A review of the contemporary evidence on rescue cervical cerclage

Patient perspectives and preferences on cerclage and preterm birth: a focus group study

AIM

This qualitative focus group study aims to asses cerclage-related symptoms, the impact of a cerclage on daily functioning and patient perspectives of their healthcare experience. This study extends beyond the current focus on surgical and obstetric outcomes of a cerclage, thereby contributing to a more comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by individuals in the context of extreme preterm birth and fetal loss and the impact of a cerclage on multiple facets in life.

METHODS

Participants were recruited from the Amsterdam University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands or via the website of a Dutch patient organization for (extreme) preterm birth. Eligible participants were ≥ 18 years old with a previous vaginal and/or abdominal cerclage with a subsequent delivery at ≥ 34 weeks of gestation with neonatal survival. Two focus group discussions (FGD) were performed. A predefined format was used, which was identical for both the vaginal and abdominal cerclage group. The International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF-DH) was used to provide structure. Outcomes were a broad range of participants reported perspectives on physical, emotional, and social-related quality of life.

RESULTS

In the Vaginal Cerclage Group (VCG) and Abdominal Cerclage Group (ACG), respectively, 11 and 8 participants were included. Fear for a subsequent pregnancy loss was the most limiting factor to perform daily activities during pregnancy in all participants with a cerclage. Fear to conceive again because of prior second-trimester fetal loss was experienced by 27% in the VCG and 13% in the ACG. The majority of participants experienced a reduction in anxiety after placement of their cerclage (VCG = 64%, ACG = 75%). Decreased mobility/bedrest (VCG = 100%, ACG = 75%) and blood loss (VCG = 55%, ACG = 13%) were frequently mentioned complaints during pregnancy with cerclage. Other aspects mentioned in both groups were social isolation, the lack of societal participation, and the perceived need to quit work and sports. All participants in the abdominal cerclage group reported a lack of comprehensible and unambiguous information about obstetric management and expectations during pregnancy in secondary care hospitals. Clear communication between secondary and tertiary care hospitals about obstetric management following an abdominal cerclage, for example, about the need for cervical length measurements by ultrasound, the need for bedrest or advice concerning sexual activity was missing (63%). Psychologic support was desired in half of all participants, but was not offered to them.

CONCLUSIONS

The fear of a subsequent pregnancy loss was reported as the most limiting factor in daily life by all participants. Cerclage placement resulted in the reduction of anxiety. Participants mentioned a significant impact of bedrest and activity restriction during pregnancy with cerclage on social participation and daily activities. Unfortunately, no high level evidence is available on this matter. Patients might even benefit from appropriate levels of physical activity throughout their pregnancy to promote their overall well-being. More evidence is needed to determine the optimal level of physical activity. There is a need for clear and unambiguous patient information about obstetric management.

Nomogram-based risk assessment for emergency cervical cerclage failure in patients with cervical insufficiency

Background

Cervical insufficiency can lead to preterm birth and neonatal mortality. Emergency cervical cerclage is a surgical intervention aimed at preventing preterm birth in patients with cervical insufficiency. However, some patients may experience cerclage failure. This study aimed to identify the risk factors associated with cerclage failure and develop a predictive nomogram model for patients with cervical insufficiency undergoing emergency cervical cerclage.

Methods

Data of 200 patients who underwent emergency cervical cerclage for cervical insufficiency were retrospectively analyzed. Patients were categorized into successful and failed groups based on their ability to take the infant home. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify risk factors for cerclage failure. A nomogram model was developed based on multivariate logistic regression results, and its performance was assessed using receiver operating characteristic curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

Univariate logistic regression analysis identified 11 potential risk factors for cerclage failure, including the presence of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), vaginitis, cervical dilation, preoperative C-reactive protein, routine vaginal lavage after cervical cerclage, delivery, gestational age, extended days, chorioamnionitis, intrauterine infection, cervical laceration, and premature rupture of membranes. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that PCOS, cervical dilation after cervical cerclage were independent risk factors for cerclage failure while routine vaginal lavage was a protective factor against failure. The nomogram predictive model demonstrated an area under the curve value of 0.975, indicating excellent discriminatory ability. The calibration plot showed good consistency between the nomogram predictions and actual observations. DCA demonstrated the strong clinical applicability of the nomogram.

