Preventing the human factor: organizational aspects linked to fetal asphyxia.

BACKGROUND: Perinatal asphyxia can cause cerebral palsy and hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy. They are public health problems because they cause permanent disability. METHODS: This is a retrospective, analytical, observational study. Overall, 162 cases of mothers whose children experienced fetal asphyxia were compared to 361 controls where this condition did not occur. The variables analyzed were classified as: prepartum, intrapartum and organizational. RESULTS: Assisted reproductive technology obtained pregnancies, smoking, maternal body mass index, lack of one-to-one assistance during labor, birth on a day of high-volume activity increased the risk of fetal asphyxia, as well as other traditionally linked factors like shoulder dystocia or age over 35 years. CONCLUSIONS: Cerebral palsy cannot always be prevented because it is a syndrome with a multitude of potential causes. But a small number of cases is likely to be linked to acute intrapartum events that could be limited by changing organizational policies such as staff training and implementing teamwork and discussion. Our paper proposes strategies to try and modify organizational risk factors and therefore limit the incidence of fetal asphyxia.

How common is substandard obstetric care in adverse events of birth asphyxia, shoulder dystocia and postpartum hemorrhage? Findings from an external inspection of Norwegian maternity units.

INTRODUCTION: The Norwegian Board of Health Supervision inspects healthcare institutions to ensure safety and quality of health and welfare services. A planned inspection of 12 maternity units aimed to investigate the practice of obstetric care in the case of birth asphyxia, shoulder dystocia and severe postpartum hemorrhage. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The inspection was carried out at two large, four medium and six small maternity units in Norway in 2016 to investigate adverse events that occurred between 1 January and 31 December 2014. Six of them were selected as control units. The Norwegian Board of Health Supervision searched the Medical Birth Registry of Norway to identify adverse events in each of the categories and then requested access to the medical records for all patients identified. Information about guidelines, formal teaching and simulation training at each unit was obtained by sending a questionnaire to the obstetrician in charge of each maternity unit. RESULTS: The obstetric units inspected had 553 serious adverse events of birth asphyxia, shoulder dystocia or severe postpartum hemorrhage among 17 323 deliveries. Twenty-nine events were excluded from further analysis due to erroneous coding or missing data in the patients' medical records. We included 524 cases (3.0% of all deliveries) of adverse events in the final analysis. Medical errors caused by substandard care were present in 295 (56.2%) cases. There was no difference in the prevalence of substandard care among the maternity units according to their size. Surprisingly, we found significantly fewer cases with substandard care in the units which the supervisory authorities considered particularly risky before the inspection, compared with the control units. Seven of the 12 units had regular formal teaching and training arrangements for obstetric healthcare personnel as outlined in the national guidelines. CONCLUSIONS: Prevalence of adverse events was 3% and similar in all maternity units irrespective of their size. A breach in the standard of care was observed in 56.2% of cases and almost half of the maternity units did not follow national recommendations regarding teaching and practical training of obstetric personnel, suggesting that they should focus on implementing guidelines and training their staff.

Factores asociados con bajo puntaje de Apgar en la maternidad del Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell / Factors associated with low Apgar score in the maternity of Pereira Rossell Hospital / Fatores associados com baixa pontuação de Apgar na maternidade do Centro Hospitalar Pereira Rossell

Introducción: La depresión neonatal es una de las causas más frecuentes de ingreso de recién nacidos a unidades especializadas de atención neonatal. La asfixia perinatal es una de las causas de bajo puntaje de Apgar, siendo uno de los criterios clínicos para su diagnóstico. Los principales factores de riesgo vinculados con bajos puntajes de Apgar pueden ser maternos (edad, patologías obstétricas, nivel socioeconómico, adicciones, etc.), del trabajo de parto y parto o, alteraciones fetales. Objetivos: Determinar los factores perinatales asociados a la baja puntuación de Apgar a los 5 minutos. Diseño: Estudio retrospectivo de casos y controles en los años 2015 y 2016. Institución: Hospital de la Mujer, Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell, Montevideo, Uruguay. Participantes: Se incluyeron todos los recién nacidos término con Apgar a los 5 minutos menor o igual a 5. Resultados: Hubo un total de 12.528 nacimientos de recién nacidos vivos de término en el HM. 34 casos de recién nacidos con Apgar a los 5 minutos menor o igual a 5. Esto corresponde al 0,27% de la población. No se identificaron diferencias estadísticamente significativas en cuanto a los principales factores asociados a asfixia perinatal. Conclusiones: En el análisis de esta población, la mayoría de los factores analizados no se asocia con los casos de Apgar a los 5 minutos menor o igual a 5 (depresión neonatal moderada-severa), por lo que la mayoría de estos casos pueden no ser evitables.

Introduction: Neonatal depression is one of the most frequent causes of admission of newborns to specialized units of neonatal care. Perinatal asphyxia is one of the causes of low Apgar score, and it is one of the clinical criteria for its diagnosis. Main risk factors associated with low Apgar scores can be maternal (age, obstetric pathologies, socioeconomic level, addictions, etc.), of labor and delivery or, fetal alterations. Objective: To determine the perinatal factors associated with the low Apgar score at 5 minutes. Design: Retrospective study of cases and controls in 2015 and 2016. Institution: Maternity, Women Hospital, Centro Hospitalario Pereira Rossell, Montevideo, Uruguay. Patients: We included all term newborns with Apgar at 5 minutes less than or equal to 5. Results: There was a total of 12,528 births of term full-term newborns in the HM. 34 cases of newborns with Apgar at 5 minutes less than or equal to 5. This corresponds to 0.27% of the population. No statistically significant differences were identified regarding the main factors associated with perinatal asphyxia. Conclusions: In the analysis of this population, most of the analyzed factors are not associated with cases of Apgar at 5 minutes less than or equal to 5 (moderate-severe neonatal depression), so that most of these cases may not be avoidable.

