Perinatal morbidity among women with a previous caesarean delivery (PRISMA trial): a cluster-randomised trial.

BACKGROUND: Women with a previous caesarean delivery face a difficult choice in their next pregnancy: planning another caesarean or attempting vaginal delivery, both of which are associated with potential maternal and perinatal complications. This trial aimed to assess whether a multifaceted intervention, which promoted person-centred decision making and best practices, would reduce the risk of major perinatal morbidity among women with one previous caesarean delivery. METHODS: We conducted an open, multicentre, cluster-randomised, controlled trial of a multifaceted 2-year intervention in 40 hospitals in Quebec among women with one previous caesarean delivery, in which hospitals were the units of randomisation and women the units of analysis. Randomisation was stratified according to level of care, using blocked randomisation. Hospitals were randomly assigned (1:1) to the intervention group (implementation of best practices and provision of tools that aimed to support decision making about mode of delivery, including an estimation of the probability of vaginal delivery and an ultrasound estimation of the risk of uterine rupture), or the control group (no intervention). The primary outcome was a composite risk of major perinatal morbidity. This trial was registered with ISRCTN, ISRCTN15346559. FINDINGS: 21 281 eligible women delivered during the study period, from April 1, 2016 to Dec 13, 2019 (10 514 in the intervention group and 10 767 in the control group). None were lost to follow-up. There was a significant reduction in the rate of major perinatal morbidity from the baseline period to the intervention period in the intervention group as compared with the control group (adjusted odds ratio [OR] for incremental change over time, 0·72 [95% CI 0·52-0·99]; p=0·042; adjusted risk difference -1·2% [95% CI -2·0 to -0·1]). Major maternal morbidity was significantly reduced in the intervention group as compared with the control group (adjusted OR 0·54 [95% CI 0·33-0·89]; p=0·016). Minor perinatal and maternal morbidity, caesarean delivery, and uterine rupture rates did not differ significantly between groups. INTERPRETATION: A multifaceted intervention supporting women in their choice of mode of delivery and promoting best practices resulted in a significant reduction in rates of major perinatal and maternal morbidity, without an increase in the rate of caesarean or uterine rupture. FUNDING: Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR, MOP-142448).

Trial of labor after cesarean, vaginal birth after cesarean, and the risk of uterine rupture: an expert review.

The decision to pursue a trial of labor after cesarean delivery is complex and depends on patient preference, the likelihood of successful vaginal birth after cesarean delivery, assessment of the risks vs benefits of trial of labor after cesarean delivery, and available resources to support safe trial of labor after cesarean delivery at the planned birthing center. The most feared complication of trial of labor after cesarean delivery is uterine rupture, which can have catastrophic consequences, including substantial maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality. Although the absolute risk of uterine rupture is low, several clinical, historical, obstetrical, and intrapartum factors have been associated with increased risk. It is therefore critical for clinicians managing patients during trial of labor after cesarean delivery to be aware of these risk factors to appropriately select candidates for trial of labor after cesarean delivery and maximize the safety and benefits while minimizing the risks. Caution is advised when considering labor augmentation and induction in patients with a previous cesarean delivery. With established hospital safety protocols that dictate close maternal and fetal monitoring, avoidance of prostaglandins, and careful titration of oxytocin infusion when induction agents are needed, spontaneous and induced trial of labor after cesarean delivery are safe and should be offered to most patients with 1 previous low transverse, low vertical, or unknown uterine incision after appropriate evaluation, counseling, planning, and shared decision-making. Future research should focus on clarifying true risk factors and identifying the optimal approach to intrapartum and induction management, tools for antenatal prediction, and strategies for prevention of uterine rupture during trial of labor after cesarean delivery. A better understanding will facilitate patient counseling, support efforts to improve trial of labor after cesarean delivery and vaginal birth after cesarean delivery rates, and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with uterine rupture during trial of labor after cesarean delivery.

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.

Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and pregnancy: A systematic review.

BACKGROUND: Vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (vEDS) is a hereditary connective tissue disorder associated with an elevated risk of vascular, uterine and digestive complications. Managing pregnancy in this context can be a challenge. OBJECTIVES: To systematically review the literature data on the complications in pregnancy associated with vEDS. SEARCH STRATEGY: We searched the Pubmed Medline and Embase databases for articles using the following terms "vascular Ehlers-Danlos syndrome" or "vEDS" AND "pregnancy". SELECTION CRITERIA: Women with vEDS. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS: We searched the PubMed® MEDLINE® database for publications evaluating obstetric outcomes in women with vEDS. MAIN RESULTS: A total of 121 publications were screened, with six (accounting for 412 pregnancies) included in our review. Of the women included in this sample, 30% were infertile. The miscarriage rate was 13.8% (57/412) and 8.8% of the live births were premature. Obstetric anal sphincter injuries occurred in 11.3% (23/203) of the deliveries. The maternal mortality rate per pregnancy was 5.7%. CONCLUSIONS: Women with vEDS present an elevated risk of uterine rupture, vascular events, digestive events and death during pregnancy. Women appear to be most at risk during the peripartum period; to avoid expulsive efforts, a caesarean section should be scheduled at 37 weeks of gestation.

