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Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey Sep 2023Cervical cerclage (CC) represents one of the few effective measures currently available for the prevention of preterm delivery caused by cervical insufficiency, thus... (Review)
Review
IMPORTANCE
Cervical cerclage (CC) represents one of the few effective measures currently available for the prevention of preterm delivery caused by cervical insufficiency, thus contributing in the reduction of neonatal morbidity and mortality rates.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published major guidelines on the indications, contraindications, techniques, and timing of placing and removal of CC.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION
A descriptive review of guidelines from the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG), the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC), and the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) on CC was carried out.
RESULTS
There is a consensus among the reviewed guidelines regarding the recommended techniques, the indications for rescue CC, the contraindications, as well as the optimal timing of CC placement and removal. All medical societies also agree that ultrasound-indicated CC is justified in women with history of prior spontaneous PTD or mid-trimester miscarriage and a short cervical length detected on ultrasound. In addition, after CC, serial sonographic measurement of the cervical length, bed rest, and routine use of antibiotics, tocolysis, and progesterone are unanimously discouraged. In case of established preterm labor, CC should be removed, according to ACOG, RCOG, and SOGC. Furthermore, RCOG and SOGC agree on the prerequisites that should be met before attempting CC. These 2 guidelines along with FIGO recommend history-indicated CC for women with 3 or more previous preterm deliveries and/or second trimester pregnancy miscarriages, whereas the ACOG suggests the use of CC in singleton pregnancies with 1 or more previous second trimester miscarriages related to painless cervical dilation or prior CC due to painless cervical dilation in the second trimester. The role of amniocentesis in ruling out intra-amniotic infection before rescue CC remains a matter of debate.
CONCLUSIONS
Cervical cerclage is an obstetric intervention used to prevent miscarriage and preterm delivery in women considered as high-risk for these common pregnancy complications. The development of universal international practice protocols for the placement of CC seems of paramount importance and will hopefully improve the outcomes of such pregnancies.
Topics: Pregnancy; Infant, Newborn; Female; Humans; Premature Birth; Cerclage, Cervical; Abortion, Spontaneous; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Cervix Uteri
PubMed: 37976303
DOI: 10.1097/OGX.0000000000001182 -
Clinics in Perinatology Jun 2024Spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) is a complex and clinically heterogeneous condition that remains incompletely understood, leading to insufficient interventions to... (Review)
Review
Spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB) is a complex and clinically heterogeneous condition that remains incompletely understood, leading to insufficient interventions to effectively prevent it from occurring. Cell-free ribonucleic acid signatures in the maternal circulation have the potential to identify biologically relevant subtypes of sPTB. These could one day be used to predict and prevent sPTB in asymptomatic individuals, and to aid in prognosis and management for individuals presenting with threatened preterm labor and preterm prelabor rupture of membranes.
Topics: Humans; Female; Pregnancy; Cell-Free Nucleic Acids; Premature Birth; Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture; Infant, Newborn; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Prognosis; Biomarkers
PubMed: 38705647
DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2024.02.008 -
The Journal of Pediatrics Feb 2020
Review
Topics: Female; Gestational Age; Glucocorticoids; Humans; Maternal Health; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Prenatal Care
PubMed: 31606149
DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2019.09.015 -
The Journal of Perinatal & Neonatal... 2020
Topics: Female; Humans; Infant Welfare; Infant, Newborn; Maternal Health Services; Maternal Welfare; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Outcome; Pregnancy, High-Risk; Premature Birth; Preventive Health Services
PubMed: 32332434
DOI: 10.1097/JPN.0000000000000476 -
Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology Jun 2020Necessary nonobstetric surgical procedures should not be withheld from pregnant women for fear of risks to the women and their pregnancies; however, careful preoperative... (Review)
Review
Necessary nonobstetric surgical procedures should not be withheld from pregnant women for fear of risks to the women and their pregnancies; however, careful preoperative planning should be undertaken to mitigate risks that may be present. Fetal monitoring recommendations will be dependent on the woman's preferences, gestational age of the pregnancy, and situational-specific risks (including anticipated risk of cardiovascular instability). Some fetal heart rate changes (lower baseline, less variability) can be anticipated, depending on anesthetic agents utilized during the procedure, and should not routinely prompt delivery.
