Evaluation of placenta and fetal lung using shear wave elastography in gestational diabetes mellitus: An innovative approach.

PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate placental and fetal lung stiffness in pregnant women with and without gestational diabetes, considering the well-established delay in fetal lung maturation associated with gestational diabetes. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This prospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary center and included pregnant women who underwent a 75-gram oral glucose tolerance test between 24-28 weeks of gestation. Elastography measurements were performed using point shear wave elastography (pSWE). RESULTS: The study included 60 pregnant women diagnosed with gestational diabetes and 60 pregnant women in the control group. SWE velocity of peripheral placenta, central placenta, and lung were higher in the gestational diabetes group compared to the control group. Furthermore, SWE velocity of peripheral placenta, central placenta, and lung were higher in newborns with neonatal respiratory morbidity. Based on the ROC analysis of gestational diabetes patients the AUC for lung SWE velocity was 0.88 (cut-off 12.4 kPa, 95% CI: 0.77-0.99, p<0.001) with a sensitivity of 71.4% and specificity of 95.6% in predicting neonatal respiratory morbidity. CONCLUSION: Fetal placental and lung stiffness increase in fetuses of pregnant women with diabetes. Moreover, higher fetal lung stiffness during the fetal period is associated with increased neonatal respiratory morbidity. Zweck: Diese Studie zielt darauf ab, die Lungensteifheit der Plazenta und des Fötus bei schwangeren Frauen mit und ohne Schwangerschaftsdiabetes zu untersuchen, wobei die bekannte Verzögerung der fetalen Lungenreifung im Zusammenhang mit Schwangerschaftsdiabetes berücksichtigt wird. Materialien und Methoden: Diese prospektive Kohortenstudie wurde an einem tertiären Zentrum durchgeführt und umfasste schwangere Frauen, die sich zwischen der 24. und 28. Schwangerschaftswoche einem oralen 75-Gramm-Glukosetoleranztest unterzogen. Elastographiemessungen wurden mittels Punktscherwellenelastographie (pSWE) durchgeführt. Ergebnisse: Die Studie umfasste 60 schwangere Frauen mit diagnostiziertem Schwangerschaftsdiabetes und 60 schwangere Frauen in der Kontrollgruppe. Die SWE-Geschwindigkeit der peripheren Plazenta, der zentralen Plazenta und der Lunge war in der Gruppe mit Schwangerschaftsdiabetes höher als in der Kontrollgruppe. Darüber hinaus war die SWE-Geschwindigkeit der peripheren Plazenta, der zentralen Plazenta und der Lunge bei Neugeborenen mit neonataler respiratorischer Morbidität höher. Basierend auf der ROC-Analyse von Patienten mit Schwangerschaftsdiabetes betrug die AUC für die Lungen-SWE-Geschwindigkeit 0,88 (Grenzwert 12,4 kPa, 95 %-KI: 0,77-0,99, p < 0,001) mit einer Sensitivität von 71,4 % und einer Spezifität von 95,6 % bei der Vorhersage neonataler Erkrankungen Atemwegsmorbidität. Schlussfolgerung: Die Steifheit der fetalen Plazenta und der Lunge nimmt bei Feten schwangerer Frauen mit Diabetes zu. Darüber hinaus ist eine höhere fetale Lungensteifheit während der Fetalperiode mit einer erhöhten Atemwegsmorbidität bei Neugeborenen verbunden.

Third-trimester fetal pancreas imaging in uncomplicated pregnancies and association with pregnancy outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To examine third-trimester sonographic imaging of the fetal pancreas in uncomplicated pregnancies and its association with pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: This was a prospective cohort study including 274 pregnant women. Uncomplicated pregnancies in the third trimester (28-40 weeks) were included in the study. Maternal chronic disease, pregnancy-related disorders such as hypertension, diabetes, cholestasis, smoking, and fetal abnormalities were determined as exclusion criteria. Sonographic fetal pancreatic measurement and echogenicity were evaluated in all participants. For intra-observer reliability, each participant's fetal pancreatic circumference was measured two times. The echogenicity of the pancreas was compared with the liver and ribs and classified as grade 1, 2, and 3. The pregnancy outcomes of all participants were obtained from the hospital digital registration system. RESULTS: The average fetal pancreatic circumference in the third trimester was 70.7 ± 0.6 mm (median, 70 [44-100.7]), with high intra-observer agreement (ICC 0.996 [0.995; 0.997]). A significant positive correlation was found between pancreatic circumference, body mass index (BMI), gestational age, and birth weight. Pancreatic measurements were significantly higher in composite adverse outcomes cases that included at least one of respiratory distress syndrome, hyperbilirubinemia, neonatal pneumonia, infection, and sepsis (p < 0.001). No relationship was found between pancreatic echogenicity and perinatal outcomes. CONCLUSION: Fetal pancreas size was positively correlated with gestational age, BMI, and birth weight, and increased fetal pancreas size was associated with composite adverse neonatal outcomes.

