoV-2 und COVID-19, auf der Grundlage der bis zum 30.05.2020 verfügbaren Publikationen. Die Stellungnahmen basieren auf einem sorgfältig abgestimmten ExpertInnenkonsens und können sich – insofern neue Erkenntnisse veröffentlicht werden – zeitnah ändern.Die Verantwortung für das konkrete Vorgehen bleibt bei dem vor Ort medizinisch betreuenden Team, dessen Entscheidungen durch diese Empfehlung unterstützt werden sollen.

Background There is evidence that pregnancy-related anxiety (PrA) has a negative impact on birth outcomes and infant development. However, little is known about worrisome levels and individual trajectories of PrA dimensions across pregnancy and their predictive factors, particularly the association of PrA with symptoms of social phobia (SP) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). Methods A sample of 180 pregnant women was assessed three times during pregnancy with the Pregnancy-Related Anxiety Questionnaire-Revised 2 (PRAQ-R2). Linear mixed model analyses were used to investigate the course of different PrA dimensions across pregnancy, and to relate PrA to symptoms of social and generalized anxiety. Additionally, distinct developmental patterns of PrA were explored by latent class growth analyses. Results While the PrA total score remained stable, the different dimensions of PrA varied significantly over time. After controlling for obstetric and sociodemographic factors as well as depression, perceived social support and self-efficacy, symptoms of SP significantly predicted higher levels of fear of childbirth, child-related worries and concerns about mother´s appearance. Symptoms of GAD predicted higher child-related worries. Moreover, two distinct groups of women with either consistently higher or lower PrA scores were identified. Limitations Our results are limited due to the use of self-report questionnaires and would benefit from a larger sample size and replication in high-risk samples. Conclusion Our study suggests that a longitudinal and differentiated investigation of specific forms of prenatal anxiety may improve our understanding of women at high risk for PrA and promote the development of individualized forms of interventions initiated during pregnancy.

Background: Although fetal size is associated with adverse perinatal outcome, the relationship between fetal growth velocity and adverse perinatal outcome is unclear. Objective: This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between fetal growth velocity and signs of cerebral blood flow redistribution, and their association with birthweight and adverse perinatal outcome. Study Design: This study was a secondary analysis of the TRUFFLE-2 multicenter observational prospective feasibility study of fetuses at risk of fetal growth restriction between 32 +0 and 36 +6 weeks of gestation (n=856), evaluated by ultrasound biometry and umbilical and middle cerebral artery Doppler. Individual fetal growth velocity was calculated from the difference of birthweight and estimated fetal weight at 3, 2, and 1 week before delivery, and by linear regression of all available estimated fetal weight measurements. Fetal estimated weight and birthweight were expressed as absolute value and as multiple of the median for statistical calculation. The coefficients of the individual linear regression of estimated fetal weight measurements (growth velocity; g/wk) were plotted against the last umbilical-cerebral ratio with subclassification for perinatal outcome. The association of these measurements with adverse perinatal outcome was assessed. The adverse perinatal outcome was a composite of abnormal condition at birth or major neonatal morbidity. Results: Adverse perinatal outcome was more frequent among fetuses whose antenatal growth was