Topics: Female; Fetal Monitoring; Gestational Age; Humans; Monitoring, Intraoperative; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Patient Selection; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Risk Adjustment; Risk Assessment; Surgical Procedures, Operative
PubMed: 32195683
DOI: 10.1097/GRF.0000000000000526 -
Obstetrical & Gynecological Survey May 2022Preterm labor (PTL) is one of the most common and serious pregnancy complications associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality, as well as long-term... (Review)
Review
IMPORTANCE
Preterm labor (PTL) is one of the most common and serious pregnancy complications associated with significant perinatal morbidity and mortality, as well as long-term neurologic impairment in the offspring.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to review and compare the most recently published major guidelines on diagnosis, management, prediction, and prevention of this severe complication of pregnancy.
EVIDENCE ACQUISITION
A descriptive review of guidelines from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), the World Health Organization, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, the New South Wales Government, and the European Association of Perinatal Medicine (EAPM) on PTL was carried out.
RESULTS
There is a consensus among the reviewed guidelines that the diagnosis of PTL is based on clinical criteria, physical examination, measurement of cervical length (CL) with transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and use of biomarkers, although there is disagreement on the first-line diagnostic test. The NICE and the EAPM are in favor of TVUS CL measurement, whereas the New South Wales Government mentions that fetal fibronectin testing is the mainstay for PTL diagnosis. Moreover, there is consistency among the guidelines regarding the importance of treating PTL up to 34 weeks of gestation, to delay delivery for 48 hours, for the administration of antenatal corticosteroids, magnesium sulfate, and in utero transfer to higher care facility, although several discrepancies exist regarding the tocolytic drugs of choice and the administration of corticosteroids and magnesium sulfate after 34 and 30 gestational weeks, respectively. Routine cesarean delivery in case of PTL is unanimously not recommended. Finally, the NICE, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and the EAPM highlight the significance of screening for PTL by TVUS CL measurement between 16 and 24 weeks of gestation and suggest the use of either vaginal progesterone or cervical cerclage for the prevention of PTL, based on specific indications. Cervical pessary is not recommended as a preventive measure.
CONCLUSIONS
Preterm labor is a significant contributor of perinatal morbidity and mortality with a substantial impact on health care systems. Thus, it seems of paramount importance to develop consistent international practice protocols for timely diagnosis and effective management of this major obstetric complication and subsequently improve pregnancy outcomes.
Topics: Adrenal Cortex Hormones; Cervix Uteri; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Magnesium Sulfate; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pregnancy; Premature Birth; Tocolytic Agents
PubMed: 35522432
DOI: 10.1097/OGX.0000000000001023 -
Surgical Endoscopy Oct 2022The optimal surgical approach to perform during pregnancy is still controversial. This study evaluated pregnancy and operative outcomes in women undergoing an...
BACKGROUND
The optimal surgical approach to perform during pregnancy is still controversial. This study evaluated pregnancy and operative outcomes in women undergoing an appendectomy or cholecystectomy during pregnancy, and compared them between the laparoscopic and open approach using nationwide population-based data.
METHODS
Between 2009 and 2019, a total of 2941 pregnant women with procedure codes for an appendectomy or cholecystectomy were extracted from the Korean National Health Insurance claims data (laparoscopy: 1504; open: 1437). Surgical outcomes [length of stay (LOS), anesthesia time, 30-day readmission rates, transfusion rates, second laparotomy, and 30-day mortality rates] and pregnancy outcomes (live birth rate, overall and spontaneous abortion rates, threatened abortion rate, type of delivery, preterm labor, stillbirth, fetal screening abnormalities, and intrauterine growth retardation) were compared between the open and laparoscopic groups.