Comparing the outcomes of termination of second trimester pregnancy with a live fetus using intravaginal misoprostol between women with and without previous cesarean section.

OBJECTIVE: To compare the outcomes of termination of pregnancy with live fetuses in the second trimester (14-28 weeks), using misoprostol 400 mcg intravaginal every 6 h, between women with previous cesarean section (PCS) and no previous cesarean section (no PCS). METHODS: A comparative study was conducted on a prospective database of pregnancy termination in the second trimester, Chiang Mai university hospital. Inclusion criteria included: (1) singleton pregnancy; (2) gestational age between 14 and 28 weeks; and (3) pregnancy with a live fetus and medically indicated for termination. The participants were categorized into two groups; PCS and no PCS group. All were terminated using misoprostol 400 mcg intravaginal every 6 h. The main outcomes were induction to fetal delivery interval and success rate, defined as fetal delivery within 48 h. RESULTS: A total of 238 women, including 80 PCS and 158 no PCS, were recruited. The success rate of fetal delivery within 48 h between both groups was not significantly different (91.3% vs. 93.0%; p-value 0.622). The induction to fetal delivery interval were not significantly different (1531 vs. 1279 min; p-value > 0.05). Gestational age was an independent factor for the success rate and required dosage of misoprostol. The rates of most adverse effects of misoprostol were similar. One case (1.3%) in the PCS group developed uterine rupture during termination, ending up with safe and successful surgical removal and uterine repair. CONCLUSION: Intravaginal misoprostol is highly effective for second trimester termination of pregnancy with PCS and those with no PCS, with similar success rate and induction to fetal delivery interval. Gestational age was an independent factor for the success rate and required dosage of misoprostol. Uterine rupture could occur in 1.3% of PCS, implying that high precaution must be taken for early detection and proper management. SYNOPSIS: Intravaginal misoprostol is highly effective for termination of second trimester pregnancy with a live fetus, with a comparable success rate between women with and without previous cesarean section, with a 1.3% risk of uterine rupture among women with previous cesarean section.

Clinical analysis of complete uterine rupture during pregnancy.

BACKGROUND: Uterine rupture in pregnant women can lead to serious adverse outcomes. This study aimed to explore the clinical characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of patients with complete uterine rupture. METHODS: Data from 33 cases of surgically confirmed complete uterine rupture at Chenzhou No.1 People's Hospital between January 2015 and December 2022 were analyzed retrospectively. RESULTS: In total, 31,555 pregnant women delivered in our hospital during the study period. Of these, approximately 1‰ (n = 33) had complete uterine rupture. The average gestational age at complete uterine rupture was 31+4 weeks (13+1-40+3 weeks), and the average bleeding volume was 1896.97 ml (200-6000 ml). Twenty-six patients (78.79%) had undergone more than two deliveries. Twenty-five women (75.76%) experienced uterine rupture after a cesarean section, two (6.06%) after fallopian tube surgery, one (3.03%) after laparoscopic cervical cerclage, and one (3.03%) after wedge resection of the uterine horn, and Fifteen women (45.45%) presented with uterine rupture at the original cesarean section incision scar. Thirteen patients (39.39%) were transferred to our hospital after their initial diagnosis. Seven patients (21.21%) had no obvious symptoms, and only four patients (12.12%) had typical persistent lower abdominal pain. There were 13 cases (39.39%, including eight cases ≥ 28 weeks old) of fetal death in utero and two cases (6.06%, both full term) of severe neonatal asphyxia. The rates of postpartum hemorrhage, blood transfusion, hysterectomy were 66.67%, 63.64%, and 21.21%. Maternal death occurred in one case (3.03%). CONCLUSIONS: The site of the uterine rupture was random, and was often located at the weakest point of the uterus. There is no effective means for detecting or predicting the weakest point of the uterus. Rapid recognition is key to the treatment of uterine rupture.

Trial of labour after two caesarean sections (TOLA2C) and risk of uterine rupture, a retrospective single centre study.

