Shoulder dystocia in deliveries of neonates <3500 grams.

OBJECTIVES: To study risk factors for shoulder dystocia (ShD) among women delivering <3500 g newborn. METHODS: A retrospective case-control study of all term live-singleton deliveries during 2011-2019. Women with neonatal birthweight <3500 g were included. We compared cases of ShD to other deliveries by univariate and multivariable regression. RESULTS: There were 79/41 092 (0.19%) cases of ShD among neonates <3500 g. In multivariable regression analysis, the following factors were independently associated with ShD; operative vaginal delivery (odds ratio [OR] 2.78; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.28-6.02, P = 0.009), vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC, OR 2.74; 1.22-6.13, P = 0.010), sonographic abdominal circumference to biparietal diameter ratio (3.73 among ShD vs. 3.62, OR 1.35; 95% CI: 1.12-1.63, P = 0.001) and sonographic abdominal circumference to head circumference ratio (1.036 among ShD vs. 1.011, OR 3.04; 95% CI: 1.006-9.23, P = 0.049). CONCLUSIONS: There is an association between operative vaginal delivery and ShD also in deliveries <3500 g. Importantly, the proportions between the fetal head and abdominal circumference are a better predictor of ShD than the newborn fetal weight and VBAC is associated with ShD.

Evaluation of ovarian reserve in young females with non-iatrogenic ovarian insufficiency to establish criteria for ovarian tissue cryopreservation.

RESEARCH QUESTION: Can ovarian reserve parameters predict the outcome of ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTCP) in patients ≤18 years with non-iatrogenic premature ovarian insufficiency (POI)? DESIGN: Retrospective cohort analysis carried out in a single tertiary hospital between August 2010 and January 2020. Thirty-seven patients ≤18 years with non-iatrogenic POI (27 with Turner syndrome, six with POI of unknown aetiology, three with galactosemia and one with blepharophimosis, ptosis, epicanthus inversus syndrome) were included. Three parameters were used to evaluate ovarian reserve: anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and transabdominal antral follicle count. Fertility preservation (most commonly OTCP) was offered if ovarian reserve was diminished and one or more parameters was positive. Follicles were counted in ovarian samples obtained at the time of OTCP. RESULTS: Ovarian reserve was diminished in 34 patients and 19 of them had one or more positive parameter. Fourteen (11 aged ≥12 years and 3 aged <12) underwent OTCP, one (14 years old) underwent ovarian stimulation and oocyte cryopreservation and four declined fertility preservation. Follicles were detected in 11 of 14 patients who underwent OTCP with one or more positive parameters (79%), and in all those (100%) who had two or three positive parameters. The median number of follicles was 27 (range 5-64) and 48 (range 21-75) in patients ≥12 years and those <12 years, respectively. CONCLUSION: This study shows that if OTCP is performed in patients with one or more positive parameters of ovarian activity, a 79% positive predictive value is achieved for the detection of follicles. The incorporation of this criterion for OTCP will minimize the risk of harvesting ovarian tissue with a low number of follicles.

Proteomic signature for detection of high-grade ovarian cancer in germline BRCA mutation carriers.

No current screening methods for high-grade ovarian cancer (HGOC) guarantee effective early detection for high-risk women such as germline BRCA mutation carriers. Therefore, the standard-of-care remains risk-reducing salpingo-oophorectomy (RRSO) around age 40. Proximal liquid biopsy is a promising source of biomarkers, but sensitivity has not yet qualified for clinical implementation. We aimed to develop a proteomic assay based on proximal liquid biopsy, as a decision support tool for monitoring high-risk population. Ninety Israeli BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation carriers were included in the training set (17 HGOC patients and 73 asymptomatic women), (BEDOCA trial; ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03150121). The proteome of the microvesicle fraction of the samples was profiled by mass spectrometry and a classifier was developed using logistic regression. An independent cohort of 98 BRCA mutation carriers was used for validation. Safety information was collected for all women who opted for uterine lavage in a clinic setting. We present a 7-protein diagnostic signature, with AUC >0.97 and a negative predictive value (NPV) of 100% for detecting HGOC. The AUC of the biomarker in the independent validation set was >0.94 and the NPV >99%. The sampling procedure was clinically acceptable, with favorable pain scores and safety. We conclude that the acquisition of Müllerian tract proximal liquid biopsies in women at high-risk for HGOC and the application of the BRCA-specific diagnostic assay demonstrates high sensitivity, specificity, technical feasibility and safety. Similar classifier for an average-risk population is warranted.