Introdução: A depressão neonatal é uma das causas mais freqüentes de internação de recém-nascidos em unidades especializadas de atenção neonatal. A asfixia perinatal é uma das causas do baixo índice de Apgar, sendo um dos critérios clínicos para o seu diagnóstico. Os principais fatores de risco associados aos baixos escores de Apgar podem ser maternos (idade, patologias obstétricas, nível socioeconômico, dependências, etc.), de trabalho de parto e parto, ou alterações fetais. Objetivos: Determine os fatores perinatais asociados ao baixo índice de Apgar aos 5 minutos. Design: Estudo retrospectivo de casos e controles nos anos de 2015 e 2016. Instituição: Hospital da Mulher, Centro Hospitalar Pereira Rossell, Montevidéu, Uruguai. Participantes: Todos os recém-nascidos a termo com Apgar a 5 minutos menor ou igual a 5 foram incluídos. Houve um total de 12.528 nascidos vivos a termo no MB. 34 casos de recém-nascidos com Apgar a 5 minutos menor ou igual a 5. Isso corresponde a 0,27% da população. Não foram identificadas diferenças estatisticamente significantes quanto aos principais fatores associados à asfixia perinatal. Conclusões: Na análise dessa população, a maioria dos fatores analisados não está associada aos casos de Apgar em 5 minutos menor ou igual a 5 (depressão neonatal moderada a grave), de modo que a maioria desses casos pode não ser evitável.

Indicadores de calidad de la atención a neonatos con patologías seleccionadas: estudio piloto / Quality care indicators for neonates with selected pathologies: pilot study

Resumen: Objetivo: Desarrollar y pilotar indicadores de calidad de la atención a neonatos con padecimientos relevantes en México (prematuridad, sepsis neonatal, asfixia perinatal e hipoxia intrauterina). Material y métodos: Se construyeron indicadores propios a partir de recomendaciones clave de las guías de práctica clínica nacionales e indicadores encontrados en repositorios internacionales. Previa búsqueda, selección y priorización, los indicadores fueron pilotados en dos hospitales. Se analizó la factibilidad de medición, fiabilidad (índice kappa) y utilidad para detectar problemas de calidad. Resultados: Se seleccionaron y pilotaron 23 indicadores; 12 eran compuestos. Del total, nueve fueron factibles y fiables. La calidad de la información en los hospitales fue diversa y frecuentemente deficiente, limitando tanto la factibilidad como la fiabilidad de los indicadores. Los niveles de cumplimiento identificaron oportunidades de mejora. Conclusiones: Se propone un set de nueve indicadores válidos, factibles, fiables y útiles para la monitorización de la calidad en la atención a neonatos patológicos.

Abstract Objective: Develop and pilot indicators of quality of care to neonates with relevant conditions in Mexico (prematurity, neonatal sepsis, perinatal asphyxia, and intrauterine hypoxia). Materials and methods: Own indicators were built based on key recommendations of national clinical practice guidelines and indicators found in international repositories. With previous search, selection and prioritization, the indicators were piloted within two hospitals. The feasibility of measuring, (kappa index) reliability and usefulness was analyzed to detect quality problems. Results: 23 indicators were selected and piloted, 12 are compounds, of the total, nine were feasible and reliable. The quality of the hospital's information was diverse and often poor, limiting both the feasibility and the reliability of the indicators. Improvement opportunities were identified thorough the compliance levels. Conclusions: A set of nine indicators valid, reliable, feasible and useful indicators is proposed in order to monitor the quality of care of pathological neonates.

Peripartum fetal distress in diabetic women: a retrospective case-cohort study.

BACKGROUND: Major concerns of pregnancies complicated by diabetes mellitus are an increased risk of adverse perinatal outcome. The objective of this study was to analyse the rate of fetal distress during labor in women with type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes compared to control women. METHODS: A retrospective case-cohort study was conducted at the VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam; a tertiary care hospital. 117 women with type 1 diabetes, 59 women with type 2 diabetes, 303 women with gestational diabetes and 15,260 control women were included, who delivered between March 2004 and February 2014. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to compare maternal and pregnancy characteristics. Risk of fetal distress and perinatal asphyxia was assessed by multiple regression analyses, adjusted for confounding factors as age, smoking, parity, previous cesarean section, hypertensive disorder, pre-eclampsia, prematurity, induction of labor and macrosomia. Main outcome measure was fetal distress, defined either as clinical indication for instrumental or cesarean delivery; or low umbilical artery pH (UA pH), or admission to neonatal unit (NU). RESULTS: The indication for instrumental or cesarean delivery in women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes mellitus was more frequently based on fetal distress as compared to controls (adjusted OR 2.76 CI 1.74-4.40 and adjusted OR 2.31 CI 1.19-4.51, respectively). In comparison with the control group, infants of women with type 1 diabetes had an increased risk of UA pH < 7.20 (adjusted OR 1.88 CI 1.23-2.87) or UA pH < 7.10 (adjusted OR 3.35 CI 1.79-6.27). Also, infants of women with type 1 diabetes were at increased risk for admission to NU as compared to infants of control women (OR 8.07 CI 4.75-13.70). CONCLUSIONS: Women with type 1 and type 2 diabetes are at increased risk of fetal distress during labor as compared to controls.

