Elevated middle cerebral artery peak systolic velocity and risk of death in donor twin affected by twin-twin transfusion syndrome but not twin anemia-polycythemia sequence.

OBJECTIVES: To determine the association between elevated (> 1.5 multiples of the median (MoM)) middle cerebral artery (MCA) peak systolic velocity (PSV) and fetal demise of the donor twin in pregnancies complicated by twin-twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) in the absence of twin anemia-polycythemia sequence (TAPS). Secondary objectives were to evaluate if donor or recipient MCA-PSV is associated with a risk for their corresponding fetal death, and to compare the proportion of donor fetuses with low MCA pulsatility index (PI) among donor twins with high MCA-PSV and those with normal MCA-PSV to evaluate the contribution of blood-flow redistribution to the fetal brain in donor twins with high MCA-PSV. METHODS: This prospective cohort study included TTTS cases that underwent laser surgery between 2011 and 2022 at a single center. TAPS cases were excluded from the study. Multivariable and Poisson regression analysis were performed to explore the association between isolated elevated donor MCA-PSV and fetal demise, adjusted for TTTS stage, selective fetal growth restriction (sFGR) and other confounders. RESULTS: Of 660 TTTS cases, donor MCA-PSV was not recorded in 48 (7.3%) cases. Of the remaining 612 patients, nine (1.5%) were lost to follow-up and 96 TAPS cases were excluded; thus, 507 cases were included in the study. High donor MCA-PSV was seen in 6.5% (33/507) of cases and was an independent risk factor for donor fetal demise (adjusted relative risk (aRR), 4.52 (95% CI, 2.72-7.50)), after adjusting for confounders. Regression analysis restricted to each Quintero TTTS stage demonstrated that high donor MCA-PSV was an independent risk factor for fetal demise of the donor in Quintero Stage II (aRR, 14.21 (95% CI, 1.09-186.2)) and Quintero Stage III (aRR, 3.41 (95% CI, 1.82-6.41)). Donor MCA-PSV in MoM was associated with fetal demise of the donor (area under the receiver-operating-characteristics curve (AUC), 0.69; P < 0.001), but recipient MCA-PSV in MoM was not associated with fetal demise of the recipient (AUC, 0.54; P = 0.44). A higher proportion of donor twins in the group with high MCA-PSV had a low MCA-PI compared to the group with normal MCA-PSV (33.3% vs 15.5%; P = 0.016). CONCLUSIONS: Elevated donor MCA-PSV without TAPS prior to laser surgery for TTTS is associated with a 4-fold increased risk for donor fetal demise, adjusted for sFGR, TTTS stage and other confounders. Doppler evaluation of donor MCA-PSV prior to laser surgery may help stratify TTTS staging to evaluate the risk of donor fetal demise. © 2024 International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Características de los casos de óbito fetal en un hospital público de Perú: estudio descriptivo / Characteristics of cases of fetal death in a public hospital in Peru: a descriptive study

Objetivo: Describir las características de los casos de óbito fetal reportados entre el año 2017 y 2021 en un hospital público de Perú. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo y transversal, que se realizó en los casos confirmados de muerte fetal en madres con edad gestacional mayor a 22 semanas presentados en el Hospital de Vitarte de Lima, Perú. La muestra estuvo conformada por 137 casos durante el periodo de 2017 a 2021. Se presentaron frecuencias y porcentajes. Resultados: La muerte fetal tuvo una tasa de 14,8 por 1 000 nacidos vivos. La mayoría de las mujeres tenía entre 20 y 24 años (27 %), además, el 70,1 % era conviviente, 92 % era ama de casa y 83,2% estudió hasta secundaria. Por otra parte, 50,4 % era multigesta y 29,9 % tuvo antecedente de aborto y 16,7 % antecedente de cesárea. La asistencia al servicio prenatal fue el más frecuente (67,2 %) y 29,2 % tenía sobrepeso. Respecto a las patologías maternas, el 38 % tuvo infección del tracto urinario, 17,5 % preeclampsia sin signos de seguridad y 2,9 % diabetes gestacional. Las malformaciones congénitas se presentaron en el 19 % de los casos; además, el 23,4 % de muertes fetales tuvo una causa materna. Conclusiones: La tasa de muerte fetal es alta. Los casos estuvieron caracterizados mayormente por madres con cualidades de vulnerabilidad social, además de presentar características de mayor riesgo obstétrico. Las causas maternas de muerte fetal fueron las más frecuentes(AU)

Objective: To describe the characteristics of fetal death cases reported between 2017 and 2021 in a public hospital in Peru. Methods: Descriptive and cross-sectional study, which was conducted in confirmed cases of fetal death in mothers with gestational age greater than 22 weeks presented at the Vitarte Hospital in Lima, Peru. The sample consisted of 137 cases during the period from 2017 to 2021. Frequencies and percentages were presented. Results: Fetal death had a rate of 14,8 per 1000 live births. Most of the women were between 20 and 24 years old (27%), in addition, 70,1% were cohabiting, 92% were housewives and 83,2% studied up to high school. On the other hand, 50,4% were multigestational and 29,9% had a history of abortion and 16,7% had a history of cesarean section. Prenatal service attendance was the most frequent (67,2%) and 29,2% were overweight. Regarding maternal pathologies, 38% had urinary tract infection, 17,5% had preeclampsia without signs of safety and 2,9% had gestational diabetes. Congenital malformations were present in 19% of cases; in addition, 23,4% of fetal deaths had a maternal cause. Conclusions: The rate of fetal death is high. The cases were characterized mostly by mothers with qualities of social vulnerability, in addition to presenting characteristics of higher obstetric risk. Maternal causes of fetal death were the most frequent(AU)

Alteraciones de la placenta y sus anejos en muestras procedentes de muertes fetales. Cienfuegos, 2021-2023