BACKGROUND: Most German hospitals do not offer a trial of labour after two caesarean sections (TOLA2C). TOLA2C is claimed to be associated with too many complications, above all the high risk of uterine rupture. The objective of this study is to review our experience with TOLA2C, with special attention paid to the risk and probability of uterine ruptures. Secondary outcomes include comparing neonatal and maternal outcomes in the group of TOLA2C with the group of elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS) and to assess the success rate for vaginal birth after two caesarean sections (VBAC-2). METHODS: The retrospective cohort study was conducted in a community hospital in North Rhine-Westphalia. Inclusion criteria were all pregnant women with two caesarean sections in their medical history, with a current vertex singleton pregnancy and the absence of morphological abnormalities of the foetus, who gave birth in our facility between January 2015 and June 2021. Descriptive statistics were calculated and Kolmogorov-Smirnov tests, Mann-Whitney U tests, Fishers exact tests, Chi2 -tests and t-tests for independent samples were performed. RESULTS: A total of 91 cases were included in the TOLA2C-group. These were compared to 99 cases that, within the same time frame, had an elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS-group). There was no statistically significant difference found in the neonatal outcome between the two groups (except for the neonatal pH-value: p 0.024). The hospital stay was significantly shorter in the TOLA2C-group, while maternal complication rates were almost similar (13.2% in the TOLA2C-Group, vs. 16.2% in the ERCS-Group). The success rate for TOLA2C was 55%. No complete uterine rupture was found, but in three cases an incomplete rupture (3.3% rate for incomplete uterine ruptures) occurred, but had no influence on the neonatal outcome. CONCLUSION: TOLA2C is not associated with a worse maternal or neonatal outcome compared to ERCS, and especially the risk of complete uterine ruptures seems to be low. TOLA2C should be more widely offered to suitable patients who are motivated for it.

The global burden, risk and inequality of maternal obstructed labor and uterine rupture from 1990 to 2019.

BACKGROUND: Obstructed labor (OL) and uterine rupture (UR) are common obstetric complications. This study explored the burden, risk factors, decomposition, and health inequalities associated with OL and UR to improve global maternal health. METHODS: This was a cross-sectional analysis study including data on OL and UR from the Global Burden of Diseases, and Risk Factors Study (GBD) 2019. The main outcome measures included the number and age-standardized rate (ASR) of incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), prevalence, and deaths. RESULTS: The global burden of OL and UR has declined, with a decrease in incidence (number in 2019: 9,410,500.87, 95%UI 11,730,030.94 to 7,564,568.91; ASR in 2019: 119.64 per 100,000, 95%UI 149.15 to 96.21; estimated annual percentage change [EAPC] from 1990 to 2019: -1.34, 95% CI -1.41 to -1.27) and prevalence over time. However, DALYs (number in 2019: 999,540.67, 95%UI 1,209,749.35 to 817,352.49; ASR in 2019: 12.92, 95%UI 15.63 to 10.56; EAPC from 1990 to 2019: -0.91, 95% CI -1.26 to -0.57) and deaths remain significant. ASR of DALYs increased for the 10-14 year-old age group (2.01, 95% CI 1.53 to 2.5), the 15-19 year-old age group (0.07, 95% CI -0.47 to 0.61), Andean Latin America (3.47, 95% CI 3.05 to 3.89), and Caribbean (4.16, 95% CI 6 to 4.76). Iron deficiency was identified as a risk factor for OL and UR, and its impact varied across different socio-demographic indices (SDIs). Decomposition analysis showed that population growth primarily contributed to the burden, especially in low SDI regions. Health inequalities were evident, the slope and intercept for DALYs were - 47.95 (95% CI -52.87 to -43.02) and - 29.29 (95% CI -32.95 to -25.63) in 1990, 39.37 (95%CI 36.29 to 42.45) and 24.87 (95%CI 22.56 to 27.18) in 2019. Concentration indices of ASR-DALYs were - 0.2908 in 1990 and - 0.2922 in 2019. CONCLUSION: This study highlights the significant burden of OL and UR and emphasizes the need for continuous efforts to reduce maternal mortality and morbidity. Understanding risk factors and addressing health inequalities are crucial for the development of effective interventions and policies to improve maternal health outcomes globally.

Accidental uterine extensions in cesarean deliveries - outcome of subsequent pregnancy.

