Midterm complications after primary obstetrical anal sphincter injury repair in France.

BACKGROUND: Incidence of complications following obstetrical anal sphincter injury (OASI) during vaginal delivery are poorly defined. They are only studied in high level maternities, small cohorts, all stages of perineal tear or in low-income countries. The aim of our study was to describe complications after primary OASI repair following a vaginal delivery in all French maternity wards at short and midterm and to assess factors associated with complication occurrence. METHODS: We conducted a historical cohort study using the French nationwide claim database (PMSI) from January 2013 to December 2021. All women who sustained an OASI repair following a vaginal delivery were included and virtually followed-up for 2 years. Then, we searched for OASIS complications. Finally, we evaluated factors associated with OASIS complication repaired or not and OASIS complication repairs. RESULTS: Among the 61,833 included women, 2015 (2.8%) had an OASI complication and 842 (1.16%) underwent an OASI complication repair. Women were mainly primiparous (71.6%) and 44.3% underwent an instrumental delivery. During a follow-up of 2 years, 0.6% (n = 463), 0.3% (n = 240), 0.2% (n = 176), 0.1% (n = 84), 0.06% (n = 43) and 0.01% (n = 5) of patients underwent second surgery for a perineal repair, a fistula repair, a sphincteroplasty, a perineal infection, a colostomy and a sacral nervous anal stimulation, respectively. Only one case of artificial anal sphincter was noticed. Instrumental deliveries (OR = 1.56 CI95%[1.29;1.9]), private for-profit hospitals (OR = 1.42 [1.11;1.82], reference group "public hospital"), obesity (OR = 1.36 [1;1.84]), stage IV OASIS (OR = 2.98 [2.4;3.72]), perineal wound breakdown (OR = 2.8 [1.4;5.48]), ages between 25 and 29 years old (OR = 1.59 [1.17;2.18], refence group "age between 13 and 24 years old") and 30 and 34 years old (OR = 1.57 [1.14; 2.16], refence group "age between 13 and 24 years old") were factors associated with OASIS complication repairs. CONCLUSIONS: Maternal age, stage IV OASIS, obesity, instrumental deliveries and private for-profit hospitals seemed to predict OASIS complications. Understanding factors associated with OASIS complications could be beneficial for the patient to inform them and to influence the patient's follow-up in order to prevent complications, repairs and maternal distress.

The burden of iatrogenic obstetric fistulas in Sub-Saharan Africa: Systematic review and meta-analysis protocol.

BACKGROUND: Obstetric fistulas are abnormal open connection(s) between the vagina and the urinary tract or the rectum resulting from tragic injuries sustained by mothers during childbirth that lead to urine and/or faecal incontinence. Due to the rapidly growing middle class in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) and the corresponding quest for hospital delivery and caesarean section, surgery-related (iatrogenic) obstetric fistulas are on the rise. Worryingly, there is scanty data on surgery-related fistulas. This review aims to collate empirical evidence on the magnitude of iatrogenic obstetric fistulas in SSA, generate country-specific data and explore factors that influence obstetric surgery-related fistulas. METHODS: All relevant databases, PubMed, LILACS, CINAHL, SCOPUS and Google Scholar will be searched from 1st January 2000 to 31st March 2024 using search terms developed from the major concepts in the title without restrictions by language. The Cochrane Library, African Journals Online, Data Base of African Thesis and Dissertations Including Research (DATAD-R D Space) and preprint repositories will also be searched. Reference lists of relevant studies will be searched and experts in the field will be contacted for additional (unpublished) studies. The search output will be exported to Endnote where duplicate studies will be removed. The deduplicated studies will be exported to Rayyan where study screening and selection will be conducted. At least two authors will independently select studies, extract data and assess quality in the included studies using pretested tools. Disagreements between reviewers will be resolved through discussion. Data analysis will be performed with RevMan 5.4. Comparative binary outcomes will be reported as odds ratio (OR) or risk ratio (RR) and for continuous outcomes, mean difference and standard deviations (SDs) will be used. Non-comparative studies will be analysed as weighted proportions. Heterogeneity between studies will be assessed graphically and statistically, and where a significant level is detected, the random-effects model meta-analysis will be performed. All estimates will be reported with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Where data permit, we will conduct subgroup and sensitivity analyses to test the robustness of the estimates on key quality domains. The overall quality of the evidence will be assessed using GRADE (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation). EXPECTED STUDY OUTCOMES: This systematic review and meta-analysis uses rigorous methods and best practices to attempt to collate all empirical evidence and estimate country-specific proportions of iatrogenic (surgery-related) fistulas among obstetric fistula patients across countries in SSA. This review will explore context-specific variables, provide insights into their impact and relate them to the type and experience of personnel performing the obstetric procedures that lead to obstetric fistulas. The findings of the full review are expected to inform the development of national and regional Training Programs for Medical Officers, support the development of a consensus "minimum acceptable standard of care" and inform quality assurance standards for clinicians involved in the provision of surgical obstetric care.