Fundamento la placenta humana es un misterio. El diagnóstico anatomopatológico cobra importancia en la búsqueda de factores en los que se pueda trabajar para evitar las muertes fetales. Objetivo determinar las alteraciones macroscópicas y microscópicas de la placenta y sus anejos en especímenes procedentes de muertes fetales. Métodos se realizó un estudio descriptivo, retrospectivo y trasversal, en el Hospital Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima, de Cienfuegos, en el período comprendido entre 2021 y 2023. Fueron analizadas 58 placentas y sus anejos, recibidos en el departamento de Anatomía Patológica. Se estudiaron las alteraciones macroscópicas y microscópicas de la placenta. Resultados tuvieron mayor representación las placentas y cordones anormalmente pequeños (24,14 % y 63,79 % respectivamente); la inserción marginal del cordón (36,21 %), las rupturas, las torciones (8,62 %), los quistes (6,90 %), el edema (77,59 %), la necrosis fibrinoide (72,41%), las vellosidades inmaduras, la villitis (43,10 %), el excesivo número de nudos sincitiales (3,48 %), la esclerosis fibromuscular (20,69 %), la presencia de fibrina (82,76 %), la funisitis (29,31%), la esclerosis fibromuscular (20,69 %) y la corioamnionitis (31,03 %). Conclusiones los resultados evidenciaron predominio de las alteraciones microscópicas, como son la fibrina, la necrosis fibrinoide y el edema. Teniendo en cuenta estos factores, se podrán tomar las medidas necesarias para evitar una muerte fetal.

Foundation the human placenta is a mystery. The anatomopathological diagnosis becomes important in the search for factors that can be worked on to avoid fetal deaths. Objective to determine the macroscopic and microscopic alterations of the placenta and its annexes in specimens from fetal deaths. Methods a descriptive, retrospective and cross-sectional study was carried out at the Dr. Gustavo Aldereguía Lima Hospital, in Cienfuegos, from 2021 to 2023. 58 placentas and their annexes, received in the Pathological Anatomy Department, were analyzed. Macroscopic and microscopic alterations of the placenta were studied. Results abnormally small placentas and cords were more represented (24.14 % and 63.79 % respectively); marginal cord insertion (36.21 %), ruptures, twists (8.62 %), cysts (6.90 %), edema (77.59 %), fibrinoid necrosis (72.41 %), immature villi, villitis (43.10 %), excessive number of syncytial knots (3.48 %), fibromuscular sclerosis (20.69 %), the presence of fibrin (82.76%), funisitis (29.31 %), fibromuscular sclerosis (20.69 %) and chorioamnionitis (31.03 %). Conclusions the results showed a predominance of microscopic alterations, such as fibrin, fibrinoid necrosis and edema. Taking these factors into account, the necessary measures can be taken to avoid fetal death.

Short Term Coping-Behaviors and Postpartum Health in a Population-Based Study of Women with a Live Birth, Stillbirth, or Neonatal Death.

OBJECTIVE: Responding to the National Institutes of Health Working Group's call for research on the psychological impact of stillbirth, we compared coping-related behaviors by outcome of an index birth (surviving live birth or perinatal loss - stillbirth or neonatal death) and, among individuals with loss, characterized coping strategies and their association with depressive symptoms 6-36 months postpartum. METHODS: We used data from the Stillbirth Collaborative Research Network follow-up study (2006-2008) of 285 individuals who experienced a stillbirth, 691 a livebirth, and 49 a neonatal death. We conducted a thematic analysis of coping strategies individuals recommended following their loss. We fit logistic regression models, accounting for sampling and inverse probability of follow-up weights to estimate associations between pregnancy outcomes and coping-related behaviors and, separately, coping strategies and probable depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale > 12) for those with loss. RESULTS: Compared to those with a surviving live birth and adjusting for pre-pregnancy drinking and smoking, history of stillbirth, and age, individuals who experienced a loss were more likely to report increased drinking or smoking in the two months postpartum (adjusted OR: 2.7, 95% CI = 1.4-5.4). Those who smoked or drank more had greater odds of probable depression at 6 to 36 months postpartum (adjusted OR 6.4, 95% CI = 2.5-16.4). Among those with loss, recommended coping strategies commonly included communication, support groups, memorializing the loss, and spirituality. DISCUSSION: Access to a variety of evidence-based and culturally-appropriate positive coping strategies may help individuals experiencing perinatal loss avoid adverse health consequences.

Fetal cystic and solid tumor of the atrioventricular node: Autopsy diagnosis at 12 weeks of gestational age.

Primary cardiac tumors are uncommon clinical entities with an incidence of 0.0017% to 0.03% of all autopsies. Cystic tumor of the atrioventricular node (CTAVN) comprises of 2.7% of cardiac tumors causing sudden death associated with complete heart block. CTAVN is a congenital benign cystic and solid mass located in the triangle of Koch in atrioventricular nodal region of the heart. It has been described from infancy to adulthood, most often as an incidental finding at autopsy, but has been not yet described in fetuses. We report a case of late spontaneous abortion detected during the first ultrasound follow-up consultation at 12w+1d of gestation in a healthy 23-year-old pregnant woman, gravida 2 para 0 and one previous termination of pregnancy. Pathological study of abortion product was request. No abnormalities were detected on gross examination, but microscopically, characteristics features of cardiac cystic and solid tumor of the atrioventricular node were identified. We present the first case described in literature of a congenital benign CTAVN in a non-macerate, normal, female fetus with an appropriate growth and development for 12w+1d of gestational age. There are many reasons for performing a fetal post-mortem autopsy foremost of which is identifying an accurate cause of death.