Conclusions

This study successfully identified risk factors associated with emergency cervical cerclage failure in patients with cervical insufficiency and developed a predictive nomogram model. This model can assist clinicians in making informed decisions and accurately predicting the risk of cerclage failure in these patients.

Effectiveness and pregnancy outcomes of ultrasound-indicated and physical examination-indicated cervical cerclage: a retrospective study from a single centre

OBJECTIVE

Preterm birth (PTB) is the leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, and cervical incompetence (CIC) is a significant contribution. Cervical cerclage (CC) is an effective obstetric intervention. However, many clinical factors affect the success rate of surgery. The objective was to investigate and compare the pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of patients who underwent ultrasound- and physical examination-indicated cervical cerclage and to explore the influencing factors of preterm delivery before 34 weeks.

METHODS

The sociodemographic characteristics and clinical data of patients with a diagnosis of cervical incompetence who underwent ultrasound- and physical examination-indicated transvaginal cervical cerclage at Nanjing Maternal and Child Health Hospital from January 2020 to December 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. The pregnancy and neonatal outcomes of the patients were evaluated. Continuous variables were compared using Student's t test (for normally distributed data) or the Mann-Whitney U test (for nonnormally distributed data). Categorical variables were analysed using the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test. Additionally, logistic regression analyses and receiver operating characteristic curves were used to evaluate the associations of inflammatory markers with maternal and neonatal outcomes.

RESULTS

This study included 141 participants who underwent cervical cerclage, including 71 with ultrasound-indicated cerclage and 70 with physical examination-indicated cerclage. Compared to those in the ultrasound-indicated cerclage group, the duration from cerclage to delivery, birth weight, and APGAR score in the physical examination-indicated cerclage group were significantly lower, and the rates of delivery at < 28 weeks, < 32 weeks, < 34 weeks, and < 37 weeks of gestation and neonatal mortality were significantly higher (all P < 0.05). Compared to those in the physical ultrasound-indicated cerclage group, in the physical examination-indicated cerclage group, maternal blood inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein (CRP), the systemic immune-inflammation index (SII) and the systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) were significantly higher (P < 0.05). Additionally, maternal blood inflammatory markers, such as the CRP, white blood cell count, platelet to lymphocyte ratio (PLR), SII, and SIRI were significantly higher in the group with delivery before 34 weeks of gestation. Furthermore, the results demonstrated that twin pregnancy had the highest OR for preterm delivery before 34 weeks of gestation (OR = 3.829; 95% CI 1.413-10.373; P = 0.008), as well as the following: the SII level (OR = 1.001; 95% CI 1.000-1.002; P = 0.003) and CRP level (OR = 1.083; 95% CI 1.038-1.131; P = 0.022). The risk factors for preterm delivery before 34 weeks of gestation were twin gestation, an increased SII level and an increased CRP level, which had good combined predictive value.

CONCLUSION

In patients with cervical insufficiency, ultrasound-indicated cervical cerclage appears to lead to better pregnancy outcomes than physical examination-indicated cerclage. Twin pregnancy and maternal blood inflammatory markers, such as the CRP level and the SII, are associated with preterm delivery before 34 weeks of gestation.

Outcomes of Ultrasound or Physical Examination-Indicated Cerclage according to the Degree of Cervical Dilation

OBJECTIVE

Pregnancy outcomes of individuals receiving cervical cerclage when the cervix is dilated are not well known. We sought to examine preterm birth rates after ultrasound or physical examination-indicated cerclage placement according to the degree of cervical dilation.

STUDY DESIGN

This was a retrospective cohort study of individuals with singleton pregnancies undergoing ultrasound or physical examination-indicated cerclage before 240/7 weeks of gestation from 2004 to 2018. Individuals were categorized based on the degree of cervical dilation at the time of cerclage. Our primary outcome was preterm delivery at less than 37 weeks of gestation. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95th confidence intervals (95% CI), controlling for predefined covariates.