Neonatal gastric perforations in very low birth weight infants: a single center experience and review of the literature.

PURPOSE: Gastric perforation is a rare condition with high mortality rates in preterm infants. The aim of this retrospective study was to define the risk factors and prognosis in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants with gastric perforations. METHODS: VLBW infants with a diagnosis of gastric perforation between 2012 and 2016 were included. The data including birth weight, gestational age, gender, risk factors, time and location of the perforation and prognosis were recorded. RESULTS: A total of eight infants were identified. The median gestational age and birth weight of the infants were 26 weeks and 860 g, respectively. Five were male and 6 (75%) had a diagnosis of hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (PDA), early sepsis, persistent hypotension, and drug administration (paracetamol, ibuprofen). The main clinical finding was abdominal distension and pneumoperitoneum was detected in all infants. The median diagnosis was 6 days of life. The median perforation size was 2.5 cm and curvature major and anterior wall were the most common locations. The mortality rate was 62.5%. CONCLUSION: Male gender, chorioamnionitis, early sepsis, asphyxia, hemodynamic PDA, persistent hypotension, ibuprofen and paracetamol usage, and orogastric catheter administration were the main risk factors for gastric perforations in VLBW infants.

Factores asociados a epilepsia en niños en México: un estudio caso-control / Factors associated with epilepsy in children in Mexico: A case-control study

Resumen: Introducción: La epilepsia es la enfermedad neurológica crónica más común en el mundo. En México es considerada dentro de las principales enfermedades vinculadas a la mortalidad por enfermedades no infecciosas de la población infantil. El objetivo del estudio fue identificar los factores asociados a epilepsia en niños derechohabientes del Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social (IMSS), en Acapulco, México. Métodos: Estudio de casos y controles realizado entre abril de 2010 y abril de 2011. Fueron seleccionados 118 casos de la consulta externa de neurología pediátrica, con criterios diagnósticos de epilepsia de acuerdo a la Liga Internacional Contra la Epilepsia, con máximo dos años de evolución. Los controles fueron seleccionados de las Unidades de Medicina Familiar de donde procedieron los casos. En una encuesta a las madres, se obtuvo información sobre antecedentes heredofamiliares, prenatales, perinatales y posnatales. El análisis bivariado y multivariado se realizó mediante el procedimiento de Mantel-Haenszel. Resultados: Tres factores estuvieron asociados con la epilepsia: el antecedente familiar de epilepsia en familiares de primer grado (Razón de Momios ajustada (RMa) 2.44, IC95% 1.18 - 5.03), la asfixia al nacimiento (RMa 2.20, IC95% 1.16-34.18) y la infección de la vía urinaria en la etapa prenatal (RMa, 1.80 IC95% 1.0 - 3.24). Conclusiones: La asfixia al nacimiento y el reporte de infecciones de vías urinarias durante la gestación fueron factores asociados a epilepsia independientemente del antecedente de epilepsia en familiares de primer grado.

Abstract: Background: Epilepsy is the most common chronic neurological disease in the world. In Mexico, epilepsy is among the diseases more related to mortality due to non-infectious diseases in children. The objective of the study was to identify the factors associated with epilepsy in children entitled to the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), in Acapulco, Mexico. Methods: We carried out a case-control study from April 2010 to April 2011. We selected 118 cases from the database of outpatient pediatric neurology with epilepsy diagnostic with two year of evolution according to the International League Against Epilepsy criteria. We selected 118 controls from the same Medical Units where cases were detected. Data collected throughout an interview with the mothers included information on history of epilepsy among relatives, prenatal, perinatal and postnatal history. Bivariate and multivariate analysis was performed using Mantel-Haenszel process. Results: Multivariate analysis identified three factors associated with epilepsy: family history of epilepsy in first-degree relatives (adjusted Odds ratio (ORa) 2.44, 95%CI 1.18 -5.03), birth asphyxia (ORa 2.20, 95%CI 1.16-34.18), and urinary tract infection in the prenatal stage (ORa, 1.80, 95%CI 1.0 - 3.24). Conclusions: Preventing birth asphyxia and urinary tract infections during pregnancy reduces the risk of epilepsy regardless of the history of epilepsy in first-degree relatives.

Hipoxia perinatal en el Hospital Mederi de Bogotá: comportamiento en los años 2007 a 2011 / Perinatal hypoxia at Hospital Mederi in Bogotá: behavior in the period 2007-2011