Nursing care for parents who have experienced fetal demise: integrative review / Cuidado de enfermería a padres que han experimentado la pérdida fetal: revisión integradora / O cuidado de enfermagem aos pais que vivenciaram o óbito fetal: revisão integrativa

ABSTRACT Objectives: to identify scientific evidence regarding nursing care for parents who have experienced grief following fetal demise. Methods: an integrative review of original studies was conducted across six databases. The studies were classified according to the level of evidence. Results: the qualitative analysis of the nine studies comprising the sample involved thematic categories, exploring the impact of perinatal loss on families, inadequate communication by healthcare professionals, and the importance of a holistic approach in care. The role of the nurse is highlighted in making a positive contribution to the team, emphasizing participation in training and the provision of essential information. Final Considerations: grieving affects not only family dynamics but also the social environment, emphasizing the urgency of a more empathetic and comprehensive approach. Care should be holistic, going beyond technical nursing assistance, and addressing the biopsychosocial context of the parents.

RESUMEN Objetivos: identificar evidencia científica sobre el cuidado de enfermería a padres que han experimentado el duelo ante la pérdida fetal. Métodos: revisión integradora de estudios originales realizada en seis bases de datos y clasificados según el nivel de evidencia. Resultados: el análisis cualitativo de los nueve estudios que conformaron la muestra abordó categorías temáticas, explorando el impacto de la pérdida perinatal en las familias, la comunicación inadecuada por parte de los profesionales de la salud y la importancia de un enfoque holístico en la atención. Se destaca la importancia del papel del enfermero en la contribución positiva al equipo, haciendo hincapié en la participación en capacitaciones y la provisión de información esencial. Consideraciones Finales: la experiencia del duelo afecta no solo la dinámica familiar, sino también el entorno social, evidenciando la urgencia de un enfoque más empático y comprensivo. El cuidado debe ser holístico, trascendiendo la asistencia técnica de enfermería, con un enfoque en el contexto biopsicosocial de los padres.

RESUMO Objetivos: identificar evidências científicas acerca do cuidado de enfermagem aos pais que vivenciaram o luto diante do óbito fetal. Métodos: revisão integrativa de estudos originais realizada em seis bases de dados e classificados quanto ao nível de evidência. Resultados: a análise qualitativa dos nove estudos que compuseram a amostra envolveu categorias temáticas, explorando o impacto da perda perinatal nas famílias, a comunicação inadequada por parte dos profissionais de saúde e a importância de uma abordagem holística na assistência. Destaca-se a importância do papel do enfermeiro na contribuição positiva para a equipe, enfatizando a participação em capacitações e o fornecimento de informações essenciais. Considerações Finais: a vivência do luto impacta não apenas a dinâmica familiar, mas o meio social, evidenciando a urgência de uma abordagem mais empática e compreensiva. O cuidado deve ocorrer de forma holística, transcendendo a assistência técnica de enfermagem, com abordagem do contexto biopsicossocial dos pais.

Mortalidad perinatal en el municipio de Panchimalco, San Salvador: una serie de casos / Perinatal mortality in the municipality of Panchimalco, San Salvador: a case series

RESUMEN La mortalidad perinatal es un indicador que refleja el impacto de la atención materno-infantil de un país. Este estudio presenta nueve casos de la mortalidad perinatal ocurridos en el municipio de Panchimalco, El Salvador. La información se obtuvo de los informes de auditorías. Las madres de los fallecidos tenían edades entre 17 a 43 años, sin uso de anticonceptivos, con controles prenatales incompletos y un promedio de edad gestacional de 31 semanas, tres partos fueron atendidos en la comunidad. La mayoría de muertes perinatales ocurrieron antes del parto de causa desconocida y los nacidos vivos fueron prematuros. Se identificaron factores como el déficit en la atención integral a la mujer. Se requiere de nuevos estudios para determinar los principales factores que influyen en las muertes perinatales en El Salvador.

ABSTRACT Perinatal mortality is an indicator that reflects the impact of maternal and infant care in a country. This study presents nine cases of perinatal mortality that occurred in the municipality of Panchimalco, El Salvador. The information was obtained from audit reports. The mothers of the deceased infants were aged between 17 and 43 years, did not use contraceptive methods, had incomplete prenatal controls and averaged a gestational age of 31 weeks. Three deliveries were attended in the community. Most perinatal deaths occurred before delivery due to unknown causes, and live births were preterm. We identified factors such as deficits in comprehensive care for women. Further studies are needed to determine the main factors influencing perinatal deaths in El Salvador.

Association Between Serum Glycated Hemoglobin Levels at Early Gestation and the Risk of Subsequent Pregnancy Loss in Pregnant Women Without Diabetes Mellitus: Prospective Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: As a severe morbidity during pregnancy, the etiology of spontaneous pregnancy loss (SPL) remains largely unknown. Serum glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) level is an established predictor of SPL risk among women with diabetes, but little is known about whether such an association exists among pregnant women without diabetes when glycemic levels are within the normal range. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to quantify the association between maternal HbA1c levels in early pregnancy and subsequent SPL risk in a cohort of pregnant women without diabetes. METHODS: This prospective cohort study involved 10,773 pregnant women without diabetes enrolled at their first antenatal care visit at a hospital's early pregnancy clinic from March 2016 to December 2018 in Shanghai, China. HbA1c and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels were examined at enrollment. Participants with diabetes before or pregnancy or those diagnosed with gestational diabetes were excluded. Diagnosis of SPL, defined as fetal death occurring before 28 gestational weeks, was derived from medical records and confirmed via telephone interviews. We used generalized linear models to quantify the associations of continuous and dichotomized maternal HbA1c levels with SPL risk and reported crude and adjusted risk ratios (RRs) and 95% CIs. A restricted cubic spline (RCS) regression model was used to assess the potential nonlinear dose-response relationship. Adjusted covariates included maternal age, education level, preconception BMI, gestational weeks, gravidity, history of adverse pregnancy outcomes, family history of diabetes, folic acid supplementation, and smoking and drinking during the periconception period. RESULTS: In total, 273 (2.5%) SPL cases occurred. Every 0.5% increase in HbA1c levels was linearly associated with a 23% increase in SPL risk (adjusted RR [aRR] 1.23; 95% CI 1.01-1.50). The RCS model revealed that this association was linear (P=.77 for the nonlinearity test). Analyses based on dichotomized HbA1c levels showed a significantly increased risk of SPL when HbA1c levels were ≥5.9% (aRR 1.67; 95% CI 0.67-3.67), and the significance threshold was ≥5.6% (aRR 1.60; 95% CI 1.01-2.54). Sensitivity analyses showed similar results when including the participants with missing SPL records or HbA1c data. Linear associations of HbA1c levels remained significant even in the subgroups without overweight, alcohol consumption, and a family history of diabetes and adverse pregnancy outcomes. Every 1 mmol/L increment in maternal FBG levels was associated with a >2-fold higher risk of SPL (aRR 2.12; 95% CI 1.61-2.80; P<.001). CONCLUSIONS: Higher HbA1c levels in early pregnant women without diabetes are associated with an increased SPL risk in a dose-response manner. Pregnant women with an HbA1c level above 5.6% at early gestation need attention for its potentially increased risk for SPL. Our findings support the need to monitor HbA1c levels to identify individuals at high risk of subsequent SPL in the general population of pregnant women. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT02737644; https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT02737644.