Association between fetal fraction of cell-free DNA and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

PURPOSE: To determine the association between fetal fraction (FF) levels in cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) testing and adverse pregnancy outcomes. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study, conducted at a single center, involved 2063 pregnant women with normal 1st and 2nd trimester non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) results between 2016 and 2021. Pregnancy outcomes were examined by determining the < 4% and < 5th percentile (3.6%) cut-off values for low fetal fraction (LFF). Pregnancy outcomes were also examined by dividing the FF into population-based quartiles. Adverse pregnancy outcomes were pregnancy-induced hypertensive diseases (PIHD), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), spontaneous preterm birth (PTB), intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP), small for gestational age (SGA), large for gestational age (LGA), low birth weight (LBW), macrosomia, and 1st and 5th minutes low APGAR scores (< 7). RESULTS: PIHD was significantly higher in LFF (< 4% and < 5th percentile) cases (p = 0.015 and p < 0.001, respectively). However, in population-based quartiles of FF, PIHD did not differ significantly between groups. Composite adverse maternal outcomes were significantly higher in the FF < 4% group (p = 0.042). When analyzes were adjusted for maternal age, BMI, and gestational age at NIPT, significance was maintained at < 4%, < 5th percentile LFF for PIHD, and < 4% LFF for composite adverse maternal outcomes. However, there was no significant relationship between LFF with GDM, ICP and PTB. Additionally, there was no significant association between low APGAR scores, SGA, LGA, LBW, macrosomia, and LFF concerning neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSION: Our study showed that LFF in pregnant women with normal NIPT results may be a predictor of subsequent PIHD.

Indications, risk factors, and outcomes of emergency peripartum hysterectomy: A 7-year retrospective study at a tertiary center in Turkey.

Objective: To determine the incidence, indications, the risk factors, complications, maternal morbidity and mortality of emergency peripartum hysterectomy (EPH), and perinatal outcomes at a tertiary hospital, Turkey. Methods: We analyzed 71 cases of EPH from 2012 to 2019 at a tertiary hospital in a retrospective study. There were 142 control patients. Results: There were 71 EPH out of 69,504 deliveries, for an overall incidence of 1.02 per 1000 births. The main indication for peripartum hysterectomy was abnormal placentation (67.6%), followed by uterine atony (28.1%), and uterine rupture (4.2%). Cesarean section (CS) and previous CS are major risk indicators for EPH. Other risk indicators are advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years) and multiparity. All patients with abnormal placentation had a previous CS. 93% of EPH were performed during and/or after CS, and 7% after vaginal delivery. 69% of EPH were made in total and 31% were subtotal. The three most common maternal morbidity included: wound infection and febrile morbidity (26.7%), bladder injury (16.9%), and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (11.2%). There were no maternal deaths but perinatal mortality was 4%. Conclusion: The most common indication for EPH was abnormal placentation. Also, CS and previous CS are major risk factors of EPH. Other risk factors for EPH are advanced maternal age (≥ 35 years) and multiparity. Moreover, all unnecessary CS should be avoided.

Modified myocardial performance index for evaluation of fetal heart function and perinatal outcomes in intrahepatic pregnancy cholestasis.

This study aims to evaluate cardiac function in cases of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) and compare results with those from healthy controls using the fetal left ventricular modified myocardial performance index (LMPI) and E-wave/A-wave peak velocities (E/A ratio). Moreover, the association between LMPI values, total bile acid (TBA) levels, fetal Doppler measurements, and adverse neonatal outcomes was evaluated. A prospective cross-sectional study of 120 pregnant women was conducted, with 60 having ICP and the other 60 serving as controls. Doppler ultrasound and two-dimensional gray-scale fetal echocardiography were used to calculate the LMPI values and E/A ratios, respectively. The association between LMPI values and TBA levels, fetal Doppler measurements, and adverse neonatal outcomes was evaluated. Fetal LMPI values were significantly higher in the ICP group than in the control group (0.54 ± 0.54 vs. 0.44 ± 0.03; p < 0.001), but the E/A ratio was similar in both groups (0.69 ± 0.10 vs. 0.66 ± 0.14; p = 0.203). TBA levels were positively and significantly correlated with LMPI values (r = 0.546, p < 0.01); however, no significant correlation was found between umbilical arterial pulsatility index values and LMPI values (r = 0.071, p > 0.01). LMPI values were not associated with adverse neonatal outcomes in ICP cases. Fetal cardiac function (LMPI) is associated with increased bile acid levels in ICP. However, because it was not associated with adverse neonatal outcomes in ICP cases, the clinical significance of this finding is unclear. Further studies are required to evaluate the implications of increased LMPI.