RESUMEN Objetivo Identificar los factores de riesgo maternos, fetales y neonatales asociados a la hipoxia perinatal en los recién nacidos del Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi (HUM Mederi), período 2007 a 2011. Metodología Del total de recién nacidos (8 837) en los años 2007 a 2011, en el HUM Mederi, se tomaron los casos que presentaron asfixia perinatal (AP) según la ACOG u otro diagnóstico de Dificultad Respiratoria (DR). Fuente: Registros del sistema informático de Servicio de Neonatología del Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi. Se analizaron los factores de riesgo materno, fetal y neonatal. Los datos se mostraron de acuerdo al número de recién nacidos en cada grupo y en forma porcentual. Resultados La tasa de mortalidad global fue de 10,7. Los valores más bajos fueron en los años 2010 y 2011: 3.3 y 1.8 respectivamente. Diabetes gestacional, hipertensión, corioamnionitis y placenta previa fueron más frecuentes en el grupo con DR, mientras que hipoglicemia y sepsis lo fueron en el grupo con AP así como hipotonía e hipoacti-vidad entre las alteraciones neurológicas. Fue baja la correspondencia entre las alteraciones neurológicas y el Test de Apgar en los casos diagnosticados con AP. Conclusiones La tasa de mortalidad fue muy baja comparada a nivel regional y local. Hubo mayor número de recién nacidos con asfixia perinatal moderada. Los resultados del estudio coinciden con lo reportado. El mayor número de pre-término en los recién nacidos con DR enfatiza la importancia de controlar el implemento de acciones para disminuir los factores de riesgo asociados a esta condición.

ABSTRACT Objective To identify maternal, fetal and neonatal risk factors associated with perinatal hypoxia in neonates at Hospital Universitario Mayor Mederi (HUM Mederi) from 2007 to 2011. Methodology In the period 2007-2011, 8 837 children were born in HUM Mederi. Only the cases that presented with perinatal asphyxia (PA), according to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), or another respiratory distress (RD) diagnosis were considered for this analysis, based on the computer records of the Neonatology Service in HUM Mederi. Maternal, fetal and neonatal risk factors were analyzed. Data were shown according to the number of newborns in each group and their percentage. Results The overall mortality rate was 10.7. The lowest values were found in 2010 and 2011 (3.3 and 1.8, respectively). Gestational diabetes, hypertension, chorioamnionitis and placenta previa were more frequent in the RD group, whereas hypoglycemia, sepsis, hypotonia and hypoactivity among neurological alterations were more common in the PA group. Correspondence between neurological alterations and Apgar Test was low in the cases diagnosed with PA. Conclusions The mortality rate was very low compared to regional and local levels, and more infants presented with moderate perinatal asphyxia. These results coincide with literature reports. The high number of preterm births with DR emphasizes the importance of controlling the implementation of actions to reduce the risk factors associated with this condition.

Risk factors associated with the development of perinatal asphyxia in neonates at the Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia, 2010-2011 / Factores de riesgo asociados con el desarrollo de asfixia perinatal en neonatos en el Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia, 2010-2011

Abstract Introduction: Perinatal asphyxia is one of the main causes of perinatal mortality and morbidity worldwide and it generates high costs for health systems; however, it has modifiable risk factors. Objective: To identify the risk factors associated with the development of perinatal asphyxia in newborns at Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia. Materials and methods: Incident cases and concurrent controls were examined. Cases were defined as newborns with moderate to severe perinatal asphyxia who were older than or equal to 36 weeks of gestational age, needed advanced resuscitation and presented one of the following: early neurological disorders, multi-organ commitment or a sentinel event. The controls were newborns without asphyxia who were born one week apart from the case at the most and had a comparable gestational age. Patients with major congenital malformations and syndromes were excluded. Results: Fifty-six cases and 168 controls were examined. Premature placental abruption (OR=41.09; 95%CI: 4.61-366.56), labor with a prolonged expulsive phase (OR=31.76; 95%CI: 8.33-121.19), lack of oxytocin use (OR=2.57; 95% CI: 1.08 - 6.13) and mothers without a partner (OR=2.56; 95% CI: 1.21-5.41) were risk factors for the development of perinatal asphyxia in the study population. Social difficulties were found in a greater proportion among the mothers of cases. Conclusions: Proper control and monitoring of labor, development of a thorough partograph, and active searches are recommended to ensure that all pregnant women have adequate prenatal care with the provision of social support to reduce the frequency and negative impact of perinatal asphyxia.

Resumen Introducción: La asfixia perinatal constituye una de las principales causas de morbilidad y mortalidad perinatal en el mundo, tiene factores de riesgo modificables y genera altos costos para los sistemas de salud. Objetivo: Determinar los factores de riesgo asociados al desarrollo de asfixia perinatal en recién nacidos en el Hospital Universitario del Valle, Cali, Colombia. Materiales y métodos: Se llevó a cabo un estudio de casos incidentes y controles concurrentes. Los casos se definieron como neonatos con asfixia perinatal moderada a grave, de edad de gestación mayor o igual a 36 semanas, que requirieron reanimación avanzada y presentaron, al menos, una de las siguientes condiciones: alteraciones neurológicas tempranas, falla orgánica múltiple o aparición de un evento centinela. Los controles se definieron como neonatos sin diagnóstico de asfixia, nacidos hasta con una semana de diferencia con respecto al caso y de edad de gestación comparable. Se excluyeron los pacientes con malformaciones congénitas mayores y síndromes. Resultados: Se estudiaron 56 casos y 168 controles. El desprendimiento prematuro de la placenta (odds ratio, OR=41,09; IC95% 4,61-366,56), un trabajo de parto con fase expulsiva prolongada (OR=31,76; IC95% 8,33-121,19), no usar oxitocina (OR=2,57; IC95% 1,08-6,13) y ser madre soltera (OR=2,56; IC95% 1,21-5,41) fueron factores de riesgo para el desarrollo de asfixia perinatal en la población bajo estudio. En las madres de los casos se encontraron dificultades sociales en mayor proporción. Conclusiones: Se recomienda un control adecuado y una vigilancia apropiada del trabajo de parto, hacer un estricto partograma, y una búsqueda activa, de manera que cada mujer embarazada tenga un adecuado control prenatal y reciba apoyo social.