Displasia mesenquimal placentaria

La displasia mesenquimal placentaria es una entidad poco frecuente, confundida al ultrasonido y macroscopía con mola parcial por las lesiones vesiculares y la presencia de feto. La microscopía revela vellosidades troncales hidrópicas con gran hiperplasia mesenquimal y lesiones vasculares prominentes, pero sin hiperplasia del epitelio trofoblástico. El feto, generalmente femenino, puede ser normal o presentar retardo del crecimiento intrauterino, malformaciones, tumores o cromosomopatías. Presentamos el estudio de cuatro casos de displasia mesenquimal placentaria; tres primigestas de 39 y 20 años de edad, y una segundigesta de 26 años. La mayor, del tercer trimestre, cursó con preeclampsia y mortinato de sexo femenino con anomalías pulmonar y esplénica, las otras dos presentaron sangrado vaginal y dolor pélvico y un caso fue un hallazgo en el control prenatal a las 8 semanas de gestación. En tres casos se observaron feto y embrion, dos de ellos tuvieron necropsia.

Placental mesenchymal dysplasia is a rare entity, confused with ultrasound and macroscopy with partial mole due to vesicular lesions and the presence of a fetus. Microscopy reveals hydropic trunk villi with great mesenchymal hyperplasia and prominent vascular lesions but without hyperplasia of the trophoblastic epithelium. The fetus, usually female, may be normal or present malformations, tumors or chromosomopathies. We present the study of four cases of placental mesenchymal dysplasia; three first-pregnancies, aged 39 and 20, and a second-pregnancy, aged 26. The oldest in the third trimester presented with preeclampsia and a female stillbirth with pulmonary and splenic anomalies, the other two presented vaginal bleeding and pelvic pain and one case was a finding in prenatal control at 8 weeks of gestation. In three cases, fetus and embryo were observed, two of them had a necropsy.

[Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy: French College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists guidelines for clinical practice]. / La cholestase gravidique : recommandations pour la pratique clinique du Collège national des gynécologues obstétriciens français.

OBJECTIVE: To identify strategies for reducing neonatal and maternal morbidity associated with intrahepatic cholestasis pregnancy (ICP). MATERIAL AND METHODS: The quality of evidence of the literature was assessed following the GRADE methodology with questions formulated in the PICO format (Patients, Intervention, Comparison, Outcome) and outcomes defined a priori and classified according to their importance. An extensive bibliographic search was performed on PubMed, Cochrane, EMBASE and Google Scholar databases. The quality of the evidence was assessed (high, moderate, low, very low) and a (i) strong or (ii) weak recommendations or (iii) no recommendation were formulated. The recommendations were reviewed in two rounds with external reviewers (Delphi survey) to select the consensus recommendations. RESULTS: Of the 14 questions (from 12 PICO questions and one definition question outside the PICO format), there was agreement between the working group and the external reviewers on 14 (100%). The level of evidence of the literature was insufficient to provide a recommendation on two questions. ICP is defined by the occurrence of suggestive pruritus (palmoplantar, nocturnal) associated with a total bile acid level>10µmol/L or an alanine transaminase level above 2N after ruling out differential diagnoses. In the absence of suggestive symptoms of a differential diagnosis, it is recommended not to carry out additional biological or ultrasound tests. In women with CIP, ursodeoxycholic acid is recommended to reduce the intensity of maternal pruritus (Strong recommendation. Quality of the evidence moderate) and to decrease the level of total bile acids and alanine transaminases. (Strong recommendation. Quality of the evidence moderate). S-adenosyl-methionine, dexamethasone, guar gum or activated charcoal should not be used to reduce the intensity of maternal pruritus (Strong recommendation. Quality of evidence low), and there is insufficient data to recommend the use of antihistamines (No recommendation. Quality of evidence low). Rifampicin (Weak recommendation. Very low quality of evidence) or plasma exchange (Strong recommendation. Very low quality of evidence) should not be used to reduce maternal pruritus and perinatal morbidity. Serum monitoring of bile acids is recommended to reduce perinatal morbidity and mortality (stillbirth, prematurity) (Low recommendation. Quality of the evidence low). The level of evidence is insufficient to determine whether fetal heart rate or fetal ultrasound monitoring are useful to reduce perinatal morbidity (No recommendation). Birth is recommended when bile acid level is above 99µmol/L from 36 weeks gestation to reduce perinatal morbidity, in particular stillbirth. When bile acid level is above 99µmol/L is below 100µmol/L, women should be informed that induction of labor could be considered 37 and 39 weeks gestation to reduce perinatal morbidity. (Strong recommendation. Quality of evidence low). In postpartum, total bile acids and alanine transaminases level should be checked and normalized before prescribing estrogen-progestin contraception, ideally with a low estrogen dose (risk of recurrence of pruritus and cytolysis) (Low recommendation. Quality of evidence very low). CONCLUSION: Although the quality of evidence regarding ICP gestational cholestasis remains low, there is a strong consensus in France, as shown by our Delphi study, on how to manage women with ICP. The reference first-line treatment is ursodeoxycholic acid.