RESULTS

Of 147 individuals undergoing ultrasound or physical examination-indicated cerclage, 90/147 (61%) had a closed or 0.5 cm dilated cervix at the time of cerclage placement, 45/147 (31%) had a cervical dilation of 1 to 2.5 cm, and 12/147 (8%) had a cervical dilation of 3 to 4 cm at the time of placement. Individuals with a cervical dilation of 1 to 2.5 cm compared with those who had a closed cervix did not have increased odds of preterm delivery (58 vs. 42%; aOR: 1.95; 95% CI: 0.93-4.07). However, individuals with a cervical dilation of 3 to 4 cm compared with individuals who had a closed cervix had significantly increased odds of preterm delivery (75 vs. 42%; aOR: 4.33; 95% CI: 1.05-17.77).

CONCLUSION

The rate of preterm birth increases with increasing cervical dilation at the time of cerclage placement. However, individuals who have a cerclage placed when the cervix is 1 to 2.5 cm can achieve an outcome that is not significantly different from those who had a cerclage placed when the cervix is closed.

KEY POINTS

· Time from cerclage placement to delivery decreases as cervical dilation increases.. · Individuals 1 to 2.5 cm dilated at the time of cerclage can achieve a favorable outcome.. · A cervical dilation of ≥3 cm at cerclage placement was associated with extreme prematurity..

The efficacy of emergency cervical cerclage in singleton and twin pregnancies: a systematic review with meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

An emergency (rescue) cervical cerclage can be offered to pregnant women presenting with dilatation and prolapsed membranes in the second trimester of pregnancy because of cervical insufficiency. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of an emergency cerclage in both singleton and twin pregnancies in the prevention of extreme premature birth.

DATA SOURCES

We performed a systematic literature search in PubMed and Embase from inception to June 2022 for transvaginal cervical emergency cerclages.

STUDY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

All studies on transvaginal cervical emergency cerclages with at least 5 patients and reporting survival were included.

METHODS

Included studies were assessed for quality and risk of bias with an adjusted Quality In Prognosis Studies tool. Random-effects meta-analyses and meta-regressions were performed for the primary outcome: survival.

RESULTS

Our search yielded 96 studies, incorporating 3239 women, including 14 studies with an expectant management control group, incorporating 746 women. Overall survival after cervical emergency cerclage was 74%, with a fetal survival of 88% and neonatal survival of 90%. Singleton and twin pregnancies showed similar survival, with a pregnancy prolongation of 52 and 37 days and a gestational age at delivery of 30 and 28 weeks, respectively. Meta-regression analyses indicated a significant inverse association between mean gestational age at diagnosis and pregnancy prolongation and no association between dilatation or gestational age at diagnosis and gestational age at delivery. Compared with expectant management, emergency cerclage significantly increased overall survival by 43%, fetal survival by 17% and neonatal survival by 22%, along with a significant pregnancy prolongation of 37 days and reduction in delivery at <28 weeks of gestation of 55%. These effects were more profound in singleton pregnancies than in twin pregnancies.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review indicates that, in pregnancies threatened by extreme premature birth because of cervical insufficiency, emergency cerclage leads to significantly higher survival, accompanied by significant pregnancy prolongation and reduction in delivery at <28 weeks of gestation, compared with expectant management. The mean gestational age at delivery was 30 weeks, independent of dilatation or gestational age at diagnosis. Survival was similar for singleton and twin pregnancies, implying that emergency cerclage should be considered in both.

