Cesarean section prior to 28 weeks' gestation: which type of uterine incision is optimal?

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors that influence physician preference for type of hysterotomy incisions in gravidas with a singleton or twin pregnancy undergoing cesarean section under 28 weeks, and to assess factors that result in delivery complications, defined as either intraoperative dystocia or hysterotomy extension. We hypothesized that compared to those with non-cephalic presentations, gravidas with a presenting fetus in cephalic presentation would have higher rates of low-transverse cesarean section, and reduced rates of delivery complications with low-transverse hysterotomy. METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort chart analysis of 128 gravidas between 23 0/7 and 27 6/7 weeks undergoing cesarean section at a single academic institution between August 2010 and December 2022. Data was abstracted for factors that might influence the decision for hysterotomy incision type, as well as for documentation of difficulty with delivery of the fetus or need for hysterotomy extension to affect delivery. RESULTS: There was a total of 128 subjects, 113 with a singleton gestation and 15 with twins. The presenting fetus was in cephalic presentation in 43 (33.6%), breech presentation in 71 (55.5%), transverse/oblique lie in 13 (10.2%), and not documented in 1 (0.8%). Sixty-eight (53.1%) had a low-transverse cesarean section (LTCS), 53 (41.4%) had a Classical, 5 (3.9%) had a low-vertical hysterotomy and 2 (1.6%) had a mid-transverse incision. There was a significantly higher rate of LTCS among gravidas with the presenting fetus in cephalic presentation (30/43, 69.8%) compared to those with breech (31/71, 43.7%) or transverse/oblique presentations (7/13, 53.8%), p = .03. No other significant associations were related to hysterotomy incision, including nulliparity, racially or ethnically minoritized status, plurality, indication for cesarean delivery, or pre-cesarean labor. Twenty (15.6%) subjects experienced either an intraoperative dystocia or hysterotomy extension. For the entire cohort, there was a greater median cervical dilatation in those with delivery complications (4.0 cm, IQR .5 - 10 cm) compared to those without complications (1.5, IQR 0 - 4.0), p = .03, but no significant association between delivery complications and fetal presentation, hysterotomy type, plurality, or other demographic/obstetrical factors. However, among gravidas undergoing low-transverse cesarean section, only 2/30 (6.7%) with cephalic presentations had a delivery complication, compared to 9/31 (29.0%) with breech presentations and 3/7 (42.9%) with a transverse/oblique lie, p = .03. CONCLUSION: In pregnancies under 28 weeks, the performance of a low-transverse cesarean section was significantly associated only with presentation of the presenting fetus. Among those with cephalic presentations, the rate of intrapartum dystocia or hysterotomy extension was low after a low-transverse hysterotomy, suggesting that in this subgroup, a low-transverse cesarean section should be considered.

External Validation of a Prediction Model for External Cephalic Version Success.

External cephalic version (ECV) success correlates with numerous maternal and pregnancy factors. A prior study developed an ECV success prediction model based on body mass index, parity, placental location, and fetal presentation. We performed external validation of this model using a retrospective cohort of ECV procedures from a separate institution between July 2016 and December 2021. Four hundred thirty-four ECV procedures were performed, with a 44.4% success rate (95% CI 39.8-49.2%), which was similar to the derivation cohort (40.6%, 95% CI 37.7-43.5%, P =.16). There were significant differences in patients and practices between cohorts, including the rate of neuraxial anesthesia (83.5% derivation cohort vs 10.4% our cohort, P <.001). The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) was 0.70 (95% CI 0.65-0.75), which was similar to that in the derivation cohort (AUROC 0.67, 95% CI 0.63-0.70). These results suggest the published ECV prediction model's performance is generalizable outside the original study institution.

Breech delivery in low-income settings: A systematic review of perinatal and maternal outcomes in vaginal versus cesarean breech deliveries.