Randomized controlled trial comparing efficacy of a combination regime containing two cervical sensitizers (mifepristone + Foley's catheter) versus single agent mifepristone or Foley's catheter for labor induction in women attempting TOLAC at late third trimester with a dead fetus in utero.

Randomized controlled trial comparing efficacy of a combination regime containing two cervical sensitizers (mifepristone + Foley's catheter) versus single agent mifepristone or Foley's catheter for labor induction in women attempting TOLAC at late third trimester with a dead fetus in utero. AIM: To compare efficacy and safety of a new combination regime comprising of two cervical sensitizers used simultaneously with single agents, for labor induction in women attempting TOLAC at ≥34 weeks' gestation with a dead fetus. METHOD: This was a multiarm randomized controlled trial (RCT) where participants received one of the three regimes-single agent oral Mifepristone 200 mg, intracervical Foley's catheter (16 Fr size, filled with 40 mL normal saline after intracervical instillation), and combination regime consisting of both used simultaneously. Number of women undergoing vaginal birth within 48 h of induction (VB48 ) was the primary outcome compared between groups. RESULTS: VB48 was higher in participants on combination regime in comparison to participants on Foley's catheter (54 vs. 42). Total vaginal births were higher in participants on combination regime compared to both single agents (58 vs. 48 and 44). Duration and dose of oxytocin augmentation was lower in participants on combination regime compared to both single agents. Induction birth interval was short in participants on combination regime compared to those on Foley's catheter. Maternal complications between groups were similar. CONCLUSION: Combination of cervical sensitizers for labor induction in late third trimester among women with dead fetus attempting TOLAC resulted in higher proportion of vaginal births and might reduce risk of scar dehiscence due to requirement of a lower dose of oxytocin for augmentation.

Comparison of the effect of vaginal misoprostol and evening primrose oil capsule with misoprostol alone on the consequences of abortion in women with intrauterine fetal death: a randomized clinical trial.

BACKGROUND: Misoprostol is the choice drug for inducing an abortion with intrauterine fetal death, but it has several side effects that increase with accumulating the dose received. Induction abortion with cheap and non-invasive methods with minimal complications is essential. This study aimed to compare the effect vaginal misoprostol plus vaginal evening primrose oil capsule with vaginal misoprostol alone on the consequences of abortion in pregnant women with intrauterine fetal death at 12-20 weeks of pregnancy. METHODS: This study is a randomized, triple-blind clinical trial with two parallel groups at a ratio of 1:1. We randomized 82 women with indications of termination of pregnancy due to intrauterine fetal death into two groups. The experimental group (n = 42) received 200 mcg of misoprostol tablet with 1000 mg evening primrose oil capsule intravaginal. The control group (n = 40) received 200 mcg of misoprostol tablet with 1000 mg evening primrose oil placebo capsule intravaginal. Both groups received the drugs every 4 h for up to five doses. The primary outcome was the mean induction-to-fetal expulsion interval. Secondary outcomes were the mean dose of misoprostol, the highest pain intensity in the induction-to-fetal expulsion interval, the frequency of participants requiring blood transfusion, curettage, and the frequency of side effects of misoprostol or evening primrose oil. Pain intensity was measured through the Visual Analog Scale. RESULTS: The mean age of the experimental group was 32.30 ± 6.19 years, and the control group was 30.27 ± 7.68 years. The mean gestational age of the experimental group was 15.29 ± 2.26 weeks, and the control group was 15.10 ± 1.89 weeks. The mean induction-to-fetal expulsion interval in the experimental group (3.12 ± 2.17 h) was significantly lower than that in the control group (8.40 ± 4.1 h) (p < 0.001). The mean dose of misoprostol received in the experimental group (271.42 ± 115.39 mcg) was significantly lower than that in the control group (520 ± 201.53 mcg) (p < 0.001). Also, the mean pain intensity in the experimental group (5.02 ± 0.60) was significantly lower than that in the control group (8.65 ± 1.001) (p < 0.001). The two groups were not significantly different in the frequency of blood transfusion requirements, analgesia and drug side effects. The need for curettage in the experimental group (4.8%) was significantly lower than that in the control group (47.5%) (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Vaginal administration of evening primrose oil with misoprostol reduced duration of time of fetal expulsion, pain intensity, mean dose of misoprostol received, and the need for curettage in participants. Therefore, we suggest this method for induced abortion in women with intrauterine fetal death. TRIAL REGISTRATION: IRCT20181207041873N3. Dated 16/2/2021 prospectively registered https://en.irct.ir/user/trial/53681/view .

Non-obstetric surgery during pregnancy and the effects on maternal and fetal outcomes: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Non-obstetric surgery is fairly common in pregnant women. We performed a systematic review to update data on non-obstetric surgery in pregnant women. The aim of this review was to evaluate the effects of non-obstetric surgery during pregnancy on pregnancy, fetal and maternal outcomes. METHODS: A systematic literature search of MEDLINE and Scopus was conducted in accordance with Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. The search span was from January 2000 to November 2022. Thirty-six studies matched the inclusion criteria, and 24 publications were identified through reference mining; 60 studies were included in this review. Outcome measures were miscarriage, stillbirth, preterm birth, low birth weight, low Apgar score, and infant and maternal morbidity and mortality rates. RESULTS: We obtained data for 80,205 women who underwent non-obstetric surgery and data for 16,655,486 women who did not undergo surgery during pregnancy. Prevalence of non-obstetric surgery was between 0.23% and 0.74% (median 0.37%). Appendectomy was the most common procedure with median prevalence of 0.10%. Near half (43%) of the procedures were performed during the second trimester, 32% during the first trimester, and 25% during the third trimester. Half of surgeries were scheduled, and half were emergent. Laparoscopic and open techniques were used equally for abdominal cavity. Women who underwent non-obstetric surgery during pregnancy had increased rate of stillbirth (odds ratio (OR) 2.0) and preterm birth (OR 2.1) compared to women without surgery. Surgery during pregnancy did not increase rate of miscarriage (OR 1.1), low 5 min Apgar scores (OR 1.1), the fetus being small for gestational age (OR 1.1) or congenital anomalies (OR 1.0). CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of non-obstetric surgery has decreased during last decades, but still two out of 1000 pregnant women have scheduled surgery during pregnancy. Surgery during pregnancy increases the risk of stillbirth, and preterm birth. For abdominal cavity surgery, both laparoscopic and open approaches are feasible.