OBJECTIVES: To explore the obstetric, maternal and neonatal outcome in the subsequent pregnancy after a pregnancy with an accidental uterine extension (AUE) during cesarean delivery (CD), as well as the relationship between the different types of AUE (inferior, lateral and superior). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of all CD with AUE in a tertiary medical center between 01/2011-01/2022. Women with a prior CD with AUE were compared to a 1:3 ratio matched control group of women with a prior CD without AUE. All AUE were defined in their direction, size and mode of suturing. CD with deliberate uterine extensions were excluded. We evaluated obstetric, maternal and neonatal outcomes in the subsequent pregnancy after a pregnancy with AUE during CD. RESULTS: Comparing women with a prior CD with AUE (n=177) to the matched control group of women with a prior CD without AUE (n=528), we found no significant differences in proportions of uterine rupture or any other major complication or adverse outcome between the groups. There were no significant differences in the outcomes of the subsequent pregnancy in relation to the characteristics of the AUE (direction, size and mode of suturing). CONCLUSIONS: Subsequent pregnancies after AUE are not associated with higher maternal or neonatal adverse outcomes including higher proportions of uterine rupture compared to pregnancies without previous AUE. Different characteristics of the AUE do not impact the outcome.

Temporal Trend in Maternal Morbidity and Comorbidity.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to examine the temporal trends of severe maternal morbidity (SMM) in the U.S. population in relation to trends in maternal comorbidity. STUDY DESIGN: We performed a repeated cross-sectional analysis of data from individuals at 20 weeks' gestation or greater using U.S. birth certificate data from 2011 to 2021. Our primary outcome was SMM defined as the occurrence of intensive care unit admission, eclampsia, hysterectomy, uterine rupture, and blood product transfusion. We also examined the proportions of maternal comorbidity. Outcomes of the adjusted incidence rate ratio (IRR) with 99% confidence intervals (99% CIs) for 2021 m12 compared with 2011 m1 were calculated using negative binomial regression, controlling for predefined confounders. RESULTS: There were 42,504,125 births included in the analysis. From 2011 m1 to 2021 m12, there was a significant increase in the prevalence of advanced maternal age (35-39 [45%], 40-44 [29%], and ≥45 [43%] years), morbid obesity (body mass index 40-49.9 [66%], 50-59.9 [91%], and 60-69.9 [98%]), previous cesarean delivery (14%), chronic hypertension (104%), pregestational diabetes (64%), pregnancy-associated hypertension (240%), gestational diabetes (74%), and preterm delivery at 34 to 36 weeks (12%). There was a significant decrease in the incidence of multiple gestation (9%), preterm delivery at 22 to 27 weeks (9%), and preterm delivery at 20 to 21 weeks (22%). From 2011 m1 to 2021 m12, the incidence of SMM increased from 0.7 to 1.0% (crude IRR 1.60 [99% CI 1.54-1.66]). However, the trend was no longer statistically significant after controlling for confounders (adjusted IRR 1.01 [95% CI 0.81-1.27]). The main comorbidity that was associated with the increase in SMM was pregnancy-associated hypertension. CONCLUSION: The rise in the prevalence of comorbidity in pregnancy seems to fuel the rise in SMM. Interventions to prevent SMM should include the management and prevention of pregnancy-associated hypertension. KEY POINTS: · The rise in maternal mortality is related to morbidity.. · Pregnancy-associated hypertension increases morbidity.. · There were increasing trends in age, body mass index, and medical conditions..

Risk factors for maternal complications following uterine rupture: a 12-year single-center experience.

PURPOSE: To determine maternal outcomes and risk factors for composite maternal morbidity following uterine rupture during pregnancy. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study including all women diagnosed with uterine rupture during pregnancy, between 2011 and 2023, at a single-center. Patients with partial uterine rupture or dehiscence were excluded. We compared women who had composite maternal morbidity following uterine rupture to those without. Composite maternal morbidity was defined as any of the following: maternal death; hysterectomy; severe postpartum hemorrhage; disseminated intravascular coagulation; injury to adjacent organs; admission to the intensive care unit; or the need for relaparotomy. The primary outcome was risk factors associated with composite maternal morbidity following uterine rupture. The secondary outcome was the incidence of maternal and neonatal complications following uterine rupture. RESULTS: During the study period, 147,037 women delivered. Of them, 120 were diagnosed with uterine rupture. Among these, 44 (36.7%) had composite maternal morbidity. There were no cases of maternal death and two cases of neonatal death (1.7%); packed cell transfusion was the major contributor to maternal morbidity [occurring in 36 patients (30%)]. Patients with composite maternal morbidity, compared to those without, were characterized by: increased maternal age (34.7 vs. 32.8 years, p = 0.03); lower gestational age at delivery (35 + 5 vs. 38 + 1 weeks, p = 0.01); a higher rate of unscarred uteri (22.7% vs. 2.6%, p < 0.01); and rupture occurring outside the lower uterine segment (52.3% vs. 10.5%, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: Uterine rupture entails increased risk for several adverse maternal outcomes, though possibly more favorable than previously described. Numerous risk factors for composite maternal morbidity following rupture exist and should be carefully assessed in these patients.