RESULTS
The laparoscopic group had a significantly shorter LOS than the open group, and transfusions were less frequent in the laparoscopic group. Mortality, 30-day readmission rates, and second laparotomy were not statistically significant between the two groups. There were no significant differences in fetal loss and live birth rates between the two groups in all gestational ages. Preterm labor within 30 days of surgery was more frequent in the laparoscopy group than in the open surgery group, especially for those in their first and third trimesters. Open procedures were associated with an increased rate of cesarean sections.
CONCLUSIONS
Laparoscopic surgery was found to be feasible and safe without adverse postoperative outcomes. Careful observation of postoperative preterm labor is necessary, especially for women who undergo laparoscopic surgery in their first and third trimesters.
Topics: Appendectomy; Appendicitis; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Laparoscopy; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pregnancy; Pregnancy Complications; Pregnancy Outcome; Republic of Korea; Retrospective Studies
PubMed: 35304619
DOI: 10.1007/s00464-022-09188-9 -
Reproductive Sciences (Thousand Oaks,... Jan 2022The objective of this study is to verify the association between endometriosis and preterm birth through systematic review and meta-analysis. Is there an increased risk... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
The objective of this study is to verify the association between endometriosis and preterm birth through systematic review and meta-analysis. Is there an increased risk of premature birth in women with endometriosis compared to women without this diagnosis? The databases searched were PubMed, Medline, and LILACS in order to identify all studies published up to April 2020, using the keywords (prematurity OR preterm birth OR premature birth OR premature labor OR obstetric premature labor OR preterm labor OR premature obstetric labor) AND (endometriosis OR adenomyosis OR endometrioma OR endometriomas). A manual research was also performed through the analysis of theses, book chapters, reference references, guidelines, and reviews. All published prospective cohort studies that reported the prevalence of preterm delivery among women with endometriosis, adenomyosis, or endometrioma were included, comparing it to the control group of women without such diagnoses. The random-effects model, the calculation of relative risk, and the confidence interval of 95% were used to perform the meta-analysis. Three studies involving 10,111 patients were included. Compared to women without endometriosis, women with endometriosis present an increased risk of premature birth (RR: 2.68, 95% CI [1.19; 6.02], I = 91%). In the subgroup of women with spontaneous conception, endometriosis is also a risk factor for prematurity (RR: 3.26, 95% CI [2.09; 5.09], I = 0%, 2 studies, 682 participants). The evidence presented suggests that women with endometriosis should be alerted to a potential risk of preterm birth. PROSPERO registration number, CRD42020189451.
Topics: Endometriosis; Female; Humans; Infant, Newborn; Pregnancy; Premature Birth
PubMed: 34426947
DOI: 10.1007/s43032-021-00712-1 -
PLoS Medicine Dec 2019There is widespread, increasing use of magnesium sulphate in obstetric practice for pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, and preterm fetal neuroprotection; benefit for preventing... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
BACKGROUND
There is widespread, increasing use of magnesium sulphate in obstetric practice for pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, and preterm fetal neuroprotection; benefit for preventing preterm labour and birth (tocolysis) is unproven. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess whether antenatal magnesium sulphate is associated with unintended adverse neonatal outcomes.