Since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Society for Peri-/Neonatal Medicine have published and repeatedly updated recommendations for the management of SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnancies and neonates. As a continuation of existing recommendations, the current update addresses key issues related to the prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care of pregnant women, women who have recently given birth, women who are breastfeeding with SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, and their unborn or newborn infants, based on publications through September 2021. Recommendations and opinions were carefully derived from currently available scientific data and subsequently adopted by expert consensus. This guideline - here available in the short version - is intended to be an aid to clinical decision making. Interpretation and therapeutic responsibility remain with the supervising local medical team, whose decisions should be supported by these recommendations. Adjustments may be necessary due to the rapid dynamics of new evidence. The recommendations are supported by the endorsement of the professional societies: German Society for Perinatal Medicine (DGPM), German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG), German Society for Prenatal and Obstetric Medicine (DGPGM), German Society for Pediatric Infectiology (DGPI), Society for Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine (GNPI).Seit Beginn der SARS-CoV-2-Pandemie haben die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe und die Gesellschaft für Peri-/Neonatalmedizin Empfehlungen zum Umgang mit SARS-CoV-2-positiven Schwangerschaften und Neugeborenen veröffentlicht und wiederholt aktualisiert. Als Weiterführung der bestehenden Empfehlungen werden in dem aktuellen Update Schlüsselfragen zur prä-, peri- und postnatalen Versorgung von Schwangeren, Gebärenden, Wöchnerinnen, Stillenden mit SARS-CoV-2 und COVID-19 sowie deren Un- oder Neugeborenen auf der Grundlage von Veröffentlichungen bis zum September 2021 behandelt. Die Empfehlungen und Stellungnahmen wurden sorgfältig aus den aktuell verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Daten abgeleitet und anschließend im Expertenkonsens verabschiedet. Dieser Leitfaden – hier in der Kurzfassung vorliegend – soll eine Hilfe für die klinische Entscheidungsfindung darstellen. Die Auslegung und therapeutische Verantwortung obliegen weiterhin dem betreuenden medizinischen Team vor Ort, dessen Entscheidungen durch diese Empfehlungen unterstützt werden sollen. Aufgrund der raschen Dynamik neuer Erkenntnisse kann eine Anpassung erforderlich sein. Die Empfehlungen werden durch die Zustimmung der Fachgesellschaften getragen: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Perinatale Medizin (DGPM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe (DGGG), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pränatal- und Geburtsmedizin (DGPGM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Infektiologie (DGPI), Gesellschaft für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin (GNPI).

OBJECTIVE: Adverse event (AE) monitoring is central to assessing therapeutic safety. The lack of a comprehensive framework to define and grade maternal and fetal AEs in pregnancy trials severely limits understanding risks in pregnant women. We created AE terminology to improve safety monitoring for developing pregnancy drugs, devices and interventions. METHOD: Existing severity grading for pregnant AEs and definitions/indicators of 'severe' and 'life-threatening' conditions relevant to maternal and fetal clinical trials were identified through a literature search. An international multidisciplinary group identified and filled gaps in definitions and severity grading using Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA) terms and severity grading criteria based on Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Event (CTCAE) generic structure. The draft criteria underwent two rounds of a modified Delphi process with international fetal therapy, obstetric, neonatal, industry experts, patients and patient representatives. RESULTS: Fetal AEs were defined as being diagnosable in utero with potential to harm the fetus, and were integrated into MedDRA. AE severity was graded independently for the pregnant woman and her fetus. Maternal (n = 12) and fetal (n = 19) AE definitions and severity grading criteria were developed and ratified by consensus. CONCLUSIONS: This Maternal and Fetal AE Terminology version 1.0 allows systematic consistent AE assessment in pregnancy trials to improve safety. ispartof: PRENATAL DIAGNOSIS vol:42 issue:1 pages:15-26 ispartof: location:England status: published