Incidence and outcomes of uterine rupture in women with unscarred, preterm or prelabour uteri: data from the international network of obstetric survey systems.

OBJECTIVE: Analysis of atypical cases of uterine rupture, namely, uterine rupture occurring in unscarred, preterm or prelabour uteri. DESIGN: Descriptive multi-country population-based study. SETTING: Ten high-income countries within the International Network of Obstetric Survey Systems. POPULATION: Women with unscarred, preterm or prelabour ruptured uteri. METHODS: We merged prospectively collected individual patient data in ten population-based studies of women with complete uterine rupture. In this analysis, we focused on women with uterine rupture of unscarred, preterm or prelabour ruptured uteri. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Incidence, women's characteristics, presentation and maternal and perinatal outcome. RESULTS: We identified 357 atypical uterine ruptures in 3 064 923 women giving birth. Estimated incidence was 0.2 per 10 000 women (95% CI 0.2-0.3) in the unscarred uteri, 0.5 (95% CI 0.5-0.6) in the preterm uteri, 0.7 (95% CI 0.6-0.8) in the prelabour uteri, and 0.5 (95% CI 0.4-0.5) in the group with no previous caesarean. Atypical uterine rupture resulted in peripartum hysterectomy in 66 women (18.5%, 95% CI 14.3-23.5%), three maternal deaths (0.84%, 95% CI 0.17-2.5%) and perinatal death in 62 infants (19.7%, 95% CI 15.1-25.3%). CONCLUSIONS: Uterine rupture in preterm, prelabour or unscarred uteri are extremely uncommon but were associated with severe maternal and perinatal outcome. We found a mix of risk factors in unscarred uteri, most preterm uterine ruptures occurred in caesarean-scarred uteri and most prelabour uterine ruptures in 'otherwise' scarred uteri. This study may increase awareness among clinicians and raise suspicion of the possibility of uterine rupture under these less expected conditions.

Maternal outcomes of placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death and delivery routes: A nationwide observational study.

INTRODUCTION: Placental abruption is a serious complication, especially when accompanied by intrauterine fetal death. The optimal delivery route for placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death for reducing maternal complications is still unclear. In this study we aimed to compare the maternal outcomes between cesarean delivery and vaginal delivery in women with placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Using the Japan Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology nationwide perinatal registry database, we identified pregnant women with placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death between 2013 and 2019. The following women were excluded: those with multiple pregnancies, placenta previa, placenta accreta spectrum, amniotic fluid embolism, or whose delivery route was missing data. The association between delivery routes (cesarean delivery and vaginal delivery) and the maternal outcome was examined using a linear regression model with inverse probability weighting. The primary outcome was the amount of bleeding during delivery. Missing data were imputed using multiple imputation. RESULTS: The number of women with placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death was 1218/1601932 (0.076%). Of 1134 women analyzed, 608 (53.6%) underwent cesarean delivery. Bleeding during delivery (median [interquartile range]) was 1650.00 (950.00-2450.00) (mL) and 1171.00 (500.00-2196.50) (mL) in cesarean and vaginal delivery, respectively. Bleeding during delivery (mL) was significantly greater in cesarean delivery than in vaginal delivery (regression coefficient, 1086.39; 95% confidence interval, 130.96-2041.81; p = 0.026). Maternal death and uterine rupture occurred in four (0.4%) and five (0.4%) women, respectively. The four maternal deaths were noted in the vaginal delivery group. CONCLUSIONS: Bleeding during delivery was significantly greater in cesarean delivery than that in vaginal delivery in women with placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death. However, severe complications, including maternal death and uterine rupture, occurred in vaginal delivery-related cases. The management of women with placental abruption with intrauterine fetal death should be cautious regardless of the delivery route.

Fetomaternal outcome of scarred uterine rupture compared with primary uterine rupture: a retrospective cohort study.

OBJECTIVES: Literature comparing maternal and perinatal outcomes among women with scarred and primary uterine rupture are limited. Therefore, the study aimed to compare maternal and perinatal outcomes and associated risk factors of uterine rupture among scarred and unscarred uterus. METHODS: This retrospective cohort study was performed at a large tertiary care of India between July 1, 2011 and June 30, 2020. We analysed all the cases of complete uterine rupture beyond the 20th week of gestation. The outcome measures were live birth rate, perinatal mortality, maternal mortality and morbidity. RESULTS: A total of 115 complete uterine ruptures were noted in 148,102 pregnancies. Of those 115 uterine ruptures, 89 (77.3 %) uterine ruptures occurred in women with a history of caesarean delivery, and 26 (22.6 %) uterine ruptures occurred in primary uterine rupture. The primary uterine rupture group had a significantly higher incidence of lower parity, breech presentation and mean birth weight. The live birth rate (68.18% vs. 42.85 %; p=0.04) was significantly higher in the scarred group, and the stillbirth rate (57.14% vs. 31.86 %; p=0.009) was significantly higher in the primary uterine rupture group. Hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy, APGAR score, and neonatal intensive care unit admission were comparable. Postpartum haemorrhage, blood transfusion, severe acute maternal morbidity and intensive care unit stay were more frequently reported in the primary uterine rupture group. CONCLUSIONS: The maternal and perinatal outcomes appear less favourable among women with primary uterine rupture than scarred uterine rupture.