METHODS AND FINDINGS
CINAHL, Cochrane Library, LILACS, MEDLINE, Embase, TOXLINE, and Web of Science, were searched (inceptions to 3 September 2019). Randomised, quasi-randomised, and non-randomised trials, cohort and case-control studies, and case reports assessing antenatal magnesium sulphate for pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, fetal neuroprotection, or tocolysis, compared with placebo/no treatment or a different magnesium sulphate regimen, were included. The primary outcome was perinatal death. Secondary outcomes included pre-specified and non-pre-specified adverse neonatal outcomes. Two reviewers screened 5,890 articles, extracted data, and assessed risk of bias following Cochrane Handbook and RTI Item Bank guidance. For randomised trials, pooled risk ratios (RRs) or mean differences, with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), were calculated using fixed- or random-effects meta-analysis. Non-randomised data were tabulated and narratively summarised. We included 197 studies (40 randomised trials, 138 non-randomised studies, and 19 case reports), of mixed quality. The 40 trials (randomising 19,265 women and their babies) were conducted from 1987 to 2018 across high- (16 trials) and low/middle-income countries (23 trials) (1 mixed). Indications included pre-eclampsia/eclampsia (24 trials), fetal neuroprotection (7 trials), and tocolysis (9 trials); 18 trials compared magnesium sulphate with placebo/no treatment, and 22 compared different regimens. For perinatal death, no clear difference in randomised trials was observed between magnesium sulphate and placebo/no treatment (RR 1.01; 95% CI 0.92 to 1.10; 8 trials, 13,654 babies), nor between regimens. Eleven of 138 non-randomised studies reported on perinatal death. Only 1 cohort (127 babies; moderate to high risk of bias) observed an increased risk of perinatal death with >48 versus ≤48 grams magnesium sulphate exposure for tocolysis. No clear secondary adverse neonatal outcomes were observed in randomised trials, and a very limited number of possible adverse outcomes warranting further consideration were identified in non-randomised studies. Where non-randomised studies observed possible harms, often no or few confounders were controlled for (moderate to high risk of bias), samples were small (200 babies or fewer), and/or results were from subgroup analyses. Limitations include missing data for important outcomes across most studies, heterogeneity of included studies, and inclusion of published data only.
CONCLUSIONS
Our findings do not support clear associations between antenatal magnesium sulphate for beneficial indications and adverse neonatal outcomes. Further large, high-quality studies (prospective cohorts or individual participant data meta-analyses) assessing specific outcomes, or the impact of regimen, pregnancy, or birth characteristics on these outcomes, would further inform safety recommendations. PROSPERO: CRD42013004451.
Topics: Case-Control Studies; Eclampsia; Female; Humans; Magnesium Sulfate; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Parturition; Pre-Eclampsia; Pregnancy; Premature Birth; Prenatal Care; Prospective Studies
PubMed: 31809499
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1002988 -
Journal of Clinical Pharmacy and... Jul 2022Premature birth affects more than 15 million infants, as well as mothers and families around the world. With the relaxation of the two-child policy, the problem of... (Meta-Analysis)
Meta-Analysis
WHAT IS KNOWN AND OBJECTIVE
Premature birth affects more than 15 million infants, as well as mothers and families around the world. With the relaxation of the two-child policy, the problem of premature birth has become relatively prominent in China. According to statistics, China had a birth population of 15.23 million in 2018, with a considerably large number of premature births. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of tocolysis in the treatment of preterm delivery, provide clinical evidence for medical staff and promote the self-management of patients with premature births.
METHODS
Four English databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Science) were retrieved by computer, the retrieval time was from the establishment of each database to November 2021, and the randomized controlled trials for the treatment of preterm delivery were screened according to the pre-set natriuretic exclusion criteria. After literature screening, data selection and risk of bias evaluation were independently conducted by two researchers. R 4.1.1 and Stata 17.0 software were used for statistical analysis.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
A total of 44 RCTs were included, including 6939 patients. The results of network meta-analysis reveal that in terms of effectiveness, indomethacin was the most effective intervention measure, followed by nifedipine, and the difference was statistically significant; regarding safety, nifedipine was the safest intervention measure, followed by indomethacin, and the difference was statistically significant; and in respect of adverse reactions, ritodrine had the highest probability, and the difference was statistically significant.
WHAT IS NEW AND CONCLUSION
Nifedipine may be better for delayed delivery and less likely to produce adverse pregnancy outcomes, followed by indomethacin. Limited by the number and quality of recipient studies, the aforementioned conclusions need to be verified through more high-quality studies. At the same time, the focus should be on patients with twin pregnancy and patients with clinical manifestations of extreme preterm delivery.
Topics: Female; Humans; Indomethacin; Infant; Infant, Newborn; Network Meta-Analysis; Nifedipine; Obstetric Labor, Premature; Pregnancy; Premature Birth; Tocolysis; Tocolytic Agents
PubMed: 35304748
DOI: 10.1111/jcpt.13641