Single-dose methotrexate-based protocol for the treatment of caesarean scar pregnancy and successive pregnancy outcomes.

The incidence of caesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) increases in recent years. Yet, the best mode of treatment and its effects on successive pregnancies is not well established. The aim of this study was to investigate the success rate of single-dose methotrexate (MTX) in the management of CSP, and the outcomes of subsequent pregnancies in a retrospective cohort study. All women who were treated for CSPs between the years 2011 and 2019 were included. Treatment included systemic MTX and ultrasound-guided needle aspiration (UGNA) in cases with active foetal heartbeat. Overall, 34 women were diagnosed with CSP, of whom 31 were treated with systemic MTX. Twelve patients (38.7%) needed additional curettage or hysteroscopy. The only identified risk factor for failure of MTX-based treatment was time interval between the previous caesarean delivery and CSP (22 vs 34 months, p = 0.04). Twelve women had a subsequent pregnancy. Five pregnancies ended in term delivery, three in preterm delivery, three in abortion and one woman had a recurrent CSP. The study conclusion is that a single dose MTX with UGNA in cases of active heartbeat is an effective mode of treatment in cases of CSP with good sequential pregnancy outcomes. Longer time interval from the previous caesarean delivery was identified as a risk factor for failure of conservative management.

Fertility and pregnancy complications following chorioamnionitis.

Acute chorioamnionitis complicates 1-2% of all pregnancies and might increase the prevalence of endometritis that can cause Asherman syndrome or adhesions, but little is known about the direct effects of chorioamnionitis on future fertility. We aimed to evaluate the effect of chorioamnionitis on future fertility and obstetrics complications in patients diagnosed with chorioamnionitis during their pregnancy. We performed an observational, case-control retrospective study of pregnant women aged 18-40 years old, hospitalized with a diagnosis of chorioamnionitis between January 2013 and December 2017. The control group consisted of patients with similar demographic/obstetrics characteristics, matched with a ratio of 1:2 without chorioamnionitis. The prevalence of post gestational diagnostic hysteroscopy was significantly higher in the study group as compared to the control group (22.9% versus 9.0%, respectively; p = 0.005). Moreover, the study group underwent significantly more operative hysteroscopy compared to the control group (10.8% versus 3.6%, respectively; p = 0.04). The patients in the study group had significantly higher prevalence of miscarriages (27% versus 13.2%, respectively; p < 0.01). We conclude that chorioamnionitis may cause endometritis with the consequent impaired fertility, necessitating comprehensive evaluations for secondary infertility, including hysteroscopy aiming to treat intrauterine adhesions that may affect and impair fertility.

Transplantation of small ovarian tissue fragments using pipelle device is effective: method evaluation and reproductive outcomes.

PURPOSE: To assess the feasibility, effectiveness, and reproductive outcomes of transplantation of tiny cryopreserved ovarian pieces through a pipelle cannula during laparoscopic surgery. METHODS: A retrospective study of patients who underwent ovarian tissue transplantation for fertility restoration between 2004 and 2022. The "pipelle group" had their ovarian cortex cut into tiny pieces of ~ 1-2 mm3 before cryopreservation. The pieces were too small to be handled and transplanted via standard laparoscopic tools. Transplantation was performed using a pipelle cannula during laparoscopic surgery. The "control group" underwent transplants of ovarian cortex pieces 1-2 mm thick, measuring approximately 25-50 mm2 pieces, using standard procedures. RESULTS: The pipelle group consisted of 4 patients aged 19, 21, 27, and 28 years old at ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC). The control group consisted of 14 patients aged 21-30 years old. All pipelle patients restored their endocrine activity, and all of them conceived. FSH levels dropped during the first 3 months following the pipelle transplant. IVF cycle outcomes were similar for both groups. All patients from the pipelle group conceived, resulting in 5 pregnancies and 4 live births (one patient had 2 deliveries, and one additional pregnancy is ongoing), compared to the control group, where 8 patients achieved a total of 20 pregnancies and 18 live births. CONCLUSION: Pipelle transplantation for tiny cryopreserved ovarian pieces is feasible and effective. This study opens a door for patients who had their ovaries cut into small pieces and may even simplify the procedure in some instances, making ovarian transplant more accessible. TRIAL REGISTRATION: (#6531-19-SMC) [18/09/2019].