Uterine rupture and factors associated with adverse outcomes.

PURPOSE: To review cases of uterine rupture and identify risk factors associated with adverse outcomes. METHODS: This study is a retrospective cohort of complete uterine ruptures diagnosed in a large hospital system in Massachusetts between 2004 and 2018. Baseline demographics, labor characteristics and outcomes of uterine rupture were collected from medical records. RESULTS: A total of 173 cases of uterine rupture were identified. There were 30 (17.3%) women with an unscarred uterus, while 142 (82.1%) had a scarred uterus. Adverse outcomes (n = 89, 51.4% of cases) included 26 (15.0%) hysterectomies, 55 (31.8%) blood transfusions, 18 (10.4%) bladder/ureteral injuries, 5 (2.9%) reoperations, 25 (14.5%) Apgar scores lower than 5 at 5 min and 9 (5.2%) perinatal deaths. Uterine rupture of a scarred uterus was associated with decreased risk of hemorrhage (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.17-0.93), blood transfusion (OR 0.27, 95% CI 0.11-0.69), hysterectomy (OR 0.23, 95% CI 0.08-0.69) and any adverse outcome (OR 0.34, 95% CI 0.13-0.91) compared with unscarred rupture. Uterine rupture during vaginal delivery was associated with increased risk of transfusion (OR 6.55, 95% CI 1.53-28.05) and hysterectomy (OR 8.95, 95% CI 2.12-37.72) compared with emergent C-section. CONCLUSIONS: Although rare, uterine rupture is associated with adverse outcomes in over half of cases. Unscarred rupture and vaginal delivery demonstrate increased risk of adverse outcomes, highlighting the need for early diagnosis and operative intervention.

Rupture of the Gravid Uterus: A Two-Decade Experience at a University Teaching Hospital in South-West, Nigeria.

BACKGROUND: Uterine rupture is an obstetric emergency associated with significant maternal and perinatal mortality and morbidity, especially in resource-constraint countries such as Nigeria. OBJECTIVE: To determine the incidence and feto-maternal outcome of uterine rupture in a Nigerian teaching hospital. METHODS: This was a retrospective review of all cases of uterine rupture managed over 21 years. The case notes of all affected women were retrieved, and information on sociodemographic and obstetric characteristics, clinical presentation, intraoperative findings, and fetal and maternal outcomes were extracted. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 23.0 and descriptive statistics were computed. Factors associated with maternal deaths secondary to rupture of the gravid uterus were determined using binary logistic regression analyses. Statistical significance was reported at P<0.05. RESULTS: There were 31,616 deliveries during the review period, out of which were 182 cases of uterine rupture giving an incidence of 5.76 per 1,000 deliveries. Most of the cases of uterine rupture (65.2%) were treated by uterine repair. Maternal and fetal deaths were recorded in 8.1% and 82.7% of cases respectively. Women aged at least 35 years (P=0.035), women who had laboured at home or traditional birth attendant's (TBA) place (P=0.002), women who had multiple sites rupture (P=0.049) and those who developed hypovolemic shock (P=0.002) were more likely to die from uterine rupture. CONCLUSION: Ruptured uterus remains a significant cause of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality in Nigeria. Strategies for prevention include effective health education of the masses, the conduct of labour in a well-equipped health facility, and prompt referral of at-risk women.