Trauma-informed support after a complicated childbirth - An early intervention to reduce symptoms of post-traumatic stress, fear of childbirth and mental illness.

OBJECTIVE: Women who experience obstetric interventions and complications during childbirth have an increased risk of developing postnatal post-traumatic stress and mental illness. This study aimed to test the effect of a trauma-informed support programme based on psychological first aid (PFA) to reduce the mothers' symptoms of stress, fear of childbirth (FOC), anxiety and depression after a complicated childbirth. METHODS: The study population consisted of women ≥ 18 years old who had undergone a complicated childbirth (i.e. acute or emergency caesarean section, vacuum extraction, child in need of neonatal care, manual placenta removal, obstetric anal sphincter injury, shoulder dystocia or major haemorrhage (>1000 ml)). A total of 101 women participated in the study, of whom 43 received the intervention. Demographic questions and three self-assessment instruments measuring stress symptoms, FOC, anxiety and depression were answered one to three months after birth. RESULTS: The women in the intervention group scored significantly lower on the stress symptom scale, with a halved median score compared to the control group. There was no significant difference between the groups regarding FOC, depression and anxiety. CONCLUSION: Our results indicate that this PFA-based support programme might reduce post-traumatic stress symptoms in women who have gone through a complicated childbirth. With further studies in a larger population, this support programme has the potential to contribute to improved maternal care optimizing postnatal mental health.

"I became a person again": Social inclusion and participation experiences of Ethiopian women post-obstetric fistula surgical repair.

BACKGROUND: Childbirth-related mortality and morbidity affect many women globally, especially in low-income countries like Ethiopia. Obstetric fistula-a preventable condition mainly caused by prolonged and obstructed labor-can lead to physical, psychological, and social challenges, affecting women's social participation and inclusion. OBJECTIVE: This study aims to understand women's social participation and inclusion experiences post-obstetric fistula surgery. METHODS: This study is part of a larger research project investigating the social inclusion process of women who have had obstetric fistula surgery in Ethiopia. For this study, we conducted a qualitative exploration of women's experiences, guided by a constructivist grounded theory approach. Twenty-one women discharged from fistula treatment facilities following obstetric fistula surgery were interviewed using a semi-structured interview guide. Data was analyzed using Charmaz's inductive analysis approach, which involves an initial line-by-line coding followed by focused coding to identify the most significant codes. Subsequently, sub-themes and themes were developed from the focused codes. RESULT: The data analysis revealed four themes reflecting the women's experiences of social participation and inclusion. These are the experience of recovery and the journey toward social participation, participating in expected and meaningful activities, the continued challenge with a romantic relationship, and formal and informal support. Overall, the women who received fistula surgery reported positive life changes, especially regarding their physical well-being. However, they continued to face social challenges such as financial hardship, reproductive health problems, and issues with marriage and family life, which negatively impacted their social participation and inclusion experiences. CONCLUSION: While more research is needed, the findings of this study suggest that the social aspects of obstetric fistula are crucial for healthcare professionals to consider. Providing appropriate care and support to address unmet social relationship, employment, and childcare needs could enable women to lead fulfilling lives.

A denigration curve to delineate the spread of communication about obstetric staff errors in Italy and its practical application.

Background: Mistrust of doctors and the desire for compensation are driving a rise in malpractice litigation worldwide. Aim: To estimate the extent to which Italians view birth complications as malpractice in obstetric care, and how widespread this perception is. Method: WhatsApp® and Facebook® contacts of one of the authors were invited to respond to an online questionnaire. The answers of 265 Italian respondents were used to estimate how common the perception of obstetric staff errors is and how this perception spreads over time: the denigration curve. To test if the denigration curve is reliable, the curve has been plotted along with the trend of the rate of litigation in Italy. Results: Almost a 50% of respondents deemed that birth complications are due to obstetric staff errors. The likelihood of the percep-tion that one has experienced a birth complication was 64.5%. The communication of obstetric staff error seemed low overall among the respondents. The denigration curve shape is almost coincident with the curve of claim rates in Italy, proving that it would be reliable. Conclusion: The respondents provided an estimate of the rate of birth complications that was higher than the real occurrence rate, and attributed these complications to obstetric staff errors. The denigration curve could predict whether and when there might be litigation related to any birth complications (both error related and non-error related).

A Postpartum Perineal Clinic in Nova Scotia: Characteristics Associated With Attendance and Its Association With Recurrent Obstetrical Anal Sphincter Tears.