Factores de riesgo maternos asociados con la muerte fetal tardía en el contexto santaclareño / Maternal risk factors associated with late fetal death in the Santa Clara context

Introducción: La muerte fetal es uno de los accidentes obstétricos más difíciles de enfrentar, tanto para la paciente y su familia como para el personal de salud que atiende a la gestante. Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo maternos asociados con la muerte fetal tardía en el contexto santaclareño. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo, longitudinal y retrospectivo en el municipio Santa Clara, provincia Villa Clara, en el período comprendido de enero de 2015 a diciembre de 2019. La población estuvo conformada por 71 gestantes con fetos muertos en una etapa tardía y sus productos; en el análisis y procesamiento de los datos, se usó el software SPSS versión 20 para Windows. Resultados: Existió predominio de gestantes multíparas (56,3 %), en edad reproductiva óptima (69 %) y con uno a tres factores de riesgo (71,8 %). Conclusiones: Los factores maternos asociados con mayor frecuencia a la muerte fetal tardía pueden agruparse en: los vinculados a las enfermedades crónicas, en primer lugar la hipertensión arterial y en segundo el hipotiroidismo, y los relacionados con las afecciones del tracto genital, entre las que prevalece la vaginitis.

Introduction: fetal death is one of the most difficult obstetric accidents to face, both for patients and their families as well as for the health personnel who take care of the pregnant women. Objective: to identify the maternal risk factors associated with late fetal death in the Santa Clara context. Methods: a descriptive, longitudinal and retrospective study was carried out in Santa Clara municipality, Villa Clara province, from January 2015 to December 2019. The population consisted of 71 pregnant women with late fetal demise and their products; the SPSS software version 20.0 for Windows was used in the data processing and analysis. Results: multiparous pregnant women predominated (56.3%), in optimal reproductive age (69%) and from one to three risk factors (71.8%). Conclusions: the most frequently maternal factors associated with late fetal death can be grouped into those that were linked to chronic diseases, firstly arterial hypertension and secondly hypothyroidism, and those related to disorders of the genital tract, among which vaginitis prevails.

Spontaneous hemoperitoneum in the second and third trimester of pregnancy: two uncommon case reports at Tu Du Hospital, in Vietnam and a literature review.

BACKGROUND: Spontaneous hemoperitoneum in pregnancy (SHiP) refers to fluid collection in the abdominal cavity with a vague presentation of clinical symptoms. Particularly, SHiP causes a life-threatening condition with the coexistence of intrauterine pregnancy, since this dangerous complication significantly increases the maternal and fetal mortality. Herein, we present two cases of nontraumatic SHiP in the second and third trimester of pregnancy, respectively. CASE PRESENTATION: The pregnant woman in case 1 was admitted to our hospital owing to severe paroxysmal shoulder pain along with abdominal pain. Her medical history was remarkably recorded with endometriosis and adenomyosis. At the emergency room, an ultrasound scan revealed a live fetus corresponding to 21 weeks and 3 days and free fluid in the abdominal cavity. She was subsequently diagnosed with SHiP and underwent immediate laparotomy for hemostatic procedures. During the postpartum course, the patient was uneventfully monitored. Unfortunately, the patient delivered on the 4th postoperative day in spite of the initial administration of tocolytic agents and close monitoring. The primigravid woman in case 2 complained of lower abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. The patient's history was noted with ovarian tumor removal. At admission, the sonography scan revealed free fluid in the abdominal cavity, a fetus at 34 weeks and 3 days gestational age with bradycardia of 70 bpm, and a laboratory test showed a low hemoglobin level. Thus, exploratory laparotomy and hysterotomy were performed at the same time due to fetal distress. The postpartum course was uneventful. The patient was discharged 5 days later. CONCLUSIONS: In pregnant women with a history of endometriosis, adenomyosis, or ovarian tumor removal, acute abdominal pain combined with the presence of free fluid collection in the intraperitoneal cavity, and a decreased hemoglobin levels should be first assessed as SHiP originating from the spontaneous rupture of abnormal vascular proliferation. Proper management is strongly indicated for an emergent laparotomy to control the active bleeding point, thus increasing the survival rate for both mother and neonate.

Risk factors for late preterm and term stillbirth: A secondary analysis of an individual participant data meta-analysis.