Predictive value of new onset versus primary meconium-stained amniotic fluid.

BACKGROUND: Transition of clear amniotic fluid to meconium-stained fluid is a relatively common occurrence during labor. However, data regarding the clinical significance and the prognostic value of the presence of meconium-stained amnionic fluid (MSAF) are scarce. This study aimed to investigate delivery and neonatal outcomes according to the presence of MSAF and the timing of the meconium passage. METHODS: We used an historical cohort study at a single tertiary medical center in Israel between the years 2011 and 2018. Women were divided into two groups according to timing of meconium passage: primary MSAF (MSAF present at membrane rupture) and secondary MSAF (clear amnionic fluid that transitioned to MSAF during labor). Neonatal complication rates were compared between groups. Composite adverse neonatal outcome was defined as arterial cord blood pH <7.1, 5 min Apgar score ≤7, and/or neonatal intensive care unit admission. RESULTS: The study cohort included 56 863 singleton term births. Of these, 9043 (15.9%) were to women who had primary MSAF, and 1484 (2.6%) to those with secondary MSAF. Secondary MSAF compared with primary MSAF increased the risks of cesarean birth and operative vaginal delivery, increased the risks of low one- and five-minute Apgar scores and low arterial cord blood pH, and increased hospital stay duration. Multivariate analysis revealed that secondary MSAF was independently associated with an increased risk of composite adverse neonatal outcome (OR1.68, 95% CI 1.25-2.24, p < 0.001) compared with primary MSAF. CONCLUSIONS: In this sample, secondary MSAF was associated with more adverse neonatal outcomes than primary MSAF. Closer monitoring of fetal well-being may be prudent in these cases.

Vaginal birth after cesarean in women with no prior vaginal delivery carrying a large for gestational age baby.

BACKGROUND: To study the factors associated with successful labor after cesarean (LAC) among women with no prior vaginal delivery, delivering a large for gestational age (LGA) baby. METHODS: A retrospective case-control study at two tertiary medical centers in Israel, including all women undergoing LAC with no prior vaginal delivery during 2010-2020, delivering a singleton LGA newborn. Factors associated with successful vaginal delivery were examined by a multivariable analysis. RESULTS: Overall, 323/505 (64.0%) had a successful LAC. Arrest of labor as the indication for previous CD was less common in the LAC success group [39 (12.1%) vs. 58 (31.9%), P < .001]. The rate of epidural analgesia was higher in the LAC success group [249 (77.1%) vs. 122 (67.0%), P = .014]. The rate of weight centile ≥97th was lower in the LAC success group [64 (19.8%) vs. 51 (28.0%), P = .035], as well as the rate of higher LAC birthweight than previous cesarean birthweight [264 (81.7%) vs. 162 (89.0%), P = .030]. In a multivariable logistic regression analysis, maternal height (aOR [95% CI]:1.09 (1.01, 1.17), P = .014) and epidural anesthesia (aOR [95% CI]:3.68 (1.31, 10.32), P = .013) were the only independent factors associated with LAC success. CONCLUSIONS: Among primiparous women undergoing LAC carrying LGA newborns, the vaginal delivery rate is acceptable; however, uterine rupture risk is increased. Epidural administration is a modifiable factor and should be taken into consideration during LAC management.

Isolated oligohydramnios - should induction be offered after 36 weeks?

OBJECTIVE: Isolated oligohydramnios (IO) - oligohydramnios in the absence of maternal or gestational comorbidity is debated as an indication for induction of labor. Previous meta-analyses regarding perinatal outcomes of IO at term have yielded conflicting results. We aimed to investigate the neonatal outcomes among gestations with IO delivered at 36°/7-396/7. METHODS: The study cohort included all women undergoing a trial of labor between during 2011 and 2019 of a singleton gestation with cephalic presentation between 36°/7 and 40°/7. We allocated the study groups into women with IO and those with normal amniotic fluid volume. Neonatal outcomes were compared between the groups and in relation to gestational age and induction of labor. RESULTS: Overall, there were 529/17,709 (3.0%) IO cases. IO was associated with maternal age <25 years (OR [95% CI] 1.62 (1.20-2.20), p = .001). Induction of labor was more common with IO (OR [95% CI] 1.33 (1.05-1.69) p = .01. IO was associated with preterm delivery (OR [95% CI] 1.81 (1.36-2.40), p < .001). The rate of neonatal adverse outcome did not differ between study groups. Overall composite adverse neonatal outcome occurred among 1,399/17,709 (7.9%) deliveries. Adverse neonatal outcome was associated with induction of labor (OR [95% CI] 1.61 (1.40-1.86), p < .001) and low birth weight (OR [95% CI] 7.41 (6.27-8.75), p < .001). When Stratified by gestational age, neonatal adverse outcome did not differ between IO and no IO groups. When examining cases of induction of labor per gestational age, induction of labor at 36 weeks among IO gestations, was associated with adverse neonatal outcome as compared to no IO group (OR [95% CI] 5.7 (1.23-26.3), p = .04). CONCLUSIONS: Induction of labor in gestations complicated by IO at 36 weeks gestational age is associated with an increased risk for adverse neonatal outcome. Our study results adds to the current literature regarding outcomes of IO and time of delivery. SYNOPSIS: Induction of labor in gestations complicated by IO at 36 weeks gestational age is associated with an increased risk for adverse neonatal outcome.