OBJECTIVES: The Healthy Recovery after Childbirth Clinic (HRCC) in Nova Scotia provides postpartum care to patients who experience obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS). The purpose of this study was to describe characteristics associated with HRCC attendance, characteristics associated with a trial of labour in a subsequent delivery, and OASIS recurrence by HRCC attendance status. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study using the Atlee Perinatal Database and clinical record review included primiparous individuals who sustained an OASIS at IWK Health in Halifax between 2013 and 2020. The χ2 and Fisher exact tests were performed to compare groups. RESULTS: Of the 1041 individuals included, 67% attended HRCC. Attendance increased from 58% in 2013-2015 to 77% in 2019-2020. Younger age (<25 years) and smoking were associated with lower HRCC attendance (P = 0.07 and <0.01, respectively). Other characteristics, including area-level income and driving distance to HRCC, were not associated with attendance (P > 0.05). Of the 439 individuals who had a subsequent delivery, 92% had a trial of labour. Individuals with fourth-degree injury were less likely to attempt a trial of labour than those with third-degree injury (73% vs. 94%, P < 0.01). Of those who delivered vaginally, OASIS recurrence was similar in those who did and did not attend the HRCC (7.5% vs. 6.5%, P = 0.84). CONCLUSIONS: HRCC attendance was high, but the disparity by age and smoking status suggests some barriers to access that should be explored. Although we found no difference in OASIS recurrence by HRCC attendance, more research with larger samples with adjustment for confounders is needed.

[Vaginal delivery and perineal trauma : it's time to repair]. / Accouchement par voie basse et traumatisme périnéal : quand vient le temps de la reconstruction.

Perineal injuries can occur during vaginal delivery and they are harmful to anal function, sexuality, and overall quality of life of patients. Among the feared complications, anal incontinence, often difficult to address for both patients and caregivers, has a significant impact and must be looked for during the medical history. Clinical examination of the perineum and additional tests such as endoanal ultrasound and anorectal manometry confirm the diagnosis and guide the management. Treatment often relies on multiple modalities and depends on the interval between obstetric trauma and symptom onset. When indicated, perineal reconstruction surgery restores anatomy and function.

Des lésions périnéales peuvent survenir lors d'un accouchement par voie basse et avoir des conséquences néfastes sur la fonction anale, la sexualité et la qualité de vie globale des patientes. Parmi les complications redoutées, l'incontinence anale, souvent difficile à aborder pour les patientes et les soignants, a un retentissement important et doit être recherchée lors de l'anamnèse. L'examen clinique du périnée et les examens complémentaires tels que l'échographie endoanale et la manométrie anorectale permettent de confirmer le diagnostic et d'orienter la prise en charge. Le traitement repose souvent sur plusieurs modalités et dépend du délai entre le traumatisme obstétrical et la survenue des symptômes. Lorsqu'elle est indiquée, la chirurgie de reconstruction du périnée permet de restaurer l'anatomie et de rétablir la fonction.

Determinants of obstructed labour and associated outcomes in referral hospitals in Nigeria.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of obstructed labour, associated risk factors and outcomes across a network of referral hospitals in Nigeria. DESIGN: Retrospective observational study. SETTING: A total of 54 referral-level hospitals across the six geopolitical regions of Nigeria. POPULATION: Pregnant women who were diagnosed with obstructed labour during childbirth and subsequently underwent an emergency caesarean section between 1 September 2019 and 31 August 2020. METHODS: Secondary analysis of routine maternity care data sets. Random-effects multivariable logistic regression was used to ascertain the factors associated with obstructed labour. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Risk factors for obstructed labour and related postpartum complications, including intrapartum stillbirth, maternal death, uterine rupture, postpartum haemorrhage and sepsis. RESULTS: Obstructed labour was diagnosed in 1186 (1.7%) women. Among these women, 31 (2.6%) cases resulted in maternal death and 199 (16.8%) cases resulted in postpartum complications. Women under 20 years of age (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.50-2.75), who lacked formal education (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.55-2.30), were unemployed (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.57-2.41), were nulliparous (OR 2.11, 95% CI 1.83-2.43), did not receive antenatal care (OR 3.34, 95% CI 2.53-4.41) or received antenatal care in an informal healthcare setting (OR 8.18, 95% CI 4.41-15.14) were more likely to experience obstructed labour. Ineffective referral systems were identified as a major contributor to maternal death. CONCLUSIONS: Modifiable factors contributing to the prevalence of obstructed labour and associated adverse outcomes in Nigeria can be addressed through targeted policies and clinical interventions.

Correlation Between the Clinical Diagnosis and Sonographic Diagnosis in Women with First-Trimester Vaginal Bleeding.