Most studies comparing vaginal breech delivery (VBD) with cesarean breech delivery (CBD) have been conducted in high-income settings. It is uncertain whether these results are applicable in a low-income setting. To assess the neonatal and maternal mortality and morbidity for singleton VBD compared to CBD in low- and lower-middle-income settings,the PubMed database was searched from January 1, 2000, to January 23, 2020 (updated April 21, 2021). Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and non-RCTs comparing singleton VBD with singleton CBD in low- and lower-middle-income settings reporting infant mortality were selected. Two authors independently assessed papers for eligibility and risk of bias. The primary outcome was relative risk of perinatal mortality. Meta-analysis was conducted on applicable outcomes. Eight studies (one RCT, seven observational) (12 510 deliveries) were included. VBD increased perinatal mortality (relative risk [RR] 2.67, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.82-3.91; one RCT, five observational studies, 3289 women) and risk of 5-minute Apgar score below 7 (RR 3.91, 95% CI 1.90-8.04; three observational studies, 430 women) compared to CBD. There was a higher risk of hospitalization and postpartum bleeding in CBD. Most of the studies were deemed to have moderate or serious risk of bias. CBD decreases risk of perinatal mortality but increases risk of bleeding and hospitalization.

Comparing forces on the fetal neck in breech delivery in lithotomy versus all-fours position: a simulation model.

PURPOSE: To measure forces applied to the fetal neck, in a simulation model for breech delivery, in both lithotomy versus all-fours position. METHODS: We used a Laerdal SimMom simulator and a Birthing Baby together with PROMPT Flex Software. The descent of the fetus was accomplished using the Automatic Delivery Module 2. The baby was always in breech position; the SimMom in either all-fours or lithotomy positions. Sensors were located inside the fetal neck region to simulate forces applied to the plexus. RESULTS: The lowest force on the fetal neck region was recorded for the delivery in all-fours position without further maneuvers (mean force 58.70 Newton, standard deviation 2.54 N). As weight was added to the baby, the force increased (i.e. + 500 g, mean force 71.8 N, SD 3.08 N, p < 0.001). Delivery in lithotomy position resulted in a mean force of 81.56 N (SD 19.55 N). The force significantly increased in case of delivery of the head without assistance from contractions (mean force 127.93 N, SD 23.10 N). In all-fours position, the delivery of the fetal head from pelvic floor level without contractions (Frank's Nudge maneuver) resulted in a mean force of 118.45 N (SD 15.48 N, p = 0.02). Maneuvers for shoulder dystocia (the inverted type that can occur during breech delivery) led to significantly higher mean forces independent from birthing positions. CONCLUSION: Breech delivery in all-fours position was associated with the lowest force acting on the fetal neck in our simulation model.

Maternal and fetal risks of planned vaginal breech delivery vs planned caesarean section for term breech birth: A systematic review and meta-analysis.

Background: Breech presentation delivery approach is a controversial issue in obstetrics. How to cope with breech delivery (vaginal or C-section) has been discussed to find the safest in terms of morbidity. The aim of this study was to assess the risks of foetal and maternal mortality and perinatal morbidity associated with vaginal delivery against elective caesarean in breech presentations, as reported in observational studies. Methods: Studies assessing perinatal morbidity and mortality associated with breech presentations births. Cochrane, Medline, Scopus, Embase, Web of Science, and Cuiden databases were consulted. This protocol was registered in PROSPERO CRD42020197598. Selection criteria were: years between 2010 and 2020, in English language, and full-term gestation (37-42 weeks). The methodological quality of the eligible articles was assessed according to the Newcastle-Ottawa scale. Meta-analyses were performed to study each parameter related to neonatal mortality and maternal morbidity. Results: The meta-analysis included 94 285 births with breech presentation. The relative risk of perinatal mortality was 5.48 (95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.61-11.51) times higher in the vaginal delivery group, 4.12 (95% CI = 2.46-6.89) for birth trauma and 3.33 (95% CI = 1.95-5.67) for Apgar results. Maternal morbidity showed a relative risk 0.30 (95% CI = 0.13-0.67) times higher in the planned caesarean group. Conclusions: An increment in the risk of perinatal mortality, birth trauma, and Apgar lower than 7 was identified in planned vaginal delivery. However, the risk of severe maternal morbidity because of complications of a planned caesarean was slightly higher.