Effects of Amnioreduction before Physical Examination-Indicated Cerclage on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Propensity Score Matched Study

This study investigated the effects of amnioreduction before physical examination-indicated cerclage on pregnancy outcomes using a propensity score matching analysis. This multicenter retrospective cohort study included women who underwent cerclage operations due to painless cervical dilation in the second trimester (14-28 weeks). The primary outcome was the time from operation until delivery. Secondary outcomes included preterm birth rate and neonatal outcomes. Primary and secondary outcomes were compared between those with amnioreduction and those without amnioreduction. Of 103 women, 31 received preoperative amnioreduction (amnioreduction group) and 72 women did not (no-amnioreduction group). Since there were differences in baseline characteristics and preoperative ultrasound findings between the two groups, we matched 25 women with amnioreduction and 25 women without amnioreduction using a propensity score. In the matched cohort, the amnioreduction group showed a shorter time from operation to delivery than the group without amnioreduction and the hazard ratio of amnioreduction was 2.5 (95% confidence interval; 1.4-4.7). In addition, the preterm birth rate before 28 weeks of gestation and the neonatal composite outcome were higher in the amnioreduction group than that in the group without amnioreduction. Amnioreduction before physical examination-indicated cerclage was associated with poor pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. Therefore, careful consideration is required when performing amnioreduction before cerclage operation.

The Role of Amnioreduction in Emergency Cervical Cerclage with Bulging Membranes: A Retrospective Comparative Study

The purpose of this study was to investigate the role of amnioreduction in patients who underwent emergency cervical cerclage (ECC) with bulging membranes during the second trimester. This retrospective comparative study included 46 singleton pregnant women who had cervical dilation at least 1 cm with bulging membranes beyond the external cervical os and underwent ECC at the Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University between December 2016 and December 2021. Cases were categorized as amnioreduction group (n = 16) and non-amnioreduction group (n = 30) according to whether amnioreduction was performed prior to ECC. The gestational age and cervical dilation at cerclage, operative time, prolongation of pregnancy, and outcomes of pregnancy were compared between the two groups. All 46 patients underwent successful ECC excepted one case with intraoperative rupture of membrane in non-amnioreduction group. In the amnioreduction group, the cervical dilation at cerclage was larger than that in the non-amnioreduction group (4.5 ± 2.2 vs. 2.2 ± 1.2 cm, P < 0.001), and had more patients with cervical dilation ≥4 cm (50.0% vs. 10.0%, P = 0.004). However, the gestational age at cerclage, operative time, prolongation of pregnancy, gestational age at delivery were not significantly different between the two groups (22.9 ± 2.8 vs. 22.9 ± 3.2 weeks, 31.1 ± 9.2 vs. 27.9 ± 11.4 min, 21.3 ± 21.5 vs. 38.7 ± 40.2 days, 25.9 ± 4.5 vs. 28.4 ± 6.1 weeks; P > 0.05). The rates of delivery ≥28 weeks, ≥32 weeks, and live birth were 20.0% vs. 80.0%, 12.5% vs. 26.7%, 56.3% vs. 66.7% (P > 0.05) in amnioreduction group and non-amnioreduction group, respectively. In conclusion, even in cases with larger cervical dilation, the application of amnioreduction with ECC is possible to get the acceptable pregnancy outcomes. These findings suggested that amnioreduction may be a safe and feasible option to be applied before ECC, especially for those with advanced cervical dilation and bulging membranes.

A comparison of pregnancy outcome of emergency modified transvaginal cervicoisthmic cerclage performed in twin and singleton pregnancies

PURPOSE

To compare the pregnancy outcome of emergency cerclage performed in twin and singleton pregnancies.

METHODS

A retrospective trial was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital in Zhejiang, China, from January 2013 to December 2018. A total of 89 women with acute cervical incompetence underwent the emergency cerclage. Main outcome measures were gestational age at delivery and the fetal outcome.

RESULTS

There were 31 twin and 58 singleton pregnancies that underwent emergency cerclage. In singleton pregnancies, gestational age at delivery (31.57 ± 6.11 vs 28.81 ± 4.34, p = 0.016), and prolongation of pregnancy (8.69 ± 6.13 vs 5.41 ± 3.72, p < 0.001) were greater, and the preterm delivery rate before 34 weeks was lower (53.4% vs 80.6%, p = 0.011) compared with twin pregnancies. Fetal weight was greater in singletons than in twins (2377.3 ± 862.1 vs 1630.3 ± 557.6, p < 0.001), but the fetal survival rate was similar. The proportion of twin gestations was significantly higher in the group with preterm delivery before 34 weeks (44.6% vs 18.2%, p = 0.011) and the proportion of previous term delivery was higher in the group with delivery at or after 34 weeks (30.3% vs 12.5%, p = 0.039). The group with preterm delivery before 34 weeks had a significantly larger size of visible membranes at cerclage than the group with delivery at or after 34 weeks (2.23 ± 0.86 vs 1.64 ± 0.80, p = 0.001). In binary logistic regression analysis, twin gestations and a larger size of visible membranes were associated with an increased risk of preterm delivery.