BACKGROUND: Vaginal bleeding is the most common cause of presentation at the emergency department in the first trimester. Clinical presentation helps determine the likely cause of first-trimester vaginal bleeding. However, ultrasound imaging is required to reach a definitive diagnosis. OBJECTIVE: To determine the relationship between clinical diagnosis and ultrasonographic findings in women with first-trimester vaginal bleeding. METHODS: A prospective longitudinal study was conducted on 94 pregnant patients with a history of bleeding per vagina (PV) in the first trimester by using transvaginal ultrasound. RESULTS: PV spotting was noted in 64.9% and heavy bleeding in 35.1%. The most common clinically associated symptom was abdominal pain (68, 72.3%), and the least common clinically associated symptom was vesicle expulsion (2.1%). The most common predisposing factor was fever (31, 33.0%). The most frequent clinical diagnosis was threatened abortion (48, 51.1%), and the least common clinical diagnosis was gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD) and inevitable abortion (1, 1.1%). The most common ultrasound diagnosis at the initial scan was incomplete abortion (19.2%), while at follow-up scans, it was threatened abortion (48, 51.1%). The overall concordance between clinical diagnosis and ultrasound was 38.8%, with both complete abortion and GTD showing a concordance of 100%. The least concordance was seen in missed abortions (25%). CONCLUSION: Clinical assessment is insufficient in the identification of the cause of vaginal bleeding due to the overall low concordance rate. A combination of clinical assessment and ultrasonography is required for decision-making in every case.

Assistência ao parto pélvico / Breech birth assistance

É imprescindível retomar o ensino da versão cefálica externa e das manobras tocúrgicas no parto pélvico vaginal, tanto em litotomia quanto na posição vertical. A adoção de protocolos rígidos para o parto pélvico vaginal planejado correlaciona-se com taxa de sucesso de aproximadamente 70% e taxas de resultados adversos inferiores a 7%. A morbimortalidade fetal e neonatal é semelhante à de cesárea planejada. Gestantes elegíveis para o parto pélvico vaginal devem concordar com a via de parto, possuir baixo risco de complicações e ser assistidas por profissionais com experiência em parto vaginal de apresentações anômalas e suas manobras obstétricas. Cesariana prévia e prematuridade entre 32 e 36 semanas não são contraindicações absolutas ao parto pélvico vaginal, devendo ser individualmente avaliadas na decisão da via de parto. Neonatologistas devem estar presentes no nascimento de fetos pélvicos, e um exame neonatal completo deve ser realizado. A rotação posterior do dorso fetal, o prolapso de cordão umbilical, a deflexão dos braços e/ou do polo cefálico e o encarceramento da cabeça derradeira são as principais distocias relacionadas à assistência ao parto pélvico por via vaginal. Todo profissional que assiste parto pélvico vaginal deve estar capacitado para a resolução adequada desses eventos. No parto pélvico vaginal em litotomia, as principais manobras para o auxílio ao desprendimento da pelve fetal são a tração inferior bidigital na prega inguinal e a manobra de Pinard; para o desprendimento do tronco fetal, as de Rojas, Deventer-Miler e Pajot; e para o desprendimento da cabeça derradeira, as de Mauriceau, Bracht, Champetier de Ribes e Praga e o parto vaginal operatório com o fórcipe de Piper. As posições não litotômicas no parto pélvico vaginal se associam à redução dos períodos de dilatação e expulsão, da taxa de cesariana, da necessidade de manobras para extração fetal e da taxa de lesões neonatais. No parto pélvico vaginal assistido na posição de quatro apoios, os aspectos a serem observados durante o desprendimento do corpo fetal incluem o tônus dos membros inferiores fetais, a rotação correta do tronco fetal (abdome fetal voltado para o dorso materno), o ingurgitamento vascular do cordão umbilical, a presença dos cotovelos e das pregas do tórax fetal e a dilatação anal materna. No parto pélvico vaginal assistido na posição de quatro apoios, mais da metade dos fetos se desprendem sem a necessidade de nenhuma manobra. Habitualmente, apenas duas manobras podem ser necessárias: uma para auxílio à saída dos ombros ("rotação 180°-90°") e outra para desprendimento da cabeça fetal ("Frank nudge").

UK survey of colorectal surgeons on the management of acute obstetric anal sphincter injuries.

AIM: The role of colorectal surgeons in the management of acute obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) is an ongoing debate. Their expertise in operating in the anorectal region lends itself to assisting in OASI repair. The aim of this study was to establish the current involvement and recommended management of acute OASI by colorectal surgeons. METHOD: An online survey of consultant colorectal surgeons was sent to members of the Pelvic Floor Society to assess current involvement in acute OASI management and repair. RESULTS: Forty completed surveys were collated and analysed. Sixty-five per cent of respondents had seen an acute OASI since being a consultant and 50% stated they were involved in the repair of OASI less than once per year. 37.5% felt that a de-functioning stoma was still necessary sometimes. Many agreed with current guidelines for OASI repair in terms of antibiotics, laxatives and follow-up. CONCLUSIONS: Colorectal surgeons have varied opinions on the management of OASI. We suggest that multidisciplinary training of obstetricians and colorectal surgeons could lead to more collaboration regarding the management of women with acute OASI.