Since the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, the German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics and the Society for Peri-/Neonatal Medicine have published and repeatedly updated recommendations for the management of SARS-CoV-2 positive pregnancies and neonates. As a continuation of existing recommendations, the current update addresses key issues related to the prenatal, perinatal, and postnatal care of pregnant women, women who have given birth, women who have recently given birth, women who are breastfeeding with SARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19, and their unborn or newborn infants, based on publications through September 2021. Recommendations and opinions were carefully derived from currently available scientific data and subsequently adopted by expert consensus. This guideline - here available in the long version - is intended to be an aid to clinical decision making. Interpretation and therapeutic responsibility remain with the supervising local medical team, whose decisions should be supported by these recommendations. Adjustments may be necessary due to the rapid dynamics of new evidence. The recommendations are supported by the endorsement of the professional societies: German Society for Perinatal Medicine (DGPM), German Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (DGGG), German Society for Prenatal and Obstetric Medicine (DGPGM), German Society for Pediatric Infectiology (DGPI), Society for Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care Medicine (GNPI).Seit Beginn der SARS-CoV-2-Pandemie haben die Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe und die Gesellschaft für Peri-/Neonatalmedizin Empfehlungen zum Umgang mit SARS-CoV-2-positiven Schwangerschaften und Neugeborenen veröffentlicht und wiederholt aktualisiert. Als Weiterführung der bestehenden Empfehlungen werden in dem aktuellen Update Schlüsselfragen zur prä-, peri- und postnatalen Versorgung von Schwangeren, Gebärenden, Wöchnerinnen, Stillenden mit SARS-CoV-2 und COVID-19 sowie deren Un- oder Neugeborenen auf der Grundlage von Veröffentlichungen bis zum September 2021 behandelt. Die Empfehlungen und Stellungnahmen wurden sorgfältig aus den aktuell verfügbaren wissenschaftlichen Daten abgeleitet und anschließend im Expertenkonsens verabschiedet. Dieser Leitfaden – hier in der Langfassung vorliegend – soll eine Hilfe für die klinische Entscheidungsfindung darstellen. Die Auslegung und therapeutische Verantwortung obliegen weiterhin dem betreuenden medizinischen Team vor Ort, dessen Entscheidungen durch diese Empfehlungen unterstützt werden sollen. Aufgrund der raschen Dynamik neuer Erkenntnisse kann eine Anpassung erforderlich sein. Die Empfehlungen werden durch die Zustimmung der Fachgesellschaften getragen: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Perinatale Medizin (DGPM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe (DGGG), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pränatal- und Geburtsmedizin (DGPGM), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Pädiatrische Infektiologie (DGPI), Gesellschaft für Neonatologie und Pädiatrische Intensivmedizin (GNPI).

Background: Current recommendations for neonatal endotracheal tube (ETT) insertion depths require the knowledge of anthropometric measurements, which are not immediately available in the delivery room setting. Objective: This study aimed to develop recommendations based on prenatally available fetal biometric measurements. Methods: In this retrospective study, the optimal ETT depths for nasotracheal insertion were correlated with fetal demographic and biometric data. Using linear regression analysis, diagrams with best-fit lines and tables for the recommendation of ETT insertion depth based on the prenatally available data were generated. Results: We analyzed optimal nasotracheal ETT insertion depth in 98 neonates (gestational age range: 23.7–42.0 weeks). Linear regression analysis revealed high correlations between fetal measurements and the optimal ETT insertion depth (R2 = 0.712–0.837). Conclusion: We provide recommendations for neonatal nasotracheal ETT insertion depths based on prenatally available data with the potential to facilitate rapid and accurate intubation of neonates.

The following AWMF guideline (DGGG/AGG & DEGUM responsible) deals with the diagnosis, screening and management of twins as well as the timing and mode of birth.Twin pregnancies can be classified as dichorionic diamniotic (DC DA), monochorionic diamniotic (MC DA) and monochorionic monoamniotic (MC MA) which are always monochorionic.Twin pregnancies can be concordant (both twins are affected) or discordant (only one twin is affected) for chromosomal defects, malformations, growth restriction and hemodynamic disorders.Chorionicity is the prognostically most significant parameter. Monochorial twins have significantly higher risks of intrauterine morbidity and mortality compared to dichorial twins.In particular, general aspects of twin pregnancies such as dating, determination of chorionicity and amnionicity, the labeling of twin fetuses and the perinatal switch phenomenon are discussed.Routine monitoring of MC and DC twin pregnancies with ultrasound at 11–13+ 6 weeks of gestation for chromosomal defects, invasive prenatal diagnosis, first-trimester NT or CRL discrepancies, early diagnosis of fetal anatomical defects, and management of twins with abnormalities, including selective fetocide, is described.Second trimester screening and management for preterm birth, intrauterine selective growth restriction (sFGR), classification of monochorial twins with sFGR, and management of the surviving twin after the death of the co-twin are described.Complications exclusively affecting MC twins include Twin to Twin Transfusion Syndrome (TTTS) with the important topics screening, prognosis, complications of laser therapy, timing of delivery, risks for brain abnormalities and delayed neurological development, Twin Anemia-Polycythemia Sequence (TAPS) and Twin Reversed Arterial Perfusion (TRAP) Sequence. This also includes MC MA twins as well as conjoined twins.Finally, the birth mode and time for DC and MC twin pregnancies are described.The information is summarized in 62 recommendations for action, 4 tables and 8 illustrations with comprehensive background texts.The guideline is an international guideline adaptation (ISUOG, NICE) as well as a systematic literature search and is up-to-date.