¿Podría contribuir la resonancia magnética a detectar la ventriculomegalia fetal aislada aparte de otras anormalidades?

Objetivo. Determinar el papel de la resonancia magnética (RM) cerebral en fetos que presentan ventriculomegalia aislada (VMA) en la evaluación ecográfica del cerebro fetal. Métodos. Se evaluaron retrospectivamente los hallazgos por ecografía y RM de 197 fetos diagnosticados con VMA entre noviembre de 2018 y noviembre de 2020. Se excluyeron los fetos con cariotipos anormales, anomalías adicionales o etiologías relacionadas a ventriculomegalia. Se comparó los resultados de ecografía y RM tanto en términos de medidas ventriculares medias como de grado de VMA. Resultados. Las mediciones de la RM fueron significativamente mayores en la VMA leve (10,33±0,38 mm frente a 11,11±0,51 mm, p<0,001) en comparación con la ecografía. En la VMA leve, la RM midió los ventrículos más anchos que la ecografía, con una diferencia media de 0,78 mm. No hubo diferencias significativas en las mediciones por ecografía y RM en cuanto a los valores medios de la VMA moderada y grave. Hubo buena concordancia entre la ecografía y la RM en la detección de la gravedad de la VMA derecha, izquierda y la media (Κ=0,265, Κ=0,324 y Κ=0,261, respectivamente). Los análisis de regresión lineal revelaron una relación estadísticamente significativa entre las mediciones de ecografía y RM de la VMA derecha, izquierda y la media (p<0,001, p<0,001 y p<0,001, respectivamente). La RM mostró una concordancia perfecta con la ecografía en detectar la lateralidad de la VMA (Κ=1,0, p<0,001). Conclusiones. En fetos con VMA leve detectada por ecografía se debe considerar la evaluación por RM del cerebro fetal para un diagnóstico preciso. Este enfoque puede proporcionar una estrategia eficaz en el manejo prenatal y el asesoramiento de estos embarazos.

Objective: To assess the role of brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in fetuses presenting with isolated ventriculomegaly (IVM) in the ultrasound (US) evaluation of the fetal brain. Methods: US and MRI findings of 197 fetuses diagnosed with IVM between November 2018 and November 2020 were retrospectively evaluated. Fetuses with abnormal karyotypes, additional anomalies, or known etiologies for ventriculomegaly were excluded. US and MRI findings were compared both in terms of mean ventricular measurements and IVM grade. Results: MRI measurements were significantly higher in mild IMV (10.33 ± 0.38 mm vs. 11.11 ± 0.51 mm, p< 0.001) compared to US. In mild IVM, MRI measured ventricles larger than US with a mean difference of 0.78 mm. There was no significant difference in US and MRI measurements in terms of mean values in moderate and severe IVM. There was good agreement between US and MRI in detecting right, left and mean IVM severity (Κ=0.265, Κ=0.324, and Κ=0.261, respectively). Linear regression analyses revealed a statistically significant relationship between US and MRI measurements of the right, left, and mean IVM (p<0.001, p<0.001, and p<0.001, respectively). MRI showed perfect agreement with US in detecting IVM laterality (Κ=1.0, p<0.001). Conclusions: In fetuses with mild IVM detected by US, fetal brain MRI evaluation should be considered for accurate diagnosis. This approach may provide effective strategies in the antenatal management and counseling of these pregnancies.