¿Es posible disminuir la incidencia de encefalopatía hipóxico isquémica? / Is it possible to reduce the incidence of hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy?

Objetivo: Determinar si una política local, establecida en la Maternidad del Hospital Padre Hurtado (HPH), para bajar la incidencia de Encefalopatía Hipóxico Isquémica es efectiva, sin incrementar en forma relevante la tasa de cesáreas. Diseño: Estudio de cohorte. Escenario: Unidad de Gestión Clínica de la Mujer y el Recién Nacido del Hospital Padre Hurtado. Población: Neonatos mayores de 33 semanas de edad gestacional, nacidos en el Hospital Padre Hurtado durante los años 1999 y 2015. Método: Se revisaron los resultados de una política de intervención para prevención de asfixia neonatal establecida en la Maternidad del Hospital Padre Hurtado durante un periodo de 14 años. Resultados: Al analizar los datos de un total de 102.612 nacidos vivos, se constató una disminución en la incidencia de EHI en sus 3 grados de una tasa de 4.75/1.000 nacidos vivos previo a la intervención (grupo control) a una tasa de 1.46 por 1.000 nacidos vivos post intervenciones, con alta significancia estadística (p=0,008), llegando en los últimos 6 años a tasa promedio de 0.87/1.000 nacidos vivos. La tasa de EHI moderada y severa bajó de 1.15 por mil nacidos vivos a 0.62, también con alta significancia estadística (p=0.02). La tasa de cesáreas oscilo entre 26-29 % en estos años. Conclusión: La introducción de intervenciones protocolizadas y sistematizadas por medio de la implementación de guías de manejo del trabajo de parto, la capacitación del equipo de profesionales y la auditoría continua de los casos de EHI en el Servicio de Maternidad del Hospital Padre Hurtado se asoció a una disminución significativa de EHI, manteniendo la tasa de cesáreas bajo 30%.

Objectives: Determine whether a local policy to reduce the incidence of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE), established at the Maternity Unit of Hospital Padre Hurtado (HPH), is effective without significantly increasing the cesarean rate. Design: Cohort study. Setting: Maternity unit of Hospital Padre Hurtado. Population: Newborns older than 33 weeks born at Hospital Padre Hurtado between 1999 and 2015. Methods: The results of a training policy to prevent HIE and perinatal asphyxia established at the Maternity unit of Hospital Padre Hurtado were reviewed during a period of 14 years. Results: From a total of 102.612 newborns analyzed, results showed a decrease in all grades of HIE incidence, from a rate of 4.75 / 1,000 live births prior to intervention (control group) to a rate of 1.46 per 1,000 live births after interventions, with high statistically significance (p=0.008), it reached an average rate of 0.87/1000 for the last 6 years. The moderate and severe HIE rate decreased from 1.15/1000 to 0.62/1000, also with high statistically significance (p=0.02). During the same period of time, the cesarean rate varied between 26-29%. Conclusion: The introduction of protocolized and systematized interventions trough the implantation of Management guides, obstetrics emergency trainings to the professional team and continues audit of the HIE cases at the Maternity unit Hospital Padre Hurtado was associated to a significant decrease of HIE, maintaining the rate of cesareans below 30%.

Change of cystatin C values in preterm infants with asphyxia-From two centers of China.

BACKGROUND: To explore the values of cystatin C (Cys-C) in asphyxial preterm babies as an effective endogenous marker of renal function. METHODS: After birth, preterm infants with 5-minute Apgar score <8 were included into the asphyxia group. Finally, 276 preterm infants born in two neonatal intensive care units were studied (including 78 babies in the asphyxia group and 198 babies in the control group). Blood samples were obtained from peripheral veins on day 1, day 7, and day 28 when routine blood screening tests were performed. RESULTS: In first day samples, the mean levels of Cys-C were 2.21 (1.49-2.98) mg/L with gestational age (GA) >32, 1.94 (1.37-2.76) mg/L with GA 28-32, and 1.87 (1.49-2.13) mg/L with GA <28 in the asphyxia group. In seventh day samples, the mean levels of Cys-C were 2.35 (1.57-3.26) mg/L with GA>32, 2.07 (1.42-2.90) mg/L with GA 28-32, and 1.69 (1.13-2.04) mg/L with GA <28. In twenty-eighth day samples, the mean levels of Cys-C were 1.92 (1.61-2.13) mg/L with GA>32, 1.79 (1.29-1.84) mg/L with GA 28-32, and 1.66 (1.21-2.10) mg/L GA <28. There were significant differences not only between the asphyxia and control groups, but also between the mild, moderate, and severe asphyxia groups. CONCLUSION: Cys-C has a good distinguishability in asphyxial neonates in spite of gestational age or birth weight in the Chinese population. Further studies with large numbers of cases are required to assess whether Cys-C could replace creatinine (Cr) and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) as an endogenous marker of renal function.

Inter-pregnancy Weight Change and Risks of Severe Birth-Asphyxia-Related Outcomes in Singleton Infants Born at Term: A Nationwide Swedish Cohort Study.