CONCLUSION

The pregnancy outcome of emergency cerclage appears to have a better prognosis in singleton pregnancies than in twin pregnancies, and twin pregnancy is a risk factor for preterm delivery.

Pregnancy outcomes and factors affecting the clinical effects of cervical cerclage when used for different indications: A retrospective study of 326 cases

OBJECTIVE

To compare pregnancy outcomes resulting from the use of cervical cerclage for different indications and investigate factors that might influence the clinical effects of cervical cerclage.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective study of pregnant women who received cervical cerclage in The Women's Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, China. Patients were divided into three groups: a history-indicated group; an ultrasound-indicated group and a physical examination-indicated group. The pregnancy outcomes of the three groups were then compared. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis were performed to assess the independent risk factors.

RESULTS

Statistical differences were evident when the history-indicated group and the ultrasound-indicated group were compared with the physical examination-indicated group for gestational age at delivery [37.3(33.3-38.9), 35.4(28.9-38.4) vs. 26.1 (24.3-28.4) weeks, respectively, P < 0.05], percentage of cases delivered at < 28 weeks of gestation (13.4%, 20.3% vs. 74.3%, respectively, P < 0.05), percentage of cases delivered at < 37 weeks of gestation (42.7%, 54.2% vs. 91.4%, respectively, P < 0.05) and fetal survival rate (88.4%, 81.4% vs. 40.0%, respectively, P < 0.05). The history-indicated group and the ultrasound-indicated group were similar with regards to these outcomes. The independent risk factors affecting the clinical effects of cervical cerclage include age, body mass index (BMI), history of prior preterm birth and second-trimester loss, C-reactive protein (CRP) >5 mg/L and cervical dilation ≥3 cm (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy outcomes were similar when compared between history-indicated and ultrasound-indicated cerclage. Serial cervical surveillance is beneficial for pregnant with a history of cervical insufficiency, and the placement of cervical cerclages in response to ultrasonographically detected shortening of the cervical length is a medically acceptable alternative to the use of history-indicated cerclage.

Emergency cerclage in singleton pregnancies with painless cervical dilatation: A meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

Emergency cerclage is the most common active intervention in pregnant women with cervical insufficiency. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the effectiveness of emergency cerclage vs expectant management on maternal and perinatal outcomes, and to assess the current status of evidence.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

A search was conducted from 1 June 2019 until 1 September 2019 and eligible studies were identified in the MEDLINE, Scopus, Cochrane and US clinical trials registry without limitations concerning the publication dates and languages. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs), non-RCTs and observational studies comparing emergency cerclage with no cerclage/expectant management, in women presenting with painless cervical dilatation were included.

RESULTS

The electronic search yielded 3607 potential studies, of which 38 were fully reviewed and 12 observational studies (1021 participants) were included. Cerclage was superior to expectant management for the primary outcomes of preterm birth before 28 and 32 gestational weeks, OR 0.25 (95% CI 0.16-0.39, five studies, N = 392, I² = 41%, low quality) and 0.08 (95% CI 0.02-0.29, four studies, N = 176, I² = 51%, low quality), respectively. Cerclage was also superior to expectant management for the secondary outcomes of fetal loss OR 0.26 (95% CI 0.12-0.56, 8 studies, N = 455, I² = 46%, very low-quality), pregnancy prolongation in days mean difference 47.45 (95% CI 39.89-55.0, 12 studies, N = 1027 I² = 86%, very low quality), gestational age at birth in weeks mean difference 5.68 (95% CI 4.69-6.67, 9 studies, N = 892, I² = 73%, very low quality), admission to neonatal intensive care OR 0.21 (95% CI 0.07-0.70, two studies, N = 79, I² = 36%, very low quality) and neonatal death OR 0.12 (95% CI 0.04-0.34, five studies, N = 130, I² = 0%, very low quality). There were no differences between cerclage and expectant management concerning premature rupture of membranes during or after the procedure OR 0.68 (95% CI 0.31-1.48, two studies, N = 155, I² = 85%, very low quality) and chorioamnionitis OR 1.14 (95% CI 0.31-4.25, three studies, N = 88, I² = 33%, very low quality).