Cesarean delivery rates based on time and indication using the Robson Ten-Group Classification System: Assessment at a Turkish tertiary center.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate increasing cesarean delivery (CD) rates, their causes, and changes over the years in a Turkish tertiary center using the Robson Ten-Group Classification System (RTGCS). METHODS: Data of deliveries involving birth weight of ≥500 g or ≥24 weeks of gestation period from 2013 to 2020 were retrospectively collected and classified from the hospital digital record system using obstetric concepts and parameters described in the RTGCS. RESULTS: The overall CD rate for all births (69051) from 2013 to 2020 was 55.5%. Groups 3, 5, and 1 were the most represented groups (29.1%, 23.9%, and 19.4%, respectively). The major contributors to the overall CD rate were Groups 5, 2, and 10 (23.8%, 9.9%, and 5.6%, respectively). Groups 2 and 4 (nullipara, multipara, single cephalic at term) had high CD rates associated with high rates of pre-labor CD (88.9% and 73.3%, respectively). The CD rate was 99.7% in Group 5, which showed recurrent CD, and 67.2% in Group 10. The overall CD rate was 60.8% in 2020 owing to the significant increase in the contributions by Groups 5, 8, and 10. The most common indication for CD was previous CD (46.1%), fetal distress (13.2%), and cephalopelvic disproportion (CPD) (8%). CONCLUSION: Groups 1, 2, 5, and 10 were the major contributors to the overall CD rate at this tertiary center. To reduce overall CD rates, policies that reduce primary CD and support vaginal delivery after cesarean section should be established.

Expected Versus Unexpected Delivery for Placenta Accreta Spectrum (PAS) Disorders with Same Team in Single Tertiary Center.

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the maternal and neonatal outcomes of expected and unexpected pathologically proven placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) cases in a single multidisciplinary center. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This was a retrospective cohort study of 92 PAS cases from January 2011 until September 2021. Only cases with histopathologically invasive placentation were included in the study. The cases diagnosed at the time of delivery were defined as unexpected PAS (uPAS) and those diagnosed antenatally as expected PAS (ePAS). Maternal and neonatal outcomes of both groups were compared. RESULTS: Thirty-five (38%) of 92 cases were in the uPAS group. Placenta previa and high-grade PAS (percreata) were significantly higher in the ePAS group (p=0.028, p<0.001; respectively). The mean packed red blood cell transfusion was significantly higher in the uPAS group (p=0.030) but transfusions of other blood products were similar in the two groups. There was no significant difference in intraoperative complication rates between the two groups. Preterm delivery (<37 weeks) was significantly higher in the ePAS group (p<0.001), but there was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of adverse neonatal outcomes. CONCLUSIONS: Our single center data show that although ePAS cases include more highly invasive PAS cases, maternal hemorrhagic morbidity is lower than uPAS cases. Reducing maternal morbidity in PAS cases can be achieved by increasing antenatal diagnosis.

Asociación entre el hipotiroidismo subclínico de anticuerpos antiperoxidasa tiroidea negativos y los resultados perinatales adversos diagnosticados con diferentes criterios en el tercer trimestre del embarazo

Antecedentes. El efecto del hipotiroidismo subclínico (HSC) en los resultados perinatales adversos no está claro, y los valores de referencia de la hormona tiroestimulante (TSH) en el embarazo son controvertidos. Objetivo. Evaluar los efectos del HSC negativo para los anticuerpos de la peroxidasa tiroidea (TPOAbs) sobre los resultados perinatales según los diferentes valores de referencia de la TSH. Métodos. Un total de 554 mujeres embarazadas, incluyendo 509 eutiroideas y 45 gestantes hipotiroideas subclínicas (TSH > 3 mIU/L), fueron incluidas en este estudio prospectivo de casos y controles. Todas las gestantes estaban en el tercer trimestre y eran negativas a los TPOAbs. Las funciones tiroideas fueron evaluadas utilizando los valores de referencia específicos para el trimestre recomendados por el Colegio Americano de Obstetricia y Ginecología (ACOG) (TSH > 3 mIU/L) y la Asociación Americana de Tiroides (ATA) (TSH > 4 mIU/L). Resultados. La mortalidad neonatal en el hipotiroidismo subclínico con un límite superior de TSH de 4 mIU/L fue significativamente menor que en el grupo eutiroideo (2 (0,4%) frente a 1 (4,5%); p=0,009). No hubo diferencias significativas en resultados maternos y perinatales adversos en las gestantes con HSC y eutiroideas en ambos valores de referencia de la TSH. No hubo correlación significativa entre los valores de TSH y las semanas de parto de las gestantes con parto prematuro (r=0,169, p=0,146). Conclusiones. En este estudio, utilizando los diferentes valores basales de TSH recomendados por las directrices del ACOG de 2020 y de la ATA de 2017 en el tercer trimestre del embarazo para el diagnóstico de hipotiroidismo subclínico, no hubo una relación significativa entre los casos de hipotiroidismo subclínico con TPOAbs negativos y los resultados perinatales adversos.