The effect of fetal weight on the accuracy of sonographic weight estimation among women with diabetes.

OBJECTIVE: The assessment of sonographic estimated fetal weight (EFW) enables identification of fetuses in the extremes of weight, thus aiding in the planning and management of peripartum care. There are conflicting reports regarding the accuracy of EFW in diabetic mothers. We aimed to study the factors associated with the accuracy of EFW at term, specifically the role of gestational and pre-gestational diabetes in this setting. METHODS: A retrospective study including all women carrying singleton term gestations who delivered within a week following a sonographic fetal weight estimation between 2011 and 2019. Accurate EFW was defined as within 10% of the actual birthweight. We allocated the study cohort into two groups: (1) Accurate EFW (2) inaccurate EFW. Both groups were compared in order to identify factors associated with the inaccuracy of EFW. RESULTS: Overall, 41,263 deliveries were available for evaluation, including 412 (1.0%) deliveries among women with pre-gestational diabetes and 4,735 (11.5%) among women with gestational diabetes. Of them, 7,280 (17.6%) had inaccurate EFW. Inaccurate EFW was associated with nulliparity, OR 0.82 [95% CI] (0.78-0.87), oligohydramnios, OR 0.81 [95% CI] (0.71-0.93), pregestational diabetes, OR [95% CI] 0.61 (0.50-0.79), and extremity of fetal weight; <2,500 grams-OR [95% CI] 0.37 (0.33-0.41) and >4,000 grams OR [95% CI] 0.52 (0.48-0.57). On multiple regression analysis, the following factors were independently associated with inaccurate EFW: pregestational diabetes, OR [95% CI] 0.58 (0.46-0.73), p < .001, nulliparity, OR [95% CI] 0.86 (0.82-0.91), p < .001 and higher fetal weight (for each 500 grams), OR [95% CI [1.25 (1.21-1.30), p < .001. On analysis of different weight categories, pregestational diabetes was associated with inaccurate EFW only in those with birthweight >3,500 grams, OR [95% CI] 0.37 (0.24-0.56) (p < .001). CONCLUSION: Among pregestational diabetic women, the accuracy of sonographic EFW when assessed to be >3,500 grams is questionable. This should be taken into consideration when consulting women and planning delivery management. SYNOPSIS: Among pregestational diabetic women, the accuracy of estimated sonographic fetal weight higher than 3,500 grams is of limited accuracy.

Risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injury among women undergoing a trial of labor after cesarean.

OBJECTIVE: Data regarding the risks of obstetrical anal sphincter injury (OASI) among women who never delivered vaginally undergoing a trial of labor after cesarean (TOLAC) are scarce. We aimed to evaluate the risk factors and the rate of OASI among women undergoing TOLAC who never delivered vaginally. STUDY DESIGN: A retrospective cohort study of all women undergoing a TOLAC and never delivered vaginally between 3/2011 and 6/2020. Maternal and intrapartum characteristics were compared between OASI and no-OASI groups. We matched groups to earliest gestational age in which OASI has occurred. A further comparison was made between the study cohort and a cohort of primiparous women undergoing a vaginal delivery, including gestational ages at which OASI has occurred in that cohort. RESULTS: During the study period there were 2061 TOLACs among women without prior vaginal delivery. Of these, 76 % (1566/2061) had a successful vaginal delivery. Overall, 22/2061 (1.1 %) cases of OASI occurred. There was no difference in maternal demographic, obstetrical and medical history characteristics between the study groups. The mean gestational age at TOLAC was lower in the OASI group (390/7 ± 12/7 vs. 395/7 ± 12/7, p = 0.012). In multivariable regression analysis, gestational age was negatively associated with OASI [adjusted odds ratio, 95 % (confidence interval) 0.95 (0.91-0.99), for each day increase in gestational age)]. The rate of OASI in the study cohort did not differ from the rate of OASI among primiparous women during the same study period (347/27975, 1.2 %, p = 0.686). CONCLUSION: Gestational age at delivery is the only predictor of OASI among women with no prior vaginal deliveries undergoing a TOLAC. The incidence of OASI in this population is 1.1 % and does not differ from that of primiparous women.