CONCLUSIONS

Emergency cerclage in pregnant women with painless cervical dilatation seems to decrease preterm births, prolong the pregnancy, and decrease the neonatal deaths and fetal losses, but does not increase the risk of chorioamnionitis and premature rupture of membranes. Despite the extremely favorable estimates for cerclage, the results should be viewed with caution because, as a result of the lack of randomized control trials, the quality of evidence is low to very low.

Balloon tamponade for successful emergency cervical cerclage

AIM

To illustrate the method of emergency cerclage with the balloon tamponade and demonstrate the efficacy of this surgery method.

METHODS

Procedures of the balloon tamponade assisted emergency cerclage were reviewed in detail and outcomes of 39 patients treated with this way were evaluated.

RESULTS

From 2017 to 2019, emergency cerclage was successfully performed in 39 patients with a dilated cervix and bulging fetal membranes, assisted by the balloon tamponade. The diameter of the bulging prolapsed membranes ranged from 0.0-10.0 cm, with a median of 2.0 cm. Prolongation of the pregnancy period was from 8 to 138 days, with a median of 29 days. No maternal complications including infections, cervical laceration and cervical bleeding were observed perioperative period.

CONCLUSION

Emergency cerclage is an effective way to prolong gestational period in patients with advanced cervical dilatation and bulging membranes. The balloon tamponade assisted emergency cerclage makes the replacement of fetal membranes back into the uterine cavity easier and effectively, then a successful and convenient emergency cerclage can be performed.

Perinatal Outcomes After Emergency Cervical Cerclage for Cervical Insufficiency with Prolapsed Membranes

Background

To study the clinical effective of emergency cervical cerclage (ECC) in pregnant women who have cervical insufficiency with prolapsed membranes.

Material/Methods

This study was devised as a retrospective cohort in a single medical center, in which we collected clinical data from patient records. Inclusion criteria were: physical examination indicated ECC was performed at 15 to 25 gestational weeks at the Sixth Medical Center of the PLA General Hospital, and singleton pregnancy. The collected clinical data included: duration of pregnancy at delivery, interval between ECC and delivery, neonatal weight, neonatal mortality, neonatal morbidity, and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) admission.

Results

We included 50 women with singleton pregnancies. No surgical complications occurred in any patients. The gestational age at cerclage was 21.3±2.2 weeks. No patients had membrane damage due to surgery. No surgical complications were reported. Five (10%) patients underwent chorioamnionitis. The time interval between ECC and delivery was 11.2±7.1 weeks. The mean gestational age at delivery was 34.1 weeks. The rate of vaginal delivery was 96%. Ten patients had pregnancy lasting longer than 36 weeks. The mean neonate delivery weight was 2510.7 g. Twenty neonates were admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), and the mean NICU stay was 21 days.

Conclusions

ECC has good perinatal results. Our results provide clinical evidence for the efficacy and risks of ECC.

Emergency cerclage: gestational and neonatal outcomes

BACKGROUND

The gestational and neonatal outcomes of women with early cervical dilatation undergoing emergency cerclage were evaluated and compared with women treated with expectant management and bed rest.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of pregnant women admitted between 2001 and 2017 with a diagnosis of early cervical dilatation and/or bulging membranes. Patients with a singleton pregnancy of a fetus without malformations, between 16 and 25 weeks and 6 days, with cervical dilatation of 1 to 3 cm were included; patients who delivered or miscarried within 2 days after admission were excluded.