OBJECTIVE: Identify independent and novel risk factors for late-preterm (28-36 weeks) and term (≥37 weeks) stillbirth and explore development of a risk-prediction model. DESIGN: Secondary analysis of an Individual Participant Data (IPD) meta-analysis investigating modifiable stillbirth risk factors. SETTING: An IPD database from five case-control studies in New Zealand, Australia, the UK and an international online study. POPULATION: Women with late-stillbirth (cases, n = 851), and ongoing singleton pregnancies from 28 weeks' gestation (controls, n = 2257). METHODS: Established and novel risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth underwent univariable and multivariable logistic regression modelling with multiple sensitivity analyses. Variables included maternal age, body mass index (BMI), parity, mental health, cigarette smoking, second-hand smoking, antenatal-care utilisation, and detailed fetal movement and sleep variables. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Independent risk factors with adjusted odds ratios (aOR) for late-preterm and term stillbirth. RESULTS: After model building, 575 late-stillbirth cases and 1541 controls from three contributing case-control studies were included. Risk factor estimates from separate multivariable models of late-preterm and term stillbirth were compared. As these were similar, the final model combined all late-stillbirths. The single multivariable model confirmed established demographic risk factors, but additionally showed that fetal movement changes had both increased (decreased frequency) and reduced (hiccoughs, increasing strength, frequency or vigorous fetal movements) aOR of stillbirth. Poor antenatal-care utilisation increased risk while more-than-adequate care was protective. The area-under-the-curve was 0.84 (95% CI 0.82-0.86). CONCLUSIONS: Similarities in risk factors for late-preterm and term stillbirth suggest the same approach for risk-assessment can be applied. Detailed fetal movement assessment and inclusion of antenatal-care utilisation could be valuable in late-stillbirth risk assessment.

Experiência dos enfermeiros no cuidado às mulheres diante das perdas gestacionais / Nurses' experience in caring for women in the face of pregnancy losses

Resumo: A gestação é um fenômeno fisiológico e mesmo com o manejo de pré-natal adequado, as perdas gestacionais podem ocorrer. A Organização Mundial da Saúde estima uma ocorrência de 4,9 milhões de mortes perinatais no mundo todos os anos. No Brasil, a incidência em 2020, mostrou um total de 28.993 casos, sendo 1.062 no estado do Paraná e, destes, 117 na cidade de Curitiba. Não obstante, para além dos dados, tem-se o impacto emocional para todos os envolvidos, inquestionáveis para a mulher e família que sofre com a perda gestacional, mas também para os profissionais de saúde, em especial os enfermeiros, que se deparam com estas situações ao longo da vida profissional. Desta forma, este estudo teve como questão de pesquisa: qual a percepção do enfermeiro sobre o cuidado oferecido à mulher que sofreu perda gestacional? Ainda, como objetivo geral, compreender a percepção do enfermeiro que presta cuidados às mulheres diante das perdas gestacionais; e objetivos específicos: identificar elementos do cuidado do enfermeiro frente à mulher que sofreu perda gestacional e descrever a experiência dos enfermeiros sobre seu cuidado diante da mulher que diante perda gestacional. Trata-se de estudo qualitativo exploratório, realizado em um hospital universitário da Região Sul do país. A coleta de dados deu-se através de entrevistas semiestruturadas, as quais foram audiogravadas e transcritas na íntegra, durante os meses de abril a junho de 2022. Contou com a participação de 11 enfermeiros que atuam diretamente com mulheres em situação de perda gestacional. Para análise dos dados, foram seguidos os passos da Análise de Conteúdo do tipo temática proposta por Bardin e apoiada pelo uso do software de análise qualitativa o webQDA. Resultados: foram levantados 13 temas, os quais, por afinidade e exclusão, resultaram na elaboração de 3 categorias: Fragilidades do processo de cuidar frente às perdas gestacionais; Potencialidades do processo de cuidar frente às perdas gestacionais; e Cuidados de enfermagem frente às perdas gestacionais. Foi possível evidenciar que os enfermeiros conseguiam reconhecer as lacunas assistenciais e, mesmo com suas dificuldades, prestavam um cuidado respeitoso e empático, além de proporcionar momento de criação de memórias para as famílias enlutadas, através de fotos ou guarda de pertences que foram do bebê, que passou tão brevemente pela vida. O estudo permitiu compreender que os enfermeiros entrevistados reconheciam a importância da sua presença como um profissional que oferece um cuidado direcionado a cada mulher/família em situação de perda gestacional nas suas necessidades, enfatizaram a comunicação verbal e não verbal, sendo uma de suas preocupações que esta compreendesse, para além da assistência oferecida, este olhar singular do profissional. Os impactos do desenvolvimento deste trabalho podem resultar na elaboração de documentos, materiais educativos e protocolos assistenciais voltados aos profissionais de saúde que prestam cuidados diante das perdas gestacionais dentro das instituições hospitalares.

Abstract: Pregnancy is a physiological phenomenon. However, even with proper prenatal care management, pregnancy losses may occur. The World Health Organization estimates 4.9 million perinatal deaths worldwide every year. In Brazil, showed an incidence of 28,993 cases in 2020, with 1,062 cases in Parana State and, among these, 117 in its capital city, Curitiba. Therefore, that is a global health problem, but there still have been scarce public policies addressing this theme. Apart from the data, there is also the emotional impact on all the involved individuals, unquestionably to the woman and family who suffer the pregnancy loss, but also to the healthcare professionals, ultimately nurses, who are confronted with those situations along their professional lives. Thus, the research question in this study was: what is the nurses' perception on the health care delivered to the woman facing a pregnancy loss? In addition, the general objective was to understand the nurse's perception who renders health care to the woman who suffered a pregnancy loss. It is an exploratory qualitative study held at a university hospital in Southern Brazil. Data collection was conducted by means of semi-structured interviews, which were audio recorded and fully transcribed between April and June 2022. The participants were 11 nurses who care for women in a situation of pregnancy loss. For the data analysis, Thematic Content Analysis proposed by Bardin was applied, supported by the use of the webQDAE software for qualitative analysis. Results: 13 themes by affinity and exclusion stood out by means of the analysis, which resulted in the elaboration of 3 categories: Fragilities in the caring process in the face of pregnancy losses; Potentialities of the caring process in the face of pregnancy losses; and Nursing Care in the face of pregnancy losses. It was possible to evidence that nurses could recognize caring gaps, and even facing difficulties, they could deliver respectful and empathetic care, in addition to providing a moment of creating memories to bereaved families through photos or belongings of the baby who briefly got through their lives. The study enabled to understand that the interviewed nurses acknowledged the importance of their presence as professionals who delivered care to meet the needs of each woman/family going through a pregnancy loss. They also pointed out verbal and non-verbal communication as one of their concerns so that the women could understand their unique professional look, beyond care delivery. The study outcomes may result in the elaboration of documents, educational materials and care protocols to those health professionals who are confronted with pregnancy losses while rendering care within hospital institutions.