Is vaginal delivery of a breech second twin safe? A comparison between delivery of vertex and non-vertex second twins.

AIM: The aim of this study was to determine the safety of vaginal delivery with a non-vertex second twin when the first twin is in the vertex presentation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A retrospective analysis was undertaken, utilizing a cohort of twin gestations in which the presenting twin was vertex and the second twin was either vertex (group A) or non-vertex (group B). We assessed maternal and neonatal outcomes including emergency cesarean delivery, 5-minute Apgar scores, cord arterial pH, NICU admissions, and adverse maternal postpartum outcomes including ICU admissions and the requirement of blood products. RESULTS: Six hundred and eighty-five women with a vertex presenting twin were admitted to labor and delivery. Three hundred and ninety-five women were included in group A (vertex/vertex) and 290 were included in group B (vertex/non-vertex). No statistically significant differences were found in the 5-minute Apgar scores, cord arterial pH, or in the rates of emergency cesarean deliveries, NICU admission, maternal blood transfusion or ICU admissions. CONCLUSION: In conclusion, vaginal delivery of a breech second twin when the presenting twin is vertex was found as safe as vaginal delivery of twins in the vertex/vertex presentation.

External cephalic version in the outpatient clinic.

The continuous increase in the rates of cesarean section worldwide is concerning. Breech presentation is one of the major indications for cesarean section in most countries. External cephalic version (ECV) can reduce cesarean rates by approximately two-thirds in term breech pregnancies. After introduction of ultrasonography and cardiotocography before and after the procedure, ECV has become much safer. As a result, over-night fasting, intravenous access, and preoperative laboratory tests are no longer recommended as the patient's risk of requiring emergency cesarean section is very low. We have been running the largest ECV clinic in South Korea since 2008, and ECV trials in the outpatient clinic were started in 2015. We want to share our experiences running the ECV clinic for 15 years managing more than 2000 patients.

Maternal and neonatal outcomes in the following delivery after previous preterm caesarean breech birth: a national cohort study.

The objective of this retrospective, nationwide Finnish population-based cohort study was to determine whether there is an association between preterm caesarean breech delivery in the first pregnancy and maternal and neonatal morbidity in the subsequent pregnancy and delivery. We identified all singleton preterm breech birth in Finland from 2000 to 2017 (n = 1259) and constructed a data set of the first two deliveries for these women. We compared outcomes of the following pregnancy and delivery among women with a previous preterm caesarean breech section with the outcomes of women with one previous vaginal preterm breech birth. p Value, odds ratio, and adjusted odds ratio were calculated. Neonates of women with a previous caesarean preterm breech delivery had an increased risk for arterial umbilical cord pH below seven (1.2% versus 0%; p value .024) and a higher rate of neonatal intensive care unit admission [22.9% versus 15% adjusted OR 1.57 (1.13-2.18); p value <.001]. The women with a previous caesarean section had a higher rate of uterine rupture (2.3% versus 0%; p value .001). They were also more likely in the subsequent pregnancy to have a planned caesarean section [19.9% versus 4% adjusted OR 8.55 (4.58-15.95), an emergency caesarean section [21.5% versus 9.7% adjusted OR 2.16 (1.28-2.18)], or an instrumental vaginal delivery [9.3% versus 3.8% adjusted OR 2.38 (1.08-5.23)].IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Vaginal birth after caesarean section is generally known to be associated with a higher risk of maternal and neonatal morbidity.What do the results of this study add? The following birth after previous caesarean preterm breech section is associated with a higher rate of uterine rupture and with a higher rate neonatal admission to the neonatal intensive care unit and more often an arterial umbilical cord pH below seven regardless of the mode of the following delivery, compared to women with a subsequent delivery after a previous vaginal preterm breech birth.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? Our results must be considered when counselling patients regarding their first preterm breech delivery, as the selected method of delivery also affects the outcomes of subsequent pregnancies and deliveries.

Caesarean section rates: applying the modified ten-group Robson classification in an Australian tertiary hospital.