Prediction of adverse neonatal outcome among newborns born through meconium-stained amniotic fluid.

OBJECTIVE: To study maternal and intrapartum factors associated with adverse neonatal outcome in deliveries complicated by meconium-stained amniotic fluid (MSAF). METHODS: A retrospective cohort study of all women with singleton gestations undergoing trial of labor with MSAF during 2011-2020. Deliveries with adverse neonatal outcome were compared with deliveries without. RESULTS: Overall, 11 329 were included; 376 (3.3%) neonates were diagnosed with adverse neonatal outcomes. Multivariable regression analysis underlined the following factors as independently associated with composite adverse neonatal outcome: pregestational diabetes (odds ratio [OR] 3.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.09-9.43, P = 0.031), polyhydramnios (OR 2.14, 95% CI 1.33-3.44, P = 0.002), fever (OR 2.52, 95% CI 1.67-3.80, P < 0.001), and amnioinfusion (OR 1.73, 95% CI 1.24-2.2438, P = 0.003). When 0, 1, 2, and 3 of the independent risk factors identified were present, the rates of adverse neonatal outcome were 2.9%, 5.5%, 10.0%, and 100%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The current study's results suggest that special attention should be payed to deliveries complicated by MSAF and with any of the following factors-polyhydramnios, intrapartum fever, amnioinfusion, and pregestational diabetes.

Single- versus multiple-dose methotrexate in cesarean scar pregnancies management: treatment and reproductive outcomes.

PURPOSE: We aim to assess the outcome of the treatment of cesarean scar pregnancy (CSP) with single-dose methotrexate (MTX) versus multiple-dose MTX protocols. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study including two tertiary medical centers was conducted. All women diagnosed with CSPs between the years 2011 and 2019 that were initially managed with systemic MTX were included. Single-dose MTX practiced in one medical center was compared to multiple-dose MTX, practiced in the other medical center. RESULTS: The study cohort included 31 women in the single dose and 32 women in the multiple-dose MTX groups. Baseline characteristics did not differ between groups. The primary outcome occurred in 12 (38.7%) of the cases in the single-dose group and in 6 (18.8%) in the multiple-dose group (p = 0.083). The rate of conversion to surgical treatment was similar in both groups (4 vs. 5 in the single vs. multiple-dose groups, respectively, p = 0.758). There was no significant difference between the single- and the multiple-dose groups in the administration of blood products (16.1% vs. 3.1%, respectively, p = 0.104), total days of admission (18 ± 9.3 vs. 17 ± 12.8 days, respectively, p = 0.850), and readmission rate (32.3% vs. 21.9%, respectively, p = 0.353). Data regarding sequential pregnancies were available for 11 women in the single and 13 women in the multiple-dose MTX groups. There were no differences between the groups in rates of term deliveries, CSP recurrence, and abortions. CONCLUSION: Both single- and multiple-dose MTX treatment protocols offer high success rate with a relatively low complication rate in the treatment of CSP.