BACKGROUND: Maternal overweight and obesity are associated with increased risks of birth-asphyxia-related outcomes, but the mechanisms are unclear. If a change of exposure (i.e., maternal body mass index [BMI]) over time influences risks, this would be consistent with a causal relationship between maternal BMI and offspring risks. Our objective was to investigate associations between changes in maternal BMI between consecutive pregnancies and risks of birth-asphyxia-related outcomes in the second offspring born at term. METHODS AND FINDINGS: This study was a prospective population-based cohort study that included 526,435 second-born term (≥37 wk) infants of mothers with two consecutive live singleton term births in Sweden between January 1992 and December 2012. We estimated associations between the difference in maternal BMI between the first and second pregnancy and risks of low Apgar score (0-6) at 5 min, neonatal seizures, and meconium aspiration in the second-born offspring. Odds ratios (ORs) were adjusted for BMI at first pregnancy, maternal height, maternal age at second delivery, smoking, education, mother´s country of birth, inter-pregnancy interval, and year of second delivery. Analyses were also stratified by BMI (<25 versus ≥25 kg/m2) in the first pregnancy. Risks of low Apgar score, neonatal seizures, and meconium aspiration increased with inter-pregnancy weight gain. Compared with offspring of mothers with stable weight (BMI change of -1 to <1 kg/m2), the adjusted OR for a low Apgar score in the offspring of mothers with a BMI change of 4 kg/m2 or more was 1.33 (95% CI 1.12-1.58). The corresponding risks for neonatal seizures and meconium aspiration were 1.42 (95% CI 1.00-2.02) and 1.78 (95% CI 1.19-2.68), respectively. The increased risk of neonatal seizures related to weight gain appeared to be restricted to mothers with BMI < 25 kg/m2 in the first pregnancy. A study limitation was the lack of data on the effects of obstetric interventions and neonatal resuscitation efforts. CONCLUSIONS: Risks of birth-asphyxia-related outcomes increased with maternal weight gain between pregnancies. Preventing weight gain before and in between pregnancies may improve neonatal health.

Contributory factors and potentially avoidable neonatal encephalopathy associated with perinatal asphyxia.

BACKGROUND: The recently published monograph, Neonatal encephalopathy and neurologic outcome, from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists calls for a root cause analysis to identify components of care that contributed to cases of neonatal encephalopathy to design better practices, surveillance mechanisms, and systems. All cases of infants born in New Zealand with moderate and severe neonatal encephalopathy were reported to the New Zealand Perinatal and Maternal Mortality Review Committee from 2010. A national clinical review of these individual cases has not previously been undertaken. OBJECTIVES: The objective of the study was to undertake a multidisciplinary structured review of all cases of neonatal encephalopathy that arose following the onset of labor in the absence of acute peripartum events in 2010-2011 to determine the frequency of contributory factors, the proportion of potentially avoidable morbidity and mortality and to identify themes for quality improvement. STUDY DESIGN: National identification of, and collection of clinical records on, cases of moderate or severe neonatal encephalopathy occurring after the onset of labor in the absence of an acute peripartum event, excluding those with normal gases and Apgar scores at 1 minute, among all cases of moderate and severe neonatal encephalopathy at term in New Zealand in 2010-2011 was undertaken. Cases were included if they had abnormal gases as defined by any of pH of ≤ 7.2, base excess of ≤ -10, or lactate of ≥ 6 or if there were no cord gases, an Apgar score at 1 minute of ≤ 7. A clinical case review was undertaken by a multidisciplinary team using a structured tool to record contributory factors (organization and/or management, personnel, and barriers to access and/or engagement with care), potentially avoidable morbidity and mortality and to identify themes to guide quality improvement. RESULTS: Eighty-three babies fulfilled the inclusion criteria for the review, 56 moderate (67%) and 27 severe (33%), 21 (25%) of whom were deceased prior to hospital discharge. Eighty-four percent of 64 babies with cord gas results had one of pH of ≤ 7.0, base excess of ≤ -12, or lactate of ≥ 6; and 42% (8 of 19) without cord gases had 5 minute Apgar scores < 5. Excluding 5 babies who died within a day of birth, all but 1 baby were admitted to a neonatal unit within 1 day of birth. Contributory factors were identified in 84% of 83 cases, most commonly personnel factors (76%). Fifty-five percent of cases with morbidity or mortality were considered to be potentially avoidable, and 52% of cases were considered potentially avoidable because of personnel factors. The most frequently identified theme related to the use and interpretation of cardiotocography in labor. CONCLUSION: A multidisciplinary case review of neonatal encephalopathy following apparently uncomplicated labor identified a high rate of potentially avoidable morbidity and mortality and issues amenable to quality improvement such as multidisciplinary training of staff in fetal surveillance in labor.