The aim of this study was to determine the main contributors to caesarean section (CS) rates at an Australian tertiary hospital. We conducted a retrospective review of women who delivered in an Australian tertiary hospital between 2014 and 2017. Women were allocated according to a modified Robson Ten-Group Classification System and CS indications were collected in nulliparous women and women with previous CS. The largest contributor to the 35.7% overall CS rate was women with a term cephalic infant and a previous CS (31.5% relative CS rate) and the most common indication was repeat CS. The group CS rate in nulliparous women with a cephalic term infant was higher when labour was induced compared to occurring spontaneously (36.6% and 18.1% respectively). The primary CS indication for these women was labour dystocia and maternal request was the most common CS indication for nulliparous women with a pre-labour CS.IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? Significantly increasing caesarean section (CS) rates continue to prompt concern due to the associated neonatal and maternal risks. The World Health Organisation have endorsed the Robson Ten-Group Classification System to identify and analyse CS rate contributors.What do the results of this study add? We have used the modified Robson Ten-Group Classification System to identify that women with cephalic term infants who are nulliparous or who have had a previous CS are the largest contributors to overall CS rates. CS rates were higher in these nulliparous women if labour was induced compared to occurring spontaneously and the primary CS indication was labour dystocia. In nulliparous women with a CS prior to labour the most common CS indication was maternal request. Majority of women with a previous CS elected for a repeat CS.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice? Future efforts should focus on minimising repeat CS in multiparous women and primary CS in nulliparous women. This may be achieved by redefining the definition of labour dystocia, exploring maternal request CS reasoning and critically evaluating induction timing and indication. Appropriately promoting a trial of labour in women with a previous CS in suitable candidates may reduce repeat CS incidence.

Incidental intra-operative finding of a rare uterine fusion abnormality in a primigravida with breech presentation at term: A case report.

Uterine malformations are often asymptomatic but can be associated with a wide range of reproductive problems. We report a case of uterine fusion defect diagnosed intra-operatively in a 20-year-old primigravida who had elective caesarean section at term on account of breech presentation at term. Intraoperative findings included a cone-shaped uterus with narrowed fundus and the appendages emerging at the fundus and lower uterine segment on the right and left respectively. This is a rare fusion defect and makes a case for review of the existing uterine malformation classification systems, to make it all encompassing.

External cephalic version at 38 weeks' gestation at a specialized German single center.

INTRODUCTION: Cesarean section (CS) rates are increasing worldwide. One constant indication is the breech presentation at term. By offering external cephalic version (ECV) and vaginal breech delivery CS rates can be further reduced. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to analyze the ECV at 38 weeks of gestation with the associate uptake rate, predicting factors, success rate, and complications at a tertiary healthcare provider in Germany specializing in vaginal breech delivery. METHODS: We conducted a prospective cohort study with retrospective data acquisition. All women with a singleton fetus in breech presentation presenting after 34 weeks of gestation for counseling between 2013 and 2017 were included. ECV impact factors were analyzed using logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 1,598 women presented for breech birth planning. ECV was performed on 353 patients. The overall success rate was 22.4%. A later week of gestation (odds ratio [OR] 1.69), an abundant amniotic fluid index (AFI score) (OR 5.74), fundal (OR 3.78) and anterior (OR 0.39) placental location, and an oblique lie (OR 9.08) were significantly associated with successful ECV in our population. No major complications were observed. The overall vaginal delivery rates could be increased to approximately 14% with ECV. CONCLUSION: The demand for alternative birth modes other than CS for breech birth is high in the area of Frankfurt, Germany. Our study offers evidence of the safety of ECV at 38 weeks. Centers with expertise in vaginal breech delivery and ECV can reduce CS-rates. To further establish vaginal breech delivery and ECV as alternate options, the required knowledge and skill should be implemented in the revised curricula.