Factores de riesgo relacionados con las complicaciones de la hemorragia obstétrica / Risk factors related to complications of obstetric hemorrhage

Introducción: La hemorragia obstétrica es considerada una causa mayor de mortalidad materna. El reconocimiento de las mujeres con riesgo de desarrollar complicaciones durante la hemorragia obstétrica, es la primera acción para promover un tratamiento optimizado y evitar la muerte. Objetivo: Identificar los factores de riesgo de complicaciones en pacientes con hemorragia obstétrica. Métodos: Estudio observacional, analítico de casos y controles, con 12 casos (con complicaciones) y 24 controles (sin complicaciones). Se aplicó las medidas resúmenes para cada tipo de variables y la determinación de los factores de riesgos mediante la aplicación del odds ratio (OR), se utilizó el paquete estadístico SPSS versión 26.0, con un intervalo de confianza (IC) del 95 por ciento. Resultados: La combinación del choque hipovolémico, más la insuficiencia renal aguda, fue la complicación más frecuente para un 13,8 por ciento. Predominó la atonía uterina para un 50,0 por ciento como causa de hemorragia.Las variables predictivas de complicaciones fueron: el valor de creatinina ≥ 113 µmol/L (OR= 19,08; IC: 2,75-138,36), índice internacional normalizado ≥ 2 (OR= 4,66; IC: 1,46-14,90), hematocrito < 0,23 (OR= 4,00; IC: 1,76-9,08) y hemoglobina < 70 g/L (OR= 2,22; IC: 1,25-3,95). Conclusiones: La creatinina ≥ 113 µmol/L, índice internacional normalizado ≥ 2, hematocrito < 0,23 y hemoglobina < 70 g/L son los principales factores de riesgo identificados para el desarrollo de complicaciones durante la hemorragia obstétrica(AU)

Introduction: Obstetric hemorrhage is considered a major cause of maternal mortality. Recognition of women at risk of developing complications during obstetric hemorrhage is the first action to promote optimized treatment and avoid death. Objective: Identify risk factors for complications in patients with obstetric hemorrhage. Methods: Observational, analytical case-control study, with 12 cases (with complications) and 24 controls (without complications). The summary measures were applied for each type of variables and the determination of the risk factors by applying the odds ratio (OR), the SPSS statistical package version 26.0 was used, with a confidence interval (CI) of 95 percent. Results: The combination of hypovolemic shock, plus acute renal failure, was the most frequent complication for 13.8 percent. Uterine atony predominated for 50.0 percent as the cause of hemorrhage. The predictive variables of complications were: creatinine value ≥ 113 µmol/L (OR= 19.08; CI: 2.75-138.36), international normalized ratio ≥ 2 (OR= 4.66; CI: 1. 46-14.90), hematocrit < 0.23 (OR= 4.00; CI: 1.76-9.08) and hemoglobin < 70 g/L (OR= 2.22; CI: 1.25-3.95). Conclusions: Creatinine ≥ 113 µmol/L, international normalized ratio ≥ 2, hematocrit < 0.23 and hemoglobin < 70 g/L are the main risk factors identified for the development of complications during obstetric hemorrhage(AU)

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) in the presence of an intact perineum.

Obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) in the absence of concurrent injury to the perineal skin is not a common diagnosis. A primiparous woman delivered a healthy male infant by spontaneous vertex delivery. At time of delivery, a compound presentation of the fetal hand with the head was noted. Initial examination revealed a presumed second-degree tear; however, a small laceration above the anal verge was noted, which on exploration revealed a perineal injury through the anal sphincter complex. In the operating theatre, the perineal skin was incised to reveal a 3c OASI, which was repaired appropriately. While atypical OASI has been reported previously, this specific injury has never been described in detail in the literature. Awareness of atypical perineal injuries is needed and while careful perineal examination is required in all cases, this is especially important where the perineal skin appears intact to ensure appropriate diagnosis of any concurrent OASI.

Protocolo Clínico - Quirúrgico de Cesárea en la Unidad Técnica de Alto Riesgo Obstétrico / Clinical-Surgical Protocol for Cesarean Section in the Obstetric High Risk Technical Unit

El procedimiento quirúrgico cesárea con miras a la historia es considerada como un avance de suma importancia en la dismi-nución del riesgo de mortalidad materna y perinatal1.Es la intervención más realizada a nivel de especialidad lo que conlleva riesgos inherentes, quirúrgicos y anestésicos2,3.En el año 2015 la incidencia en el Ecuador de terminación del embarazo por cesárea es del 29,3% en el sector público, 49,9% en Seguridad Social y 69,9% en clínicas privadas4. Para la Or-ganización Mundial de la Salud (OMS) en el mismo año refiere que "En ninguna región del mundo se justifica la incidencia de cesárea superior al 10- 15%"5. La variabilidad de indicación de cesárea, hace que sea necesaria la creación de guías y protocolos, para de esta manera unificar los criterios médicos, de acuerdo a la mejor evidencia científica disponible.