CONTEXTE: La rupture utérine est une urgence obstétrique associée à une mortalité et une morbidité maternelles et périnatales significatives, en particulier dans les pays à ressources limitées comme le Nigeria. OBJECTIF: Déterminer l'incidence et l'issue fœto-maternelle de la rupture utérine dans un hôpital universitaire nigérian. MÉTHODES: Il s'agit d'une étude rétrospective de tous les cas de rupture utérine pris en charge sur une période de 21 ans. Les notes de cas de toutes les femmes concernées ont été récupérées et des informations sur les caractéristiques sociodémographiques et obstétriques, la présentation clinique, les résultats peropératoires et les issues fœtales et maternelles ont été extraites. Les données ont été analysées à l'aide de la version 23.0 de SPSS et des statistiques descriptives ont été calculées. Les facteurs associés aux décès maternels consécutifs à la rupture de l'utérus gravide ont été déterminés à l'aide d'analyses de régression logistique binaire. La signification statistique a été rapportée à P<0,05. RÉSULTATS: Il y a eu 31 616 accouchements pendant la période examinée, dont 182 cas de rupture utérine, soit une incidence de 5,76 pour 1 000 accouchements. La plupart des cas de rupture utérine (65,2 %) ont été traités par réparation utérine. Les décès maternels et fœtaux ont été enregistrés dans 8,1% et 82,7% des cas respectivement. Les femmes âgées d'au moins 35 ans (P=0,035), les femmes ayant accouché à domicile ou chez une accoucheuse traditionnelle (P=0,002), les femmes ayant eu des ruptures multiples (P=0,049) et celles ayant développé un choc hypovolémique (P=0,002) étaient plus susceptibles de mourir d'une rupture utérine. CONCLUSION: La rupture de l'utérus reste une cause importante de morbidité et de mortalité maternelles et périnatales au Nigeria. Les stratégies de prévention comprennent une éducation sanitaire efficace des masses, la conduite du travail dans un établissement de santé bien équipé et l'orientation rapide des femmes à risque. Mots-clés: Rupture utérine, Lagos, Mortalité maternelle, Mortalité périnatale, Incidence, Ligature tubaire bilatérale.

First-trimester uterine rupture: a case report and systematic review of the literature.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to present a case of first-trimester uterine rupture and perform a systematic review to identify common presentations, risk factors, and management strategies. DATA SOURCES: Searches were performed in PubMed, Ovid, and Scopus using a combination of key words related to "uterine rupture," "first trimester," and "early pregnancy" from database inception to September 30, 2020. STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA: English language descriptions of uterine rupture at ≤14 weeks of gestation were included, and cases involving pregnancy termination and ectopic pregnancy were excluded. METHODS: Outcomes for the systematic review included maternal demographics, description of uterine rupture, and specifics of uterine rupture diagnosis and management. Data were extracted to custom-made reporting forms. Median values were calculated for continuous variables, and percentages were calculated for categorical variables. The risk of bias was assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal checklist for case reports and case series. RESULTS: Overall, 61 cases of first-trimester uterine rupture were identified, including our novel case. First-trimester uterine ruptures occurred at a median gestation of 11 weeks. Most patients (59/61 [97%]) had abdominal pain as a presenting symptom, and previous uterine surgery was prevalent (44/61 [62%]), usually low transverse cesarean delivery (32/61 [52%]). The diagnosis of uterine rupture was generally made after surgical exploration (37/61 [61%]), with rupture noted in the fundus in 26 of 61 cases (43%) and in the lower segment in 27 of 61 cases (44%). Primary repair of the defect was possible in 40 of 61 cases (66%), whereas hysterectomy was performed in 18 of 61 cases (30%). Continuing pregnancy was possible in 4 of 61 cases (7%). CONCLUSION: Uterine rupture is an uncommon occurrence but should be considered in patients with an acute abdomen in early pregnancy, especially in women with previous uterine surgery. Surgical exploration is typically needed to confirm the diagnosis and for management. Hysterectomy is not always necessary; primary uterine repair is sufficient in more than two-thirds of the cases to achieve hemostasis. Continuing pregnancy, although uncommon, is also possible.

How does uterine contractile activity affect the success of trial of labour after caesarean section, and the risk of uterine rupture? An exploratory, blinded analysis of a cohort from a randomised controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the impact of uterine contractile activity on the outcome of trial of labour after caesarean section (TOLAC). DESIGN: Secondary, blinded analyses of a prospective TOLAC cohort. SETTING: Two labour wards, one in a university tertiary hospital and the other in a central hospital. POPULATION: A total of 194 TOLAC parturients with intrauterine tocodynamometry during labour. METHODS: Analysis of intrauterine pressure, frequency of contractions and baseline tonus of uterine muscle in 30-minute periods for 4 hours before birth. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Primary outcome: uterine contractile activity during TOLAC. Secondary aims: contributors associated with failed TOLAC and uterine rupture. RESULTS: TOLAC succeeded in 74% of cases. Uterine contractile activity, expressed as intrauterine pressure, was significantly higher in successful TOLAC compared with failed TOLAC (210 versus 170 Montevideo units). The statistically significant risk factors of failed TOLAC, after multivariate regression analysis, were prolonged gestational age, reduced cervical dilatation at admission and lower mean intrauterine pressure. In cases of uterine rupture, contractile activity did not differ from that in failed TOLAC. Cervical ripening with a Foley catheter appeared to be a risk factor for uterine rupture, as well as cervical dilatation <3 cm at admission. The incidence of total uterine rupture was 2.6% (n = 5). CONCLUSIONS: Women with successful vaginal birth had higher uterine contractile activity than those experiencing failed TOLAC or uterine rupture despite similar use of oxytocin. Induction of labour with a Foley catheter turned out to be a risk factor for uterine rupture during TOLAC among parturients with no previous vaginal delivery. TWEETABLE ABSTRACT: During VBAC the response to oxytocin, assessed as intrauterine pressure, is greater and adequate, in contrast to failed TOLAC.