Background: The effect of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) on adverse perinatal outcomes is unclear, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) reference values in pregnancy are controversial. Objective: To evaluate the effects of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAbs) negative SCH on perinatal outcomes according to the different TSH reference values. Methods: A total of 554 pregnant women, including 509 euthyroid and 45 subclinical hypothyroid (TSH > 3 mIU/L) pregnant women, were included in this prospective case-controlled study. All pregnant women were in the third trimester and were TPOAbs negative. Thyroid functions were evaluated using trimester-specific reference values recommended by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) (TSH > 3 mIU/L) and the American Thyroid Association (ATA) (TSH > 4 mIU/L) guidelines. Results: Neonatal mortality in subclinical hypothyroidism with a TSH upper limit of 4 mIU/L was significantly lower than in the euthyroid group (2 (0.4%) vs 1 (4.5%); p=0.009). There was no significant difference in terms of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in SCH and euthyroid pregnant women in both TSH reference values. There was no significant correlation between TSH values and delivery weeks of pregnant women with preterm delivery (r=0.169, p=0.146). Conclusions: In this study, using different baseline TSH values recommended by the 2020 ACOG and 2017 ATA guidelines in the third trimester of pregnancy for the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism, it was shown that there was no significant relationship between cases of subclinical hypothyroidism with negative TPOAbs and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Asociación de los niveles de ácidos biliares y hormonas tiroideas en la colestasis intrahepática del embarazo

La colestasis intrahepática del embarazo (CIE) conduce a resultados perinatales adversos y estos resultados se ven afectados por los niveles elevados de ácido biliar total (ABT). Los estudios han demostrado que las hormonas tiroideas regulan el metabolismo de los ácidos biliares. Sin embargo, pocos estudios han evaluado el papel de las hormonas tiroideas en la CIE. Objetivo: Evaluar la función tiroidea junto con los niveles de ABT en la CIE. Métodos. En este estudio retrospectivo, se evaluaron 252 mujeres embarazadas, incluyendo 126 CIE y 126 controles. Se determinaron los niveles de ABT, hormona estimulante de la tiroides (TSH) y tiroxina libre (fT4) del tercer trimestre de todas las embarazadas. Se examinó la correlación entre los niveles de ABT, fT4 y TSH. Además, se estudiaron los resultados perinatales de ambos grupos. Resultados. Los niveles de fT4 fueron significativamente mayores en la CIE. También hubo una correlación positiva entre los niveles de fT4 y ABT. Los niveles de TSH fueron similares en ambos grupos y no hubo una correlación significativa con los niveles de ABT. No hubo diferencias significativas entre los dos grupos en cuanto a enfermedades tiroideas en el tercer trimestre. Conclusiones. Un mayor nivel de fT4 se asoció a un mayor nivel de ABT y el nivel de fT4 se asoció a un mayor riesgo de CIE y a la gravedad de la CIE, pero el nivel de TSH no se asoció a un mayor riesgo de ABT y de CIE.

Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) leads to adverse perinatal outcomes and these outcomes are affected by high total bile acid (TBA) levels. Studies have shown that thyroid hormones regulate bile acid metabolism. However, few studies have evaluated the role of thyroid hormones in ICP. Objective: To evaluate thyroid function along with TBA levels in ICP. Methods: In this retrospective study, 252 pregnant women, including 126 ICP and 126 controls, were evaluated. Third trimester TBA, thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), and free thyroxine (fT4) levels of all pregnant women were assessed. Correlation between TBA and fT4, TSH levels were examined. In addition, the perinatal outcomes of both groups were determined. Results: fT4 levels were significantly higher in ICP. There was also a positive correlation between fT4 and TBA levels. TSH levels were similar in both groups and there was no significant correlation with TBA levels. There was no significant difference between the two groups in thyroid diseases in the third trimester. Conclusions: Higher fT4 level was associated with higher TBA level and fT4 level was associated with higher ICP risk and ICP severity, but TSH level was not associated with higher TBA and higher ICP risk.

Can sonographic imaging of the fetal pancreas predict perinatal outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus?