Ovaries of patients recently treated with alkylating agent chemotherapy indicate the presence of acute follicle activation, elucidating its role among other proposed mechanisms of follicle loss.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate mechanisms of primordial follicle (PMF) loss in vivo in human ovaries shortly after alkylating agent (AA) chemotherapy. DESIGN: Cohort study. SETTING: Tertiary university medical center. PATIENT(S): Ninety-six women aged 15-39 years who underwent ovarian tissue cryopreservation for fertility preservation. INTERVENTION(S): Fresh ovarian tissue samples were harvested from women treated with AA (n = 24) or non-AA (n = 24) chemotherapy <6 months after treatment and age-matched untreated women (n = 48). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURE(S): Differential follicle counts, time from chemotherapy exposure, immunostaining for apoptosis (cleaved caspase-3) and FOXO3A on tissue harvested within ultrashort time intervals (4-12 days), collagen (Sirius red) and neovascularization (CD34). RESULT(S): AA-treated ovaries had significant loss of PMFs, and significant increase in absolute numbers of growing follicles compared with untreated control ovaries. The number of growing follicles was inversely correlated with time from chemotherapy. Representative staining for FOXO3A observed decreased nuclear localization in PMF oocytes in AA-treated ovaries removed within the ultrashort time interval compared with untreated ovaries. Neither significant loss of PMFs, increase in growing follicles, nor decrease in nuclear FOXO3A were observed in non-AA-treated ovaries. No increased expression of cleaved caspase-3 was seen in PMFs within the ultrashort time interval after AA or non-AA chemotherapy. Significant stromal fibrosis and neovascularization were observed in AA-treated ovaries only after follicle loss had already occurred (4-6 months). CONCLUSION(S): Follicle activation occurs in vivo in ovaries of patients treated with AA, indicating a pathologic mechanism which may contribute to chemotherapy-induced follicle loss.

The association of vacuum-assisted delivery and shoulder dystocia among macrosomic newborns: a retrospective study.

PURPOSE: Although shoulder dystocia (ShD) is associated with fetal macrosomia and vacuum-assisted delivery (VAD), the independent role of the latter in the occurrence of ShD is yet to be completely elucidated, as it is difficult to study its true independent contribution to ShD formation in the presence of many confounding factors. Therefore, we aimed to study whether VAD is independently associated with an increased risk for ShD among macrosomic newborns. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study from a single tertiary medical center including all women who delivered vaginally a macrosomic infant during 2011-2020. We allocated the study cohort into two groups: (1) VAD (2) spontaneous vaginal deliverys, and analyzed risk factors for ShD. A multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify determinants independently associated with ShD occurrence. RESULTS: Of 2,664 deliveries who met the study inclusion criteria, 118 (4.4%) were VAD. The rate of ShD in the entire cohort was 108/2664 (4.1%). The following factors were more frequent among the VAD group: no previous vaginal delivery [odds ratio (OR) 2.4 (95% confidence interval (CI) 1.4-4.0, p < 0.001)], prolonged second stage (OR 11.9; 95% CI 8.1-17.6, p < 0.01), induction of labor (OR 2.4; 95% CI 1.5-3.8, p < 0.01) and ShD (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.0-4.1, p = 0.04). ShD was associated with higher rates of maternal height < 160 cm (OR 2.0; 95% CI 1.3-3.1, p < 0.01), pregestational diabetes (OR 7.2; 95% CI 2.0-26.8, p = 0.01), hypertensive disorder (OR 2.6; 95% CI 1.1-6.2, p = 0.02) and higher birthweight (mean 4,124 vs. 4,167 g, p < 0.01). On multivariate regression analysis, the following factors remained independently associated with ShD occurrence: increased birthweight (aOR 1.0; 95% CI 1.0-1.0, p < 0.01), pregestational diabetes (aOR 5.3; 95% CI 1.1-25.0, p = 0.03), while maternal height was negatively associated with ShD (aOR 0.9; 95% CI 0.9-0.9, p < 0.01). CONCLUSION: In deliveries of neonates above 4000 g, VAD did not independently increase the risk of ShD occurrence. Therefore, when expeditious delivery of a macrosomic infant is required, VAD is a viable option.

Risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injury among parous women.

PURPOSE: Nulliparity and operative vaginal delivery are established risk factor for obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI). However, risk factors for OASIS occurrence among parous women delivering vaginally are not well-established. We aimed to study the risk factors for OASI occurrence among parous women. METHODS: A retrospective study including all parous women who delivered vaginally at term during 2011-2019 at a university hospital. Deliveries of parous women with OASI were compared to deliveries without OASI. The risk factors associated with OASI were investigated. RESULTS: Overall, 35,397 women were included in the study with an OASI rate of 0.4% (n = 144). A higher rate of only one previous vaginal delivery was noted in the OASI group (78.5% vs. 46.4%, OR [95% CI] 4.20, 2.82-6.25, p < 0.001). The rate of vacuum-assisted deliveries was comparable between the study groups. The median birth weight was higher among the OASI group (3566 vs. 3300 g, p < 0.001), as was the rate of macrosomic neonates (19.4% vs. 5.5%, OR [95% CI] 4.15, 2.74-6.29, p < 0.001). On multivariate logistic regression analysis, only two factors were independently positively associated with the occurrence of OASI: a history of only one previous vaginal delivery (adjusted OR [95% CI] 4.34, 2.90-6.49, p = 0.001), and neonatal birth-weight (for each 500 g increment) (adjusted OR [95% CI] 2.51, 1.84-3.44, p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Among parous women, the only factors found to be independently positively associated with OASI were the order of parity and neonatal birth-weight. Vacuum-assisted delivery was not associated with an increased risk of OASI among parous women.

