The role of the cerebroplacental ratio in predicting pregnancy outcomes at 40-42 gestational weeks: a prospective observational trial.

PURPOSE: The cerebroplacental ratio is a sonographic tool used to predict poor pregnancy outcomes. Data are insufficient regarding its use in postdate pregnancy. We evaluated the cerebroplacental ratio's prediction of unfavorable pregnancy outcomes in women at 40-42 weeks gestation with normal amniotic fluid index. METHODS: This prospective observational study included 101 women with low-risk singleton pregnancy and gestational age > 40 weeks who delivered in a university affiliated hospital during 2020-2021. The middle cerebral artery pulsatility index, the umbilical artery pulsatility index, and the cerebroplacental ratio, which is their quotient, were compared between women with favorable and unfavorable pregnancy outcomes. The latter included: meconium-stained amniotic fluid, cesarean or vacuum-assisted delivery due to pathological cardiotocography (category 2 or 3), 5-min Apgar score < 7, umbilical cord pH < 7.1, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and neonatal death. RESULTS: Fetal Doppler, performed at a median gestational age of 40.3 (40.0-41.6), did not differ between 75 (74.3%) women with favorable obstetrical outcomes and 26 (25.7%) with unfavorable outcomes. In multivariate analysis, advanced maternal age and a history of a cesarean section were correlated with unfavorable outcomes, while Doppler indices were not found to be predictive. Among women at 41-42 weeks' gestation, for those with intrapartum fetal monitor category 2-3 vs. category 1, the mean umbilical artery pulsatility index was higher: 0.92 ± 0.34 vs. 0.71 ± 0.11 (p = 0.044). CONCLUSION: According to the study results, fetal Doppler indices, including the cerebroplacental ratio, are not predictive of unfavorable outcome in women with pregnancies exceeding 40 weeks. Larger prospective studies are needed.

Sonographic evaluation of retained products of conception within 48 h following delivery: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVE: Early diagnosis of retained products of conception (RPOC) is critical for directing clinical management and for preventing associated complications. This study aimed to evaluate the utility of post-delivery ultrasound in patients with risk factors for RPOC. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort-study was conducted in a single tertiary university-affiliated hospital (January 2016-September 2022). Sonographic evaluation, including endometrium thickness measurement and color Doppler, were reviewed of women with risk factors for RPOC: postpartum hemorrhage, a hemoglobin drop > 4 g/dl, manual removal of the placenta, and suspicious placenta. Results of early postpartum ultrasound (within 48 h), misoprostol administration and hysteroscopies were evaluated. RESULTS: Of the 591 women included, RPOC was suspected in 141 (24%). Endometrial thickness > 5 mm was associated with sonographic RPOC diagnosis in 58%. Suspected sonographic RPOC was concluded for 100%, 92% and 7% of the women with marked, moderate, and undetectable vascularity, respectively, p < 0.001. Misoprostol 1000 mcg per rectum (PR) was administered to 86% of those with suspected RPOC; only 11% of them needed an operative hysteroscopy for removal of the RPOC. RPOC on a pathology report was confirmed for 71% of those who underwent hysteroscopy. CONCLUSIONS: Postpartum transabdominal ultrasonography within 48 h of delivery was effective for assessing RPOC. For appropriate triage, color Doppler grading increased the accuracy of RPOC diagnosis. Misoprostol treatment was successful in 88% of women with suspected sonographic RPOC. The combination of sonographic evaluation and misoprostol treatment for suspected RPOC might lower the rate of unnecessary invasive procedures.