The cesarean section surgical procedure is historically considered a very important advance in reducing the risk of maternal and perinatal mortality1.It is the most frequently performed intervention at the specialty level, which entails inherent surgical and anesthetic risks2,3.In 2015, the incidence in Ecuador of termination of pregnancy by cesarean section is 29,3% in the public sector, 49,9% in Social Security and 69,9% in private clinics4. For the World Health Or-ganization (WHO) in the same year, it states that "In no region of the world is the incidence of cesarean section higher than 10-15% justified" 5.The variability of the indication for cesarean section makes it ne-cessary to create guidelines and protocols, in order to unify me-dical criteria, according to the best scientific evidence available.

Desgarro agudo del esfínter anal postparto con reparación inmediata / Immediate repair of acute postpartum anal sphincter tear: case report

Las lesiones obstétricas del esfínter anal pueden ocurrir durante el parto vaginal espontáneamente o secundariamente a la episiotomía. Su riesgo se estima en un 26% y son la causa más frecuente de incontinencia anal en mujeres jóvenes. Las lesiones de grado 4 de Sultan, también llamadas cloaca traumática, implican la ruptura completa del esfínter y la comunicación de la cavidad vaginal con el canal anal. La reparación es siempre quirúrgica, para lo que se han descrito diferentes técnicas, aunque ninguna ha demostrado ser superior. Presentamos el caso de una paciente primípara de 23 años con una cloaca traumática posparto. La reparación quirúrgica se realizó de inmediato con una técnica de overlapping. El postoperatorio fue sin complicaciones y al año presenta continencia anal completa. (AU)

Obstetric anal sphincter injuries can occur spontaneously or as a consequence of an episiotomy during vaginal delivery. Their risk is estimated at 26% and they are the most frequent cause of anal incontinence in young women. Sultan grade 4 injuries, also called traumatic cloaca, involve complete rupture of the sphincter and communication of the vaginal cavity with the anal canal. The repair is always surgical, for which different techniques have been described, although none have proven to be superior. We present the case of a 23-year-old primiparous patient with a postpartum traumatic cloaca. Surgical repair was performed immediately with an overlapping technique. The postoperative period was without complications and one year later she presents complete anal continence. (AU)

Tendência temporal de nascidos prematuros no estado de Santa Catarina entre 2011 e 2021 / Temporal trend of premature birth in the state of Santa Catarina between 2011 and 2021

Objetivo: Analisar a tendência temporal de nascimentos prematuros no estado de Santa Catarina entre 2011 e 2021. Métodos: Estudo observacional ecológico de tendência temporal realizado com informações do banco de dados do Sistema de Informação sobre Nascidos Vivos do estado de Santa Catarina (2011-2021), disponibilizado pela Diretoria de Vigilância Epidemiológica. Foram analisados todos os nascidos vivos prematuros segundo o ano de processamento e o local de residência em Santa Catarina (110.422). Foram incluídos os nascidos vivos de gestação com menos de 37 semanas completas. As taxas de nascimentos prematuros foram calculadas proporcionalmente à totalidade de nascimentos e calculadas segundo macrorregião, idade materna, número de consultas do pré-natal, instrução materna e cor de pele. Para o cálculo da tendência temporal, foi utilizada a regressão linear simples, com intervalo de confiança de 95% (p ≤ 0,05). Resultados: A taxa média de nascimentos prematuros no estado de Santa Catarina foi de 10,57%, com tendência estável (p < 0,001). Maiores taxas específicas foram encontradas nas macrorregiões Meio Oeste e Serra e Planalto Norte e Nordeste (11,46%), extremos de idade (10-14 anos e 45-64 anos) e menor escolaridade. Maior número de consultas de pré-natal apresentou taxa de prematuridade menor (7,69%). Tendências crescentes das taxas foram apenas encontradas na macrorregião Grande Oeste, faixa etária materna entre 40-44 anos e entre 4-6 consultas de pré-natal. Conclusão: A tendência da taxa de prematuridade manteve-se estável em Santa Catarina. Baixo número de consultas de pré-natal, extremos de idades e baixa escolaridade mostraram taxas maiores de prematuridade. (AU)