Chorioamnionitis at latent phase more than doubles the risk for cesarean delivery compared to chorioamnionitis at active phase.

PURPOSE: Chorioamnionitis, or intraamniotic infection, is a common condition, carrying an increased risk of intrapartum cesarean delivery (CD). The morbidity related to chorioamnionitis is more common in those undergoing CD, as compared to those with successful vaginal delivery. We aimed to examine the risk factors associated with CD among women with chorioamnionitis. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study from a tertiary medical center. We included women at term carrying a singleton gestation with suspected chorioamnionitis undergoing a trial of labor between 2011 and 2019. The primary outcome was the mode of delivery. RESULTS: Data from 1436 women with chorioamnionitis were analyzed; 1288 (89.7%) were nulliparous. Overall, 1064 (74.1%) delivered vaginally, and 372 (25.9%) by CD. The rate of CD was significantly higher in nulliparous as compared to parous parturients (26.9% vs. 16.9%, P = 0.008), and in those with fever onset at latent phase as compared to those in whom fever appeared at active labor (≥ 6 cm) (47.0% vs. 18.1%, P < 0.001). In a multivariate analysis, CD was positively associated with: onset of fever at latent phase (aOR [95% CI] 4.75 (3.54, 6.32), P < 0.001), nulliparity (aOR [95% CI] 3.25 (1.98, 5.34), P < 0.001), maternal age (aOR [95% CI] 1.52 (1.10, 2.09), P = 0.01) and birth weight (aOR [95% CI] 1.23 (1.04, 1.44), P = 0.01). CONCLUSION: Women with chorioamnionitis had a high rate of CD. Nulliparity and onset of fever prior to active labor were the strongest independent predictors of CD. It remains to be determined whether those deemed at high risk for failed trial of labor, should undergo CD earlier in the course of labor to improve chorioamnionitis-related outcomes.

The association between vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery and anal sphincter injury.

INTRODUCTION: Vacuum-assisted vaginal delivery (VAVD) is considered a major risk factor for obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS). However, it is difficult to estimate its true contribution to the occurrence of OASIS, as its performance may be confounded by other determinants. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the association of VAVD with OASIS among primiparous women compared to SVD. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study including all primiparous women who vaginally delivered a cephalic singleton gestation during the years 2011 to 2020. As VAVDs were not performed before 34 gestational weeks, we capped the cohort at this gestational age. Women were allocated into two groups: VAVDs and spontaneous vaginal deliveries (SVD). We compared women with OASIS to those without and performed a multivariate analysis including factors that were found significant in the univariate analysis. We further divided the whole cohort into different subcategories. The primary outcome was the rate of OASIS in VAVD compared to SVD. RESULTS: Overall, 23,272 primiparous vaginal deliveries were available for evaluation. Of these, 3595 delivered by VAVD and 19,677 delivered spontaneously. OASIS occurred in 421 (1.8%) of the deliveries. OASIS were more common in VAVDs than in SVDs [83 (2.3%) vs. 338 (1.7%), respectively, OR (95% CI) 1.35 (1.06-1.72), p = 0.01]. After multivariate regression analysis, OASIS were not found to be independently associated with the mode of delivery [aOR 1.21 (95% CI) 0.88-1.68, P = 0.23]. In a categorical analysis of OASIS rates by risk factors and mode of delivery, VAVD was not associated with an increase in OASIS among women giving birth to neonates weighing > 3500 g compared to SVD [OR (95% CI) 1.02 (0.65-1.62), P = 0.90]. CONCLUSION: Among primiparous women VAVD did not increase the risk of OASIS compared to SVD.

Risk of anal sphincter injury in trial of labor post cesarean section.