Risk of fetal or neonatal death or neonatal intensive care unit admission associated with gadolinium magnetic resonance imaging exposure during pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Concerns have been raised about prenatal exposure to magnetic resonance imaging with gadolinium-based contrast agents because of nonclinical findings of gadolinium retention in fetal tissue and 1 population-based study reporting an association with adverse pregnancy outcomes. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to evaluate the association between prenatal magnetic resonance imaging exposure with and without gadolinium-based contrast agents and fetal and neonatal death and neonatal intensive care unit admission. STUDY DESIGN: We constructed a retrospective cohort of >11 million Medicaid-covered pregnancies between 1999 and 2014 to evaluate the association between prenatal magnetic resonance imaging exposure with and without gadolinium-based contrast agents and fetal and neonatal death (primary endpoint) and neonatal intensive care unit admissions (secondary endpoint). Medicaid claims data were linked to medical records, Florida birth and fetal death records, and the National Death Index to validate the outcomes and gestational age estimates. Pregnancies with multiples, concurrent cancer, teratogenic drug exposure, magnetic resonance imaging focused on fetal or pelvic evaluation, undetermined gadolinium-based contrast agent use, or those preceded by or contemporaneous with congenital anomaly diagnoses were excluded. We adjusted for potential confounders with standardized mortality ratio weighting using propensity scores. RESULTS: Among 5991 qualifying pregnancies, we found 11 fetal or neonatal deaths in the gadolinium-based contrast agent magnetic resonance imaging group (1.4%) and 73 in the non-gadolinium-based contrast agent magnetic resonance imaging group (1.4%) with an adjusted relative risk of 0.73 (95% confidence interval, 0.34-1.55); the neonatal intensive care unit admission adjusted relative risk was 1.03 (0.76-1.39). Sensitivity analyses investigating the timing of magnetic resonance imaging or repeat magnetic resonance imaging exposure during pregnancy and simulating the impact of exposure misclassification corroborated these results. CONCLUSION: This study addressed the safety concerns related to prenatal exposure to gadolinium-based contrast agents used in magnetic resonance imaging and the risk thereof on fetal and neonatal death or the need for neonatal intensive care unit admission. Although the results on fatal or severe acute effects are reassuring, the impact on subacute outcomes was not evaluated.

Double fatal consequences of distance metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma after a completed chemoradiation in pregnancy: A case report.

Distant metastasis in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) patients is one of the reasons for the decreased life expectancy with the most common metastasis spreads are to the bone, liver, and lung. Hepatoma is the most frequent liver malignancy and is one of the highest causes of cancer death worldwide and this can be as a result of NPC metastasis. The aim of this case report was to present a patient with hepatoma in pregnancy as a result of NPC metastasis. A 34-year-old pregnant female at 24-25 weeks of gestation presented with a chief complaint of heartburn and unbearable pain radiating to the back. Previous medical history reported that the patient had a liver enlargement. The patient was G4P2A1 with a single living intrauterine fetus and active fetal movements. The patient has a history of NPC and received a completed chemoradiation one month prior to hospital admission. Physical examination showed bilateral rales and palpable diffuse multiple nodule masses in the upper right abdominal quadrant. Laboratory examination revealed anemia, thrombocytopenia, negative hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg), and elevated liver markers. Abdominal ultrasonography results showed multiple diffuse nodules in the liver. The patient was diagnosed with a metastatic hepatoma based on the clinical and imaging findings. During hospitalization, the patient repeatedly experienced pleural effusion with suspicion metastases. A few days later, the fetal movements stopped and the ultrasonography indicated negative fetal heart rate. After experiencing respiratory distress for hours, the patient expired the day after. This case highlights that due to the potential adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, the initiation of these therapies should be carefully decided to avoid adverse effects to mother and fetus.

Fatores clínicos e obstétricos de óbitos fetais em uma maternidade de alto risco / Clinical and obstetric factors of fetal death in a high-risk maternity

Objetivo: Caracterizar os fatores clínicos e obstétricos de mulheres que tiveram diagnóstico de óbito fetal em uma maternidade escola de alto risco. Metodologia: estudo de abordagem quantitativa, de corte transversal e caráter descritivo exploratório. Foram incluídos 354 prontuários de mulheres admitidas com diagnóstico e óbito fetal entre janeiro de 2018 a janeiro de 2022. Analisou-se os dados a partir da distribuição de frequências absolutas e relativas (%). Resultados: A idade média das participantes foi de 26 anos. A maioria era primípara sem perdas fetais prévias. Hipóxia Fetal Intraútero foi a causa de óbito mais frequente (17,8%). Conclusão: O óbito fetal intraútero ainda é um diagnóstico que requer mais visibilidade por parte do sistema de saúde. Foi constatada a deficiência dos registros em prontuário de dados importantes, ressaltando a necessidade de promover treinamento e capacitação para os profissionais que realizam assistência

Objective: To characterize the clinical and obstetric factors of women who were diagnosed with fetal death in a high-risk maternity hospital. Methodology: cross-sectional, analytical and retrospective study, carried out in a high-risk maternity hospital in the Central Region of Goiás. A total of 354 medical records of women admitted with a diagnosis and fetal death between January 2018 and January 2022 were included. Data were analyzed based on the distribution of absolute and relative frequencies (%). Results: The average age of the participants was 26 years old. Most were primiparous without previous fetal losses. Intrauterine Fetal Hypoxia was the most frequent cause of death (17.8%). Conclusion: Intrauterine fetal death is still a diagnosis that requires more visibility from the health system. It was verified the deficiency of records in medical records of important data, emphasizing the need to promote training and qualification for professionals who perform assistance