Objective: Analyzing the temporal trend of premature births in the state of Santa Catarina between 2011 and 2021. Methods: Observational ecological temporal trend study carried out with information from the database of the Information System on Live Births in the state of Santa Catarina (2011-2021), made available by the Epidemiological Surveillance Directorate. All premature live births were analyzed according to the year of processing and place of residence in Santa Catarina (110,422). Live births of less than 37 completed weeks were included. The rates of premature births were calculated in proportion to the total number of births and calculated according to macro-region, maternal age, number of prenatal consultations, maternal education and skin color. Simple linear regression was used to calculate the temporal trend, with a confidence interval of 95% (p ≤ 0.05). Results: The average rate of premature births in the state of Santa Catarina was 10.57%, with a stable trend (p < 0.001). Higher specific rates were found in the Midwest and Serra, North Plateau and Northeast macro-regions (11.46%), age extremes (10-14 years and 45-64 years) and lower schooling. A greater number of prenatal consultations had a lower prematurity rate (7.69%). Increasing trends in rates were only found in the Grande Oeste macro-region, maternal age group between 40-44 years and between 4-6 prenatal consultations. Conclusion: The prematurity rate trend remained stable in Santa Catarina. Low number of prenatal consultations, extremes of age and low education showed higher rates of prematurity. (AU)

Distocia em éguas ­ Estudo retrospectivo de cinco casos / Dystocia in mares ­ Retrospective study of five cases

O objetivo deste trabalho foi realizar um estudo retrospectivo de cinco casos de cesarianas em éguas, atendidos no Hospital Veterinário da Universidade Estadual de Maringá, campus Umuarama (HVGA-UEM), no período de 2019 a 2021, em quatro éguas da raça Quarto de Milha e uma da Crioula, com queixa principal de parto prolongado e distocias por diferentes motivos. Destes, três casos (60%) tiveram alta médica (3/5), enquanto 40% (2/5) em consequência de complicações pós-operatórias e pela gravidade do quadro clínico evoluíram para o óbito. As distocias são raras em éguas, quando comparados com outras espécies e, essa particularidade, pode ser justificada pela conformação anatômica do sistema reprodutivo e a classificação placentária das éguas, que propiciam contrações rápidas e efetivas facilitando a progressão do parto normal. Dessa forma, nos casos de distocia, em que as manobras obstétricas são incapazes de corrigir o mau posicionamento fetal, a cesariana passa a ser o procedimento de eleição, no presente estudo, nenhuma égua apresentou dilatação suficiente para que fosse conduzida a fetotomia. Como medida complementar, norteada pelos princípios de bem-estar animal, foi sugerido aos proprietários, que não colocassem esses animais na estação reprodutiva seguinte, restringindo-se a sua utilização somente como doadoras de embriões. Portanto, foi possível concluir que a sobrevida das éguas submetidas a cesariana é de 60% nas condições deste estudo, o monitoramento das éguas gestantes é um fator determinante sobre os índices de mortalidade materno-fetal.

The objective of this study was to make a descriptive analysis of 5 cases of caesarean sections in mares. The five reported cases were treated at the Veterinary Hospital of the State University of Maringa, campus Umuarama (HVGA-UEM), from 2019 to 2021. Four Quarter Horse mares and one Crioula, complaining of prolonged delivery and dystocia due to different reasons. Of these, three cases were discharged 60% (3/5), while the other three 40% (2/5), due to postoperative complications and the severity of the clinical condition, progressed to death. Dystocia births are rare in mares, when compared to other species, this particularity, can be justified by the anatomical conformation of the reproductive system and the placental classification of mares, which provide rapid and effective contractions, which facilitate the progression of normal or eutocia birth. Thus, in cases of dystocia in mares, those in which obstetric maneuvers are unable to correct fetal malposition, cesarean section becomes the emergency procedure of choice. As a complementary measure, guided by the principles of animal welfare, owners were suggested not to place these animals in the next reproductive season, restricting their use only as embryo donors. Thus, it was possible to conclude that the survival of mares undergoing cesarean is 60% under the conditions of this study, uses had no vital signs at the time of the procedure and/or evolved to death during the post-surgical period immediate.

Challenges of rural women living with obstetric fistula: A phenomenological study.

BACKGROUND: Obstetric fistula is a devastating complication caused by a prolonged and obstructed labor. It is estimated that about 2 million girls and women continue to live with obstetric fistula while between 50,000-100,000 women worldwide develop obstetric fistula each year. This condition continues to persist and remains a major problem in Ghana and other developing countries. AIM: To explore the challenges and post-surgery integration needs among rural women living with obstetric fistula. METHOD: A critical exploratory research methodology based on phenomenology was used to conduct in-depth one-on-one interviews. A non-probability and purposive sampling were done to identify thirty-six (36) women between the ages of 25 and 65. The interviews were recorded electronically and transcribed verbatim. A systematic analysis of data was then done to identify and categorize emerging themes. RESULTS: The results from the study showed that those who lived with obstetric fistulae experienced psychosocial, physical and economic challenges. Dominant among the psychological challenges identified were disruptions in social relations, divorce and loss of baby through neonatal death. Physical challenges include rashes and sores, foot drop, incontinence of urine. Economically, these women lost their source of livelihood and were heavily dependent on other family members. Support from family was also found to be key towards the post-surgery integration of the women. CONCLUSION: Obstetric fistula is a dilapidating condition that needs to be addressed at the micro, mezzo and macro level. Based on the findings of the study, recommendations were made to improve emergency obstetric care for women especially for women living in rural communities.