INTRODUCTION: We wanted to evaluate whether secundiparas who achieved vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC) were at an increased risk for obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) compared to primiparas who delivered vaginally, with a stratification by the mode of delivery-spontaneous or operative vaginal delivery. MATERIAL AND METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of primiparous women who delivered by vacuum-assisted delivery between March 2011 and June 2019. Primiparas delivering vaginally and secundiparas undergoing VBAC were compared. The cohort was further stratified into two categories: spontaneous vaginal delivery and operative vaginal delivery. RESULTS: Overall, 23 822 primiparas who delivered vaginally and 1596 secundiparas who underwent VBAC were analyzed. Operative vaginal delivery was performed in 4561 deliveries. OASI rate did not differ between the VBAC and primipara groups (1.3% vs 1.8%, P = .142). A total of 20 857 women delivered by spontaneous vaginal delivery, among them 1180 (5.7%) women were secundiparas and 19 677 (94.3%) were primiparas. OASI rate was comparable between the secundiparas undergoing VBAC and primiparas delivering vaginally (17 [1.4%] vs 338 [1.7%], P = .436). A total of 4561 women delivered by operative vaginal delivery, among them 416 (9.1%) were secundiparas and 4145 (90.9%) were primiparas. The rate of operative vaginal deliveries was higher among the VBAC group compared with the primipara group (6.1% vs 17.4%, P < .001). However, women undergoing successful VBAC had lower rates of OASI compared with primiparas (3 [0.7%] vs 96 [2.3%]; odds ratio [OR] 0.30, 95% CI 0.09-0.97, P = .032). After multivariate logistic regression including all statistically significant factors, OASI was not associated with VBAC in spontaneous or operative vaginal deliveries (adjusted OR 0.85, 95% CI 0.51-1.40 and 0.39, 95% CI 0.12-1.28, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: Secundiparas undergoing VBAC were not at a higher risk of OASI when compared with primiparas delivering vaginally, either in spontaneous or operative vaginal deliveries. This information might aid when counseling women contemplating a trial of labor after cesarean--to address their concerns regarding the risks and benefits of VBAC.

Determinants of adverse neonatal outcome in vaginal deliveries complicated by suspected intraamniotic infection.

PURPOSE: Intraamniotic infection, categorized into isolated maternal fever, suspected intraamniotic infection (SII), and confirmed intraamniotic infection, is associated with neonatal morbidity. However, there is paucity of data regarding the association between intraamniotic infection duration and neonatal outcomes among term singleton vaginal deliveries. We aimed to study the risk factors for adverse neonatal outcome among vaginal deliveries complicated by SII. METHODS: A retrospective observational study conducted at a tertiary medical center. All consecutive singleton term deliveries with SII were included between 2011 and 2019. Maternal and obstetrical characteristics were evaluated to identify risk factors for adverse neonatal outcome. Correlation between SII duration and neonatal adverse outcome was analyzed. RESULTS: Overall, 882 were analyzed. Most women (85.4%) were primiparous. Median gestation age at delivery was 40 2/7 weeks. Median time from SII to delivery was 170 min. Adverse neonatal outcomes occurred in 113 (12.8%) of deliveries. Duration of SII was not associated with adverse neonatal outcome. Analysis for determinants of adverse neonatal outcome revealed that oligohydramnios was more common in pregnancies with adverse neonatal outcome (7/113 (6.2%) vs. 41 (5.4%) OR [95% CI] 2.47 (1.02-5.98), p = 0.03). Duration of second stage of labor was longer in the adverse outcome group (median 179 min vs. 126 min, p = 0.008). Prolonged second stage was more common in the adverse outcome group (60 (53.1%) vs. 273 (35.5%) OR [95% CI] 2.05 (1.38-3.06), p < 0.001). On logistic regression analysis, prolonged second stage was the only modifiable factor independently associated with adverse neonatal outcome [adjusted OR 2.09 (1.37-3.2), p = 0.001]. Other variables tested did not differ between groups. Only phototherapy and base excess ≥ 12 mmol/L were significantly associated with the duration of second stage of labor; for each additional hour of the second stage, the OR for the former increased by 0.34 (p = 0.008), and for the latter by 0.69 (p = 0.007). CONCLUSION: Duration of suspected intraamniotic infection was not associated with increased neonatal morbidity among women delivering vaginally at term. Prolonged second stage was a strong independent predictor of an adverse neonatal outcome among fetuses exposed to intraamniotic infection.