Clinical analysis of 40 cases of external cephalic version without anesthesia.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the success rate, complications, and success-related factors of external cephalic version (ECV) of singleton breech pregnancies after 37 gestational weeks without anesthesia. METHODS: We studied 40 singleton breech pregnancies in women who underwent ECV without anesthesia after 37 gestational weeks from October 2018 to March 2020. On the basis of success of ECV, the women were divided into two groups of the successful group and the failed group. Various factors were analyzed to determine those that affect the success of ECV. RESULTS: Of the 40 attempts of ECV, 24 (60.0%) were successful and 16 (40.0%) failed. With regard to success-related factors, parity was significantly different between the two groups, with more multiparous women in the successful group than in the failed group. However, none of the other factors were significantly different between the groups. Fetal outcome was good in all of the cases. Ultimately, 3 cesarean sections were performed in the successful group and 16 were performed in the failed group. CONCLUSIONS: ECV of breech presentation after the 37th week of pregnancy without anesthesia is an effective and relatively safe alternative, and can effectively reduce the cesarean section rate.

Twin reversed arterial perfusion syndrome in a monochorionic monoamniotic twin pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE: Twin-Reversed Arterial Perfusion (TRAP) sequence is a rare complication of monochorionic multiple gestation. Conservative management should be considered if there is no poor prognostic factor. CASE REPORT: This is a 35 year-old female with twin pregnancy with acardiac monster. Under the request of the patient, there was no intervention during the whole pregnancy. We keep regular and close sonography weekly follow up. There was no maternal complication and there was also no heart failure sign or polyhydramnios of the donor twin. Minimal blood flow was noted at the anastomotic vessels under the sonography at late gestational age. Due to breech presentation, cesarean section was performed at gestational age 37 + 1/7 weeks. She delivers a healthy baby smoothly. CONCLUSION: Antenatal sonography is an important tool to evaluate the fetus status. Under special condition, term pregnancy is still possible without any treatment. CASE REPORT: Twin reversed arterial perfusion syndrome in a monochorionic monoamniotic twin pregnancy.

Induction of labor in breech presentations - a retrospective cohort study.

INTRODUCTION: There is limited evidence on the safety and outcome of induction of breech labor. In this study, we aimed to compare the outcomes of spontaneous and induced breech deliveries and to describe variations in induction rates. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study comprising 1054 singleton live fetuses in breech presentation at Trondheim University Hospital from 2012 to 2019. The main outcome was intrapartum cesarean section, and secondary outcomes were postpartum hemorrhage, anal sphincter ruptures, Apgar scores, pH in the umbilical artery, and metabolic acidosis. All data were obtained from the hospital birth journal. RESULTS: Induction of labor was performed in 127/606 (21.0%) women with planned vaginal birth. The frequency of intrapartum cesarean section was 48.0% for induced labor vs 45.7% for spontaneous labor (P = .64). We found no differences in the frequency of postpartum hemorrhage or anal sphincter ruptures between induced and spontaneous births. The median pH in the umbilical artery was significantly lower in neonates with induced labor compared with neonates with spontaneous labor (7.22 vs 7.25; P = .02). The frequency of pH <7.05 was 7.0% for induced labor vs 2.9% (P = .05) for spontaneous labor, but the frequency of pH <7.0 was not significantly different: 2.6% vs 0.8% (P = .14), respectively. Three neonates with planned vaginal birth had metabolic acidosis: two with spontaneous labors and one with induced labor. Three fetuses with planned vaginal birth died during labor: two with spontaneous onset of labor and one with induced labor. All three were extremely preterm: two were delivered in week 23 and one in week 25. We did not observe any significant trend in induction rates in either parous or nulliparous women. CONCLUSIONS: The induction rates were stable during the study period. We did not observe any significant difference in intrapartum cesarean section rates, in the frequency of pH <7.0 in the umbilical artery, or in the frequency of metabolic acidosis when comparing induced and spontaneous breech deliveries.