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate whether fetal pancreatic echogenicity and its measurements are associated with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and perinatal outcomes. METHODS: A prospective cohort study was conducted with 150 pregnant women with a singleton pregnancy. The study included pregnant women between 30 and 41 weeks with or without GDM. Fetal pancreatic circumference was measured using the free-hand tracking function. The echogenicity of the fetal pancreas was compared with the echogenicity of the liver and bone (ribs, spine) and classified as Grades 1, 2 and 3. The relationship between maternal characteristics and perinatal outcomes with fetal pancreas measurements and echogenicity was evaluated. RESULTS: Pregnant women with 75 GDM and 75 without GDM were included in the study. Mean fetal pancreas circumference measurements were significantly higher in pregnant women with GDM than in those without GDM (p=0.001). Hyperechogenic (Grade 3) fetal pancreas was significantly higher in pregnant women with GDM than in pregnant women without GDM, and there was a positive correlation between pancreatic echogenicity and HbA1c levels in pregnant women with GDM (r=0.631, p<0.01). There was a significant relationship between pancreatic echogenicity, measurements and adverse neonatal outcomes in pregnant women with GDM, and pancreas measurements were significantly higher in pregnant women with cesarean delivery. CONCLUSIONS: Fetal pancreatic echogenicity and measurements in pregnant women with GDM can give an idea about glucose regulation and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Role of Vitamin B12 and Vitamin D levels in intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy and correlation with total bile acid.

This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) and Vitamin D and B12 levels. The study was a retrospective, cross-sectional, case-control study that evaluated 92 ICP cases and 102 pregnant women without any additional disease. ICP cases were grouped as mild and severe according to their total bile acid (TBA) levels, and their relationship with Vitamin D and B12 levels and perinatal outcomes was evaluated. Vitamin D and B12 levels of the ICP group were significantly lower than those of the control group. There was a moderate negative correlation between TBA and Vitamin D levels and a low negative correlation between TBA and Vitamin B12 levels. Adverse neonatal outcomes were significantly higher in the severe ICP group than in the mild ICP group. IMPACT STATEMENTWhat is already known on this subject? The pathophysiology of ICP, which can lead to adverse perinatal outcomes, is not yet fully understood, and there is no preventive treatment.What do the results of this study add? This study showed that Vitamins B12 and D levels were low in women with ICP and that TBA levels were negatively correlated with Vitamin D and B12 levels.What are the implications of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research? This study may guide future studies in terms of explaining the etiopathogenesis of ICP and developing treatment options.

Effectiveness and perinatal outcomes of history-indicated, ultrasound-indicated and physical examination-indicated cerclage: a retrospective study.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effectiveness and perinatal outcomes of cerclage procedure according to indication. METHODS: The pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of the patients who underwent cerclage with the diagnosis of cervical insufficiency between January 2016 and December 2020 were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized into three groups: a history-indicated group, an ultrasound-indicated group and a physical examination-indicated group. RESULTS: Seventy-three patients who underwent cerclage were included in the study. Of these, 41 (56.2%) had history-indicated, 17 (23.3%) had ultrasound-indicated and 15 (20.5%) had physical examination-indicated cerclages. Compared to history- and ultrasound-indicated cerclage group, duration from cerclage to delivery (18.6 ± 6.9 weeks vs 17.8±5.9 weeks vs 11 ± 5.3 weeks, p = 0.003) was significantly lower and delivery < 28 weeks (9.8% vs 5.9% vs 33.3%, p = 0.042) and delivery < 34 weeks of gestation (26.8% vs 11.8% vs 60%, p = 0.009) were significantly higher in physical examination-indicated cerclage group. In physical examination-indicated cerclage, compared with history- and ultrasound-indicated cerclage low birth weight, low APGAR score, neonatal intensive care unit admission and neonatal mortality were higher, although not statistically significant (p > 0.05). CONCLUSION: Pregnant women who underwent physical examination-indicated cerclage had higher risks for preterm delivery < 28 weeks and < 34 weeks than history- and ultrasound-indicated cerclage.

Ischemia modified albumin levels in intrauterine growth restriction: levels are increased in fetal cord blood but not in maternal blood.

OBJECTIVES: In this study, our aim was to determine the differences between intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and normal birth weight fetuses in terms of ischemia modified albumin (IMA) levels. For this purpose, we measured ischemia modified albumin levels in the cord blood of fetuses and venous blood of mothers. MATERIAL AND METHODS: This study is a prospective study conducted at University of Health Sciences Tepecik Training and Research Hospital between January 2018 and December 2019. According to the inclusion/exclusion criteria, 227 patients were included in the study. Participants were divided into two groups according to the presence (patient group) or absence (control group) of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). In addition to routine parameters recorded during pregnancy, the IMA levels and Doppler USG findings of all participants were recorded. RESULTS: The mean cord blood serum IMA levels of the patient group were significantly elevated compared to controls (p = 0.038). Whereas mean maternal blood serum IMA levels were similar among groups (p = 0.453). The cord blood and mother blood serum IMA levels were not significantly different with regard to the presence or absence of perinatal asphyxia. CONCLUSIONS: In the literature, studies evaluating IMA levels in the cord and maternal blood of IUGR fetuses are limited. In IUGR patients, IMA level is expected to increase and in our study, IMA levels were significantly increased but the presence of oxidative stress has not been found to affect IMA levels.