How to boost an obstetrician's confidence in vaginal delivery after high-intensity focused ultrasound: a comparison study on delivery outcomes.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the feasibility of vaginal delivery after HIFU. METHODS: A total of 37 women who met the trial of labor after HIFU (TOLAH) inclusion criteria and 368 women who met the trial of labor after cesarean delivery (TOLAC) inclusion criteria gave birth at Shanghai First Maternity and Infant Hospital between 14th June 2018 and 24th September 2021. The delivery outcomes of the two groups were compared. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to estimate the adjusted risk of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH). RESULTS: In the Qualified Candidates for TOLAH group, vaginal delivery is substantially less common (p = 0.000). The prevalence of PPH in the Qualified Candidates for TOLAH group is lower than in the Candidates for TOLAC group (8.82% vs 10.51%, p = 0.534; 0% vs 2.51%, p = 0.418). Hemoglobin drop in the Qualified Candidates for TOLAH group is also lower (7.03 ± 7.39vs 12.11 ± 12.62, p = 0.001). The rate of using more than two types of uterotonic medications to promote contraction is significantly lower in the Qualified Candidates for TOLAH group (54.05% vs 69.84%, p = 0.04), and the percentage of abnormal uterine contraction is lower in the Qualified Candidates for TOLAH group (35.14% vs 49.18%, p = 0.072). PPH is strongly predicted by abnormal uterine contraction (aOR: 17.177, 95% CI:5.046 ∼ 58.472, p = 0.000), but not by HIFU (aOR:1.105; 95% CI:0.240 ∼ 5.087, p = 0.898). No uterine rupture occurred in the cases after HIFU. CONCLUSIONS: No uterine rupture occurred in our study group after HIFU. HIFU is not a risk for PPH. It is promising for those after HIFU to choose vaginal delivery.

Outcome of subsequent pregnancies in women with complete uterine rupture: A population-based case-control study.

INTRODUCTION: In the attempt of a trial of labor after a cesarean section approximately one in 200 women experience a complete uterine rupture. As a complete uterine rupture is associated with an adverse perinatal outcome, data regarding subsequent pregnancies are needed to provide proper care and guidance to women with a complete uterine rupture when informing them of future possibilities. The objective of this study was to investigate the fetal and maternal outcomes in subsequent pregnancies after a complete uterine rupture. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Retrospective population-based case-control study. Denmark 1997-2017. A total of 175 women with complete uterine rupture during an attempted trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) at term (cases) and a corresponding group of 272 women with no uterine rupture during an attempted TOLAC at term (controls) were labeled as index deliveries. Index deliveries were included from January 1, 1997 to December 31, 2008. From the date of the index delivery to December 31, 2017 the information on subsequent pregnancies and deliveries, and on referral to hospital with any obstetric or gynecological diagnosis were retrieved from the Danish Medical Birth Registry and National Patient Registry. Main outcome measures were miscarriage, perinatal death, neonatal morbidity, preterm birth, and recurrence of uterine rupture. Outcome measures were compared between cases and controls. RESULTS: After the index deliveries; there were 109 pregnancies and 70 deliveries after gestational age 22+0  weeks in the population of cases. In the population of controls, there were 183 pregnancies and 126 deliveries after 22+0  weeks. Cases had a significantly higher risk of miscarriage (odds ratio [OR] 3.99; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.36-13.17). The incidence of uterine rupture was 8.6% among cases and 0.8% among controls (OR 11.7; 95% CI 1.36-543.1). Among cases, 98.6% had live-born infants, and none of these had severe neonatal morbidity. No significant association was found between previous complete uterine rupture and preterm delivery, placenta previa, hysterectomy in relation to subsequent births, diagnosis such as meno/metrorrhagia, dysmenorrhea, or procedures such as hysteroscopy or hysterectomy. CONCLUSIONS: In pregnancies following complete uterine rupture continuing after 22+0  weeks, maternal and fetal outcomes are good when managed promptly with cesarean delivery.