External cephalic version: Predictors of success and influence on caesarean rates.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the success rate of external cephalic version, predictive factors for success of this maneuver and to examine how it affects mode of delivery, pregnancy and neonatal outcome rates. STUDY DESIGN: Retrospective cross-sectional study performed in a tertiary care university hospital between January 2002 and June 2018. A total of 324 ECVs were performed in 321 pregnancies. Maternal and ultrasound data, procedure-related factors, birth characteristics and neonatal data were collected. Absolute and relative frequencies were used for descriptive analysis and the chi-square test for comparative analysis. Odds ratios with 95 % confidence intervals were calculated. RESULTS: The overall success rate of the procedure was 33,3%. Multiparity, transverse lie, unengaged breech presentation, low body mass index, soft uterus and palpable fetal head were independent risk factors for success. No statistically significant association was found with other variables. Routine use of ECV allowed a reduction in cesarean delivery rates for breech presentation, with no increase in maternal or neonatal morbidity. Operative delivery rates after successful ECV were similar to those of the general population. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: Despite a relatively low overall success rate, routine use of ECV can result in reduced cesarean delivery rates with similar perinatal outcomes. Conveyed information on the success rate of ECV can be adapted to individual patient characteristics.

Reverse Breech Extraction Vs Head Pushing For Delivery Of Deeply Impacted Fetal Head In Emergency Caesarean Section.

BACKGROUND: Obstructed labour is considered a negligible component of maternal mortality in developed countries but it is a major mortality burden in developing countries. This study was done to compare maternal outcome associated with reverse breech extraction and vaginal head pushing method for the deeply impacted foetal head in emergency caesarean section. METHODS: It was done at the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Military Hospital, Rawalpindi from May to Nov 2014. A total of 110 patients meeting our inclusion criteria were randomly divided into two groups, i.e., Group A (delivered by reverse breech extraction) and Group B (delivered by hand push method). Patient demographic data and maternal outcomes were compared among both groups. Data was analysed using SPSS-21. RESULTS: Mean age of the patients was 27.51±6.60 and 27.91±6.85 years in Group-A and B respectively with an age range of 15-45 years while the mean gestational age was 39.93±0.87 weeks and 40.05±0.62 weeks in Group A and B respectively. 27 (49.1%) from Group A and 26 (47.3%) from Group B were primigravida. Extension of uterine incision was observed in 5 (9.1%) patients of group-A and 25 (45.5%) patients of group-B. Mean operative duration was 42.47±3.00 min and 51.73±2.14 min in Group A and B respectively. More blood loss was observed in Group-B when compared with Group-A (1542.36±188.27 ml vs 1090.36±130.08 ml). A statistically significant difference was seen in both groups regarding maternal outcomes (p<0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Reverse breech extraction for delivery of deeply impacted foetal head during the emergency caesarean section is a safe and quick technique as compared to the push method.

Abdominal apoplexy during pregnancy.

We report a case of idiopathic spontaneous intraperitoneal haemorrhage (ISIH) in a 31-year-old patient at 37 weeks gestation in her second pregnancy. The patient presented to the labour ward with abdominal pain and uterine contractions. The initial complain was of sudden onset, severe sharp pain in left iliac fossa. She started having uterine contractions within 30 min of her presentation. Examination confirmed early labour with a footling breech presentation. Urgent caesarean section was performed that confirmed peritoneal bleeding of unknown origin with safe delivery of the baby. Mother and baby were safely discharged on day 5. 'Abdominal apoplexy' (ISIH), is a rare obstetric emergency with increased risk of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality. With various clinical presentations as a possibility, diagnosis is challenging. High index of suspicion with prompt management of suspected cases can be pivotal life saving measure for the fetus and mother.