Pregnant women may be at higher risk of severe complications associated with the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), which may lead to obstetrical complications. We performed a case control study comparing pregnant women with severe coronavirus disease 19 (cases) to pregnant women with a milder form (controls) enrolled in the COVI-Preg international registry cohort between March 24 and July 26, 2020. Risk factors for severity, obstetrical and immediate neonatal outcomes were assessed. A total of 926 pregnant women with a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 were included, among which 92 (9.9%) presented with severe COVID-19 disease. Risk factors for severe maternal outcomes were pulmonary comorbidities [aOR 4.3, 95% CI 1.9-9.5], hypertensive disorders [aOR 2.7, 95% CI 1.0-7.0] and diabetes [aOR2.2, 95% CI 1.1-4.5]. Pregnant women with severe maternal outcomes were at higher risk of caesarean section [70.7% (n = 53/75)], preterm delivery [62.7% (n = 32/51)] and newborns requiring admission to the neonatal intensive care unit [41.3% (n = 31/75)]. In this study, several risk factors for developing severe complications of SARS-CoV-2 infection among pregnant women were identified including pulmonary comorbidities, hypertensive disorders and diabetes. Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes appear to be influenced by the severity of maternal disease. ispartof: SCIENTIFIC REPORTS vol:11 issue:1 ispartof: location:England status: published

ZusammenfassungPlazentare Chorangiome sind als benigne Tumore des Choriongewebes seltene Ursache fetaler und maternaler Morbidität. Wir beschreiben den Fall eines großen plazentaren Chorangioms, das zu einem Polyhydramnion, konsekutiver Frühgeburt und kindlicher High-Output-Herzinsuffizienz führte. Aus einer Literaturrecherche leiten wir zudem Hinweise zur Diagnostik und Empfehlungen zur optimalen Schwangerschaftsbetreuung bei Verdacht auf Chorioangiom ab.

Obstetrical complications such as spontaneous abortion/miscarriage, fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia or preterm birth occur in approx. 15% of human pregnancies. Clinical experts often state that a previous uncomplicated pregnancy reduces the risk for complications in subsequent pregnancies. Vice versa, a prior pregnancy affected by obstetrical complications increases the risk for reoccurrence. However, published evidence directly underpinning these clinical statements is sparse. Considering that the maternal immune adaptation may be causally involved in determining the outcome of subsequent pregnancies, a comprehensive analysis of clinical data was long overdue. We here present a systematic analysis of clinical data using a PubMed-based approach to identify human studies with relevant information on birth weight and incidences of pregnancy complications in first and second pregnancies. From initially 18,592 publications, 37 studies were included in the quantitative data analysis. Women with a previous pregnancy affected by complications where a derailed immune response can be inferred have a 2.2-3.2-fold increased risk to be affected again in a subsequent pregnancy. Conversely, a normally progressing primary pregnancy reduced the risk for complications in a subsequent pregnancy by 35-65%. Moreover, an uncomplicated primary pregnancy was associated with a 4.2% increased birth weight in a following pregnancy without a difference in gestational age at delivery. In conclusion, the increased birth weight after previously uncomplicated pregnancies suggests that an immune memory is mounted during primary pregnancies. This immune memory may promote the successful outcome of subsequent pregnancies or - if missing or compromised - account for a risk perpetuation of pregnancy complications.