How COVID-19 pandemic is changing the practice of prenatal screening and diagnosis?

OBJECTIVES: To evaluate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on prenatal screening and diagnostic tests. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study with pregnant women attending to the perinatology department of a tertiary referral center. The pre-COVID-19 period between 11 March 2019 and 10 March 2020 and COVID-19 period between 11 March 2020 and 10 March 2021 were evaluated. Both periods were compared in terms of outpatient visits, ultrasound examinations, prenatal screening and diagnostic tests. The correlation of deaths related to COVID-19 pandemic on these parameters was also assessed. RESULTS: A total of 38,918 patients were examined and 28,452 ultrasound examinations, 26,672 prenatal screening tests and 1,471 prenatal diagnostic tests were performed over two years. During COVID-19 pandemic, number of outpatient visits decreased by 25.2%, ultrasound examinations decreased by 44.2%, prenatal screening tests decreased by 36.2% and prenatal diagnostic tests decreased by 30.7%. Statistically significant correlation was not observed between deaths related to COVID-19 and outpatient visits (p=0.210), ultrasound examinations (p=0.265), prenatal screening (p=0.781) and diagnostic tests (p=0.158). Among indications of prenatal diagnostic tests, maternal anxiety was significantly higher in COVID-19 period (p=0.023). There was significant decrease in the detection of fetuses with trisomy 21 (p=0.047) and a significant increase in the detection of fetuses with Turner syndrome (p=0.017) during COVID-19 period. CONCLUSIONS: The COVID-19 pandemic has severely impacted antenatal care. Prenatal fetal screening and diagnosis was adversely affected by the pandemic in terms of detecting genetic and structural anomalies.

Surgical management and clinical follow-up of post-coital severe vulvar hematoma in a 14-year-old adolescent girl: A case presentation.

BACKGROUND: Vulvar hematoma is often puerperal. A case of non-puerperal vulvovaginal hematoma is rare in the literature. There is no consensus on the management of vulvovaginal hematoma. In this study, we discussed the approach to a rare case of non-puerperal vulvar hematoma. CASE: We present the case of a 14-year-old adolescent female with a severe vulvar non-obstetric hematoma that occurred after she had been illegally and voluntarily married. CONCLUSION: In conclusion; vulvar hematoma is the most common non-obstetric cause of perineal trauma and carries the risk of mortality by causing hypovolemic shock. The conservative approach is preferred for small and non-growing hematomas; however, surgical hematoma drainage is used for large and enlarging hematomas. Selective arterial embolization procedure is not common as the required equipment is not available in all healthcare facilities.

Effect of Co-twin Fetal Sex on Fetal Anthropometry and Birth Time in Twin Pregnancies.

OBJECTIVE: This study of twin deliveries aimed to examine the effect of fetal sex and fetal sex of the co-twin on fetal anthropometry and length of gestation. METHODS: Pregnancies were grouped as male/male, male/female, and female/female. Birth weight, head circumference, body length and delivery time of newborns were compared between unlike-sex and like-sex twin pregnancies. RESULTS: A total of 1028 pregnant women who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. Of these pregnancies, 32.6% (n = 335) were male/male, 33.4% (n = 343) were male/female, and 34.0% (n = 350) were female/female. The discordant (male/female) newborns had a higher total birth weight than concordant twins (P = 0.015). Compared with male newborns from male/female twin pregnancies, male newborns from male/male pregnancies were found to be 129 grams heavier, 0.7 cm longer, and had a 0.4 cm larger head circumference (P<0.001, P=0.023, and P = 0.039, respectively). Pregnancies with male/female fetuses had statistically significantly longer gestations than pregnancies with male/male and female/female fetuses (P = 0.003 and P = 0.004, respectively). The shortest mean gestation was observed in the male/male group. Male/male pregnancies had a 1.53 times higher risk of preterm delivery than male/female pregnancies and a 1.51 times higher risk than female/female pregnancies (OR 1.53; 95% CI 1.07-2.19 and OR 1.51; 95% CI 1.06-2.16, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that, in twin pregnancies, birth weight, head circumference, and body length are affected by the sex of the co-twin. Male sex is associated with shorter gestation and male/male twin pregnancies are at higher risk for preterm labour.

Are Syrian refugees at high risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes? A comparison study in a tertiary center in Turkey.

OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aim to compare obstetric and perinatal outcomes between Turkish citizens and Syrian refugees who applied to a tertiary center in Izmir. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Demographic characteristics, obstetric and neonatal outcomes of 8103 Syrian refugee pregnant women and 47 151 Turkish citizen pregnant women between January 2013 and December 2018 were retrospectively compared. Our primary aim was to compare the cesarean rates and obstetrical results between two groups and to decide antenatal care secondarily. RESULTS: Syrian refugee pregnant women are statistically younger (p < 0.001), mean pregnancy duration and mean birth weight is statistically lower (p < 0.001 and p < 0.001, respectively). Adolescent pregnancy rates, preterm birth rates and anemia are statistically higher in refugee group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). Primary cesarean section rates, combined and triple screening tests application rates, gestational diabetes screening rates are meaningfully lower in refugee group (p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, and p < 0.001, respectively). CONCLUSION: Syrian refugees are at risk for inadequate antenatal care, adolescent pregnancy, and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Therefore, care should be given to these risks during pregnancy and childbirth to Syrian refugees.

Single-incision midurethral sling shows less pain and similar success rate in a short-term follow-up compared to the transobturator tape method in the treatment of stress urinary incontinence.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the efficacy, complications, quality of life, and patient satisfaction rates in women treated for stress urinary incontinence (SUI) using the adjustable anchored single-incision midurethral sling (SIMS) and standard midurethral sling (MUS) procedures. MATERIAL AND METHODS: A total of 113 women between October 2012 and October 2016 underwent either the adjustable SIMS (n=54) or MUS (n=57) procedure. The postoperative pain profile was assessed using a 10-point visual analog scale at the fixed time-point quality of life and an additional postoperative 3rd week appointment. We asked our patients the following two questions to evaluate their satisfaction with surgery and their preference: "Would you have this kind of surgery again?" (Q1), and "Would you recommend this type of surgery to another patient with same symptoms?" (Q2). For the evaluation of patient complaints, the Incontinence Impact Questionnaire (IIQ-7) and Urinary Distress Inventory (UDI-6) were used before and after the procedure. RESULTS: Women in the SIMS group had a significantly lower postoperative pain profile for up to 3 weeks (p<0.001). There was no significant difference in perioperative complications and postoperative continence rates between the groups. With regard to Q1 and Q2, a significant difference was found between the groups (p=0.003 and p=0.002, respectively). While the questionnaire scores of the IIQ-7 and UDI-6 were also significantly improved at postoperative evaluations (p<0.001), there was no significant difference between the two groups. CONCLUSION: SIMS is associated with a significantly improved postoperative pain profile and earlier return to work when compared to MUS.

Long-term outcomes and quality of life effects of single incision mini sling procedure in stress urinary incontinence patients.

OBJECTIVE: We aimed to evaluate the long-term outcomes and quality of life of patients who underwent single incision minisling (SIMS) procedure. STUDY DESIGN: 62 patients who were diagnosed with stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and received treatment with SIMS procedure (Ophira, Promedon, Argentina) were included in the study. Mean age was 50.73 ± 9.28 years and mean follow-up duration after surgery was 30.68 ± 7.52 months. Preoperative urological and gynecological features of the patients were recorded. Gynecological examination, pelvic ultrasonography, stress test, Q-tip test, cystometry were performed and incontinence and quality of life questionnaires (ICIQ-SF, IIQ-7, UDI-6, VAS-QOL, FSFI) were completed by all patients before and after the operation. RESULTS: Stress urinary incontinence was observed in all patients during pre-op evaluations. 62 patients aged between 35-85 (mean age 50.73 ± 9.28) years were included and follow up duration ranged between 12-44 (average 30.68 ± 7.52) months. In regard to patient evaluations, 27 patients (43.5%) felt that the surgery was very effective, 25 (40.3%) felt surgery was effective and 10 (16.1%) did not report any difference after surgery. In the long-term postoperative follow up; 2 (3.2%) patients had dyspareunia and 7 (11.3%) patients had vaginal tape erosions which were diagnosed 2-40 months postoperatively. According to Q-tip test results, proximal urethral mobility was significantly decreased after surgery. All questionnaire scores were also significantly improved at post-operative evaluations. (P < 0.001) CONCLUSIONS: Our study confirmed that the Ophira mini sling technique provided high subjective cure rate and improved symptoms and quality of life in patients with SUI. These results suggest that the single incision mini sling procedure is an advisable alternative to other surgical procedures due to its low complication rates and ease of learning and applying the procedure. This procedure also demonstrated excellent tolerability, minimal pain, low morbidity and increased quality of life scores, in ICIQ-SF, IIQ-7, UDI-6, VAS-QOL, FSFI.