Vaginal Delivery After External Cephalic Version in Patients With a Previous Cesarean Delivery: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the rate of vaginal delivery after successful external cephalic version for breech presentation in women with compared with without a previous cesarean birth. DATA SOURCES: We searched MEDLINE, Scopus, EMBASE, CINAHL, ClinicalTrials.gov, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials for studies comparing the mode of delivery after successful external cephalic version in women with and without a previous cesarean birth. METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION: Two reviewers independently identified studies, extracted data, and evaluated study quality. The rate of vaginal delivery after successful external cephalic version in women with and without a previous cesarean birth was compared, and odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs were estimated. TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS: Six cohort studies and two case-control studies, reporting on 14,515 women were identified. The median point prevalence of a successful external cephalic version was 74% (interquartile range 63-81%) in women with a previous cesarean birth compared with 69% (interquartile range 64-83%) in women without a previous cesarean birth. The overall success rate of external cephalic version in women with a previous cesarean birth was similar compared with women without a previous cesarean birth (pooled OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.61-1.15). The median point prevalence of a vaginal delivery was 75% (interquartile range 61-84%) in women with a previous cesarean birth compared with 92% (interquartile range 85-95%) in women without a previous cesarean birth after a successful external cephalic version. The overall success rate of a vaginal delivery in women with a previous cesarean birth was less compared with women without a previous cesarean birth (pooled OR 0.26, 95% CI 0.14-0.50). A planned subgroup analysis on studies that included only multiparous women in the control group (parity one or greater) noted the overall success rate of external cephalic version in women with a previous cesarean birth 76% (853/1,123) was lower compared with multiparous women without a previous cesarean birth 84% (9,911/11,855) (pooled OR 0.70, 95% CI 0.54-0.89, I 37%). The overall success rate of a vaginal delivery in women with a previous cesarean birth 83% (666/806) was less compared with women without a previous cesarean birth 97% (9,449/9,746) (pooled OR 0.21, 95% CI 0.12-0.39, I 73%). CONCLUSION: Women with previous cesarean birth have similar rates of successful external cephalic version when compared with women without a cesarean birth. Although the rate of vaginal delivery is lower, the majority of patients have a successful vaginal birth after cesarean. SYSTEMATIC REVIEW REGISTRATION: PROSPERO, CRD42020160145.

Applying the Robson classification to routine facility data to understand the Caesarean section practice in conflict settings of South Kivu, eastern DR Congo.

INTRODUCTION: Sub-Saharan Africa has low Caesarean (CS) levels, despite a global increase in CS use. In conflict settings, the pattern of CS use is unclear because of scanty data. We aimed to examine the opportunity of using routine facility data to describe the CS use in conflict settings. METHODS: We conducted a facility-based cross-sectional study in 8 health zones (HZ) of South Kivu province in eastern DR Congo. We reviewed patient hospital records, maternity registers and operative protocol books, from January to December 2018. Data on direct conflict fatalities were obtained from the Uppsala Conflict Data Program. Based on conflict intensity and chronicity (expressed as a 6-year cumulative conflict death rate), HZ were classified as unstable (higher conflict death rate), intermediate and stable (lower conflict death rate). To describe the Caesarean section practice, we used the Robson classification system. Based on parity, history of previous CS, onset of labour, foetal lie and presentation, number of neonates and gestational age, the Robson classification categorises deliveries into 10 mutually exclusive groups. We performed a descriptive analysis of the relative contribution of each Robson group to the overall CS rate in the conflict stratum. RESULTS: Among the 29,600 deliveries reported by health facilities, 5,520 (18.6%) were by CS; 5,325 (96.5%) records were reviewed, of which 2,883 (54.1%) could be classified. The overall estimated population CS rate was 6.9%. The proportion of health facility deliveries that occurred in secondary hospitals was much smaller in unstable health zones (22.4%) than in intermediate (40.25) or stable health zones (43.0%). Robson groups 5 (previous CS, single cephalic, ≥ 37 weeks), 1 (nulliparous, single cephalic, ≥ 37 weeks, spontaneous labour) and 3 (multiparous, no previous CS, single cephalic, ≥ 37 weeks, spontaneous labour) were the leading contributors to the overall CS rate; and represented 75% of all CS deliveries. In unstable zones, previous CS (27.1%) and abnormal position of the fetus (breech, transverse lie, 3.3%) were much less frequent than in unstable and intermediate (44.3% and 6.0% respectively) and stable (46.7%and 6.2% respectively). Premature delivery and multiple pregnancy were more prominent Robson groups in unstable zones. CONCLUSION: In South Kivu province, conflict exposure is linked with an uneven estimated CS rate at HZ level with at high-risks women in conflict affected settings likely to have lower access to CS compared to low-risk mothers in stable health zones.