Percepção sobre o cuidado à perda gestacional: estudo qualitativo com casais brasileiros / Perceptions on pregnancy loss care: a qualitative study with brazilian couples / Percepción sobre la atención a la pérdida del embarazo: estudio cualitativo con parejas brasileñas

Este artigo analisou a percepção e os sentimentos de casais sobre o atendimento recebido nos serviços de saúde acessados em função de perda gestacional (óbito fetal ante e intraparto). O convite para a pesquisa foi divulgado em mídias sociais (Instagram e Facebook). Dos 66 casais que contataram a equipe, 12 participaram do estudo, cuja coleta de dados ocorreu em 2018. Os casais responderam conjuntamente a uma ficha de dados sociodemográficos e uma entrevista semiestruturada, realizada presencialmente (n=4) ou por videochamada (n=8). Os dados foram gravados em áudio e posteriormente transcritos. A Análise Temática indutiva das entrevistas identificou cinco temas: sentimento de impotência, iatrogenia vivida nos serviços, falta de cuidado em saúde mental, não reconhecimento da perda como evento com consequências emocionais negativas, e características do bom atendimento. Os achados demonstraram situações de violência, comunicação deficitária, desvalorização das perdas precoces, falta de suporte para contato com o bebê falecido e rotinas pouco humanizadas, especialmente durante a internação após a perda. Para aprimorar a assistência às famílias enlutadas, sugere-se qualificação profissional, ampliação da visibilidade do tema entre diferentes atores e reorganização dos serviços, considerando uma diretriz clínica para atenção ao luto perinatal, com destaque para o fortalecimento da inserção de equipes de saúde mental no contexto hospitalar.(AU)

This study analyzed couples' perceptions and feelings about pregnancy loss care (ante and intrapartum fetal death). A research invitation was published on social media (Instagram and Facebook) and data collection took place in 2018. Of the 66 couples who contacted the research team, 12 participated in the study by filling a sociodemographic questionnaire and answering a semi-structured interview in person (n=04) or by video call (n=08). All interviews were audio recorded, transcribed, and examined by Inductive Thematic Analysis, which identified five themes: feelings of impotence, iatrogenic experiences in health services, lack of mental health care, not recognizing pregnancy loss as an emotionally overwhelming event, and aspects of good healthcare. Analysis showed experiences of violence, poor communication, devaluation of early losses, lack of support for contact with the deceased baby, and dehumanizing routines, especially during hospitalization after loss. Professional qualification, extended pregnancy loss visibility among different stakeholders, and reorganization of health services are needed to improve the care offered to grieving families, considering a clinical guideline for perinatal grief care with emphasis on strengthening the insertion of mental health teams in the hospital context.(AU)

Este estudio analizó las percepciones y sentimientos de parejas sobre la atención recibida en los servicios de salud a los que accedieron debido a la pérdida del embarazo (muerte fetal ante e intraparto). La invitación al estudio se publicó en las redes sociales (Instagram y Facebook). De las 66 parejas que se contactaron con el equipo, 12 participaron en el estudio, cuya recolección de datos se realizó en 2018. Las parejas respondieron un formulario de datos sociodemográficos y realizaron una entrevista semiestructurada presencialmente (n=4) o por videollamada (n=08). Los datos se grabaron en audio para su posterior transcripción. El análisis temático inductivo identificó cinco temas: Sentimiento de impotencia, experiencias iatrogénicas en los servicios, falta de atención a la salud mental, falta de reconocimiento de la pérdida como un evento con consecuencias emocionales negativas y características de buena atención. Los hallazgos evidenciaron situaciones de violencia, comunicación deficiente, desvalorización de las pérdidas tempranas, falta de apoyo para el contacto con el bebé fallecido y rutinas poco humanizadas, especialmente durante la hospitalización tras la pérdida. Para mejorar la atención a las familias en duelo, se sugiere capacitación profesional, ampliación de la visibilidad del tema entre los diferentes actores y reorganización de los servicios, teniendo en cuenta una guía clínica para la atención del duelo perinatal, enfocada en fortalecer la inserción de los equipos de salud mental en el contexto hospitalario.(AU)