Pregnancy planning in type 1 diabetic women improves glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: Pregnancy in women with type 1 diabetes is associated with increased risks. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of pregnancy planning on outcomes of type 1 diabetic pregnancies. METHODS: We retrospectively assessed pregnancy outcomes of type 1 diabetic women who were patients of Diabetes Clinic of North Karelia hospital between 2000 and 2012. We evaluated the medical records of 73 women experiencing 145 pregnancies and data of their infants. RESULTS: Altogether 96 (66.2%) pregnancies were planned. HbA1c levels were significantly lower before and during the whole pregnancy when pregnancy was planned than if it was not planned (all p <0.001). Planned pregnancies resulted in significantly fewer congenital anomalies (p <0.001). Pregnancy planning reduced the age-adjusted risk of Cesarean sections (OR 0.25, p = 0.021). Pregnancy planning was associated with a reduced risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes (including miscarriages and congenital anomalies). This association was independent of age, HbA1c before pregnancy, smoking, hypertension, microvascular complications, and thyroid disease (OR 0.26; 95% CI 0.09, 0.76). CONCLUSIONS: Pregnancy planning is beneficial for glycemic control and pregnancy outcomes of type 1 diabetic women. The benefit of pregnancy planning was independent of other risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Adverse perinatal outcomes for advanced maternal age: a cross-sectional study of Brazilian births / Resultados perinatais adversos em mulheres com idade materna avançada: estudo transversal com nascimentos brasileiros

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVES: To investigate the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes in women aged ≥41 years relatively to those aged 21-34. METHODS: Approximately 8.5 million records of singleton births in Brazilian hospitals in the period 2004-2009 were investigated. Odds ratios were estimated for preterm and post-term births, for low Apgar scores at 1 min and at 5 min, for asphyxia, for low birth weight, and for macrosomia. RESULTS: For pregnant women ≥41, increased risks were identified for preterm births, for post-term births (except for primiparous women with schooling ≥12 years), and for low birth weight. When comparing older vs. younger women, higher educational levels ensure similar risks of low Apgar score at 1 min (for primiparous mothers and term births), of low Apgar score at 5 min (for term births), of macrosomia (for non-primiparous women), and of asphyxia. CONCLUSION: As a rule, older mothers are at higher risk of adverse perinatal outcomes, which, however, may be mitigated or eliminated, depending on gestational age, parity, and, especially, on the education level of the pregnant woman.

RESUMO OBJETIVOS: Investigar o risco de resultados perinatais adversos em mulheres ≥ 41 anos relativamente àquelas com idade 21-34. MÉTODOS: Cerca de 8,5 milhões de registros de nascimentos únicos em hospitais brasileiros no período 2004-2009 foram investigados. Odds ratios foram estimados para nascimentos prematuros e pós-termo, baixos índices de Apgar no 1° e 5° minutos, asfixia, baixo peso ao nascer e macrossomia. RESULTADOS: Para as mulheres grávidas ≥ 41, aumento de riscos foram identificados para nascimentos prematuros, partos pós-termo (com exceção de primíparas com escolaridade ≥ 12 anos) e baixo peso ao nascer. Relativamente a mulheres mais velhas vs. mais jovens, maiores níveis de escolaridade garantem riscos semelhantes de baixo índice de Apgar no 1° minuto (para primíparas e nascimentos a termo), de baixo índice de Apgar no 5° minuto (para nascimentos a termo), de macrossomia (para não primíparas) e de asfixia. CONCLUSÃO: Em geral, mães mais velhas estão sob maiores riscos de desfechos perinatais adversos, mas esses são minimizados ou eliminados a depender da idade gestacional, da paridade e, em especial, da escolaridade da gestante.

Prolonged second stage of labor is associated with low Apgar score.

There is no consensus on the effects of a prolonged second stage of labor on neonatal outcomes. In this large Swedish population-based cohort study, our objective was to investigate prolonged second stage and risk of low Apgar score at 5 min. All nulliparous women (n = 32,796) delivering a live born singleton infant in cephalic presentation at ≥37 completed weeks after spontaneous onset of labor between 2008 and 2012 in the counties of Stockholm and Gotland were included. Data were obtained from computerized records. Exposure was time from fully retracted cervix until delivery. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Adjustments were made for maternal age, height, BMI, smoking, sex, gestational age, sex-specific birth weight for gestational age and head circumference. Epidural analgesia was included in a second model. The primary outcome measure was Apgar score at 5 min <7 and <4. We found that the overall rates of 5 min Apgar score <7 and <4 were 7.0 and 1.3 per 1000 births, respectively. Compared to women with <1 h from retracted cervix to birth, adjusted ORs of Apgar score <7 at 5 min generally increased with length of second stage of labor: 1 to <2 h: OR 1.78 (95% CI 1.19-2.66); 2 to <3 h: OR 1.66 (1.05-2.62); 3 to <4 h: OR 2.08 (1.29-3.35); and ≥4 h: OR 2.71 (1.67-4.40). We conclude that prolonged second stage of labor is associated with an increased risk of low 5 min Apgar score.

Morbidity and mortality associated with mode of delivery for breech periviable deliveries.

OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to estimate the odds of morbidity and death that are associated with cesarean delivery, compared with vaginal delivery, for breech fetuses who are delivered from 23-24 6/7 weeks' gestational age. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of state-level maternal and infant hospital discharge data that were linked to vital statistics for breech deliveries that occurred from 23-24 6/7 weeks' gestation in California, Missouri, and Pennsylvania from 2000-2009 (N = 1854). Analyses were stratified by gestational age (23-23 6/7 vs 24-24 6/7 weeks' gestation). RESULTS: Cesarean delivery was performed for 46% (335 fetuses) and 77% (856 fetuses) of 23- and 24-week breech fetuses. In multivariable analyses, overall survival was greater for cesarean-born neonates (adjusted odds ratio [AOR], 3.98; 95% confidence interval [CI], 2.24-7.06; AOR, 2.91; 95% CI, 1.76-4.81, respectively). When delivered for nonemergent indications, cesarean-born survivors were more than twice as likely to experience major morbidity (intraventricular hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, necrotizing enterocolitis, asphyxia composite; AOR, 2.83; 95% CI, 1.37-5.84; AOR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.11-3.86 at 23 and 24 weeks' gestation, respectively). Among intubated neonates, despite a short-term survival advantage, there was no difference in survival to >6-month corrected age (AOR, 1.77; 95% CI, 0.83-3.74; AOR, 1.50; 95% CI, 0.81-2.76, respectively). There was no difference in survival for intubated 23-week neonates who were delivered by cesarean for nonemergent indications or cesarean-born neonates who weighed <500 g. CONCLUSION: Cesarean delivery increased overall survival and major morbidity for breech periviable neonates. However, among intubated neonates, despite a short-term survival advantage, there was no difference in 6-month survival. Also, cesarean delivery did not increase survival for neonates who weighed <500 g. Patients and providers should discuss explicitly the trade-offs related to neonatal death and morbidity, maternal morbidity, and implications for future pregnancies.

Maternal overweight and obesity and risks of severe birth-asphyxia-related complications in term infants: a population-based cohort study in Sweden.

BACKGROUND: Maternal overweight and obesity increase risks of pregnancy and delivery complications and neonatal mortality, but the mechanisms are unclear. The objective of the study was to investigate associations between maternal body mass index (BMI) in early pregnancy and severe asphyxia-related outcomes in infants delivered at term (≥37 weeks). METHODS AND FINDINGS: A nation-wide Swedish cohort study based on data from the Medical Birth Register included all live singleton term births in Sweden between 1992 and 2010. Logistic regression analyses were used to obtain odds ratios (ORs) with 95% CIs for Apgar scores between 0 and 3 at 5 and 10 minutes, meconium aspiration syndrome, and neonatal seizures, adjusted for maternal height, maternal age, parity, mother's smoking habits, education, country of birth, and year of infant birth. Among 1,764,403 term births, 86% had data on early pregnancy BMI and Apgar scores. There were 1,380 infants who had Apgar score 0-3 at 5 minutes (absolute risk  = 0.8 per 1,000) and 894 had Apgar score 0-3 at 10 minutes (absolute risk  = 0.5 per 1,000). Compared with infants of mothers with normal BMI (18.5-24.9), the adjusted ORs (95% CI) for Apgar scores 0-3 at 10 minutes were as follows: BMI 25-29.9: 1.32 (1.10-1.58); BMI 30-34.9: 1.57 (1.20-2.07); BMI 35-39.9: 1.80 (1.15-2.82); and BMI ≥40: 3.41 (1.91-6.09). The ORs for Apgar scores 0-3 at 5 minutes, meconium aspiration, and neonatal seizures increased similarly with maternal BMI. A study limitation was lack of data on effects of obstetric interventions and neonatal resuscitation efforts. CONCLUSION: Risks of severe asphyxia-related outcomes in term infants increase with maternal overweight and obesity. Given the high prevalence of the exposure and the severity of the outcomes studied, the results are of potential public health relevance and should be confirmed in other populations. Prevention of overweight and obesity in women of reproductive age is important to improve perinatal health.

Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes in women following gastric bypass: a Danish national cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: To assess obstetrical and neonatal outcomes in women following gastric bypass, compared with adipose women without surgery and with a normal weight control population. DESIGN: Historical controlled cohort study. SETTING: Denmark. POPULATION: All women undergoing gastric bypass during the period 1996-2011, and subsequently giving birth. METHODS AND MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Obstetrical and neonatal outcomes in women without gastric bypass matched on age, parity, plurality, year, and body mass index, and normal weight women. RESULTS: In 415 women giving birth after gastric bypass we found significantly more women with hypertension in pregnancy; relative risk (RR) 2.5 (95% confidence interval 1.3-5.0), gestational diabetes; RR = 6.9 (3.5-13.5), and acute abdominal pain during pregnancy; RR = 4.7 (2.9-7.8) compared with normal weight controls. Compared with women with similar body mass index, they had a lower incidence of preeclampsia and emergency cesarean sections, and their children a lower incidence of asphyxia; RR = 0.4 (0.2-0.8). Their children were on average 212 g smaller than newborn of normal weight mothers, and 319 g smaller than newborn of adipose controls, and had significantly more admissions to neonatal intensive care unit compared with newborn of normal weight mothers; RR = 1.5 (1.1-2.0). CONCLUSIONS: Gastric bypass may reduce the risk of preeclampsia, emergency cesarean section, and perinatal asphyxia, compared with adipose women without surgery. Compared with normal weight controls women who had had a gastric bypass had a higher risk of hypertension, gestational diabetes, and acute abdominal pain during pregnancy and their children a lower birthweight and higher incidence of admittance to neonatal intensive care.

[The influence of ecological and socio-biological risk factors on the course of for pregnancy, birth, and fetal state].

The features of prenatal and social history of 857 children in Kirov, as well as indices of aerotechnogenic pollution in the place of their residence have been studied In the investigated region the existence of ecological (aerotechnogenic pollution) and socio-biological (maternal smoking and psychological trauma) risk factors for prenatal pathologies affecting the mother organism during pregnancy was established. Habitation in this region complicates the course of pregnancy and childbirth (increasing the risk of complicated course of pregnancy and maternity aid), worsens the condition of the fetus (increased risk of neonatal asphyxia) and increases the chance of twins.