RESULTS

The study enrolled 30 patients: 19 in the cerclage group and 11 in the rest group. There was a significant difference, with the cerclage group showing better results concerning gestational age at delivery (28.7 vs. 23.3 weeks; p=0.031) and latency between hospital admission and delivery (48.6 vs. 16 days; p=0.016). The fetal death rate was lower in the cerclage group (5.3% vs. 54.5%, p=0.004). Considering gestational age at delivery of live newborns, no difference was observed between the cerclage and rest groups (29.13 vs. 27.4 weeks; p=0.857).

CONCLUSIONS

Emergency cerclage was associated with longer latency, a significant impact on gestational age at delivery and reduction in the fetal death rate.

Amniotic fluid proteomic signatures of cervical insufficiency and their association with length of latency

PROBLEM

Cervical insufficiency is a precursor of preterm birth. Treatment with emergency cervical cerclage is contraindicated in the presence of intra-amniotic infection. Detecting infection with Gram stain and culture of amniotic fluid lacks sensitivity. Proteomic profiling of amniotic fluid in cervical insufficiency may help identify pregnancies best suited for emergency cerclage.

METHOD OF STUDY

Thirty-two pregnant women underwent amniocentesis for routine genetic testing (n = 22) or after diagnosis of cervical insufficiency (n = 10). The proteomic profiles of the amniotic fluid samples were compared in a cross-sectional fashion, including sub-analyses of women with cervical insufficiency and latency periods of <1 week and >1 week post-diagnosis.

RESULTS

Mean gestational age at diagnosis of cervical insufficiency was 21.4 weeks (95% CI 20.6-22.1). Proteomic analysis yielded 40 (7.2%, P < 0.05) differentially expressed proteins between women with delivery <1 week (n = 6) vs. >1 week (n = 4). Women who delivered <1 week had activated inflammatory response (z = 2.3, P = 6.71E-09), chemotaxis of immune cells (z = 2.9, P = 2.01E-08), and inhibited bacterial growth (z = -2.2, P = 5.82E-05). A multivariate model of eight biomarkers positively associated with cases of <1 week latency and distinguished cases from controls (97.8%, cross-validation accuracy 92.7%, P = 0.0009).

CONCLUSION

In this pilot study, significant differences in the amniotic fluid proteomic profiles in cases of cervical insufficiency compared to genetic amniocentesis were observed. Proteomic signatures were predictive of achieving latency > 1 week after diagnosis of cervical insufficiency. These preliminary findings suggest that proteomic analysis may be of value in predicting outcome following cervical insufficiency and warrants further validation in larger studies.

Successful Rescue Cerclage in a Monochorionic Diamniotic Twin Pregnancy at 20 Weeks: Case Report and Overview of Literature

BACKGROUND

In twin pregnancies, elective cerclage placement based on obstetrical history or ultrasound findings has been shown to be ineffective and even harmful. There are currently no guidelines for the use of rescue cervical cerclage in twin pregnancies.

CASE

The current report presents the case of a 33-year-old patient with monochorionic diamniotic twins (MCDA) found to have dilated cervix at 3.5cm with exposed membranes upon physical examination at 19 weeks and 3 days. An emergency McDonald cerclage was placed at 20 weeks and the patient carried the current pregnancy until 35weeks 6 days.

CONCLUSION

Rescue cerclage represents an important option to consider in order to preserve twin pregnancies regardless of chorionicity.

Amniotic fluid HIF1α and exosomal HIF1α in cervical insufficiency patients with physical examination-indicated cerclage

OBJECTIVE

Hypoxia inducible factor 1α (HIF1α) has been reported to activate inflammatory cascade. Recently, exosomes have been known to have pivotal roles in intercellular communication. The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of amniotic fluid (AF) HIF1α, exosomal HIF1α, and inflammatory cytokines such as interleukin 1α (IL1α), interleukin 1β (IL1β), interleukin 6 (IL6), and tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) between physical examination-indicated cerclage (PEIC) and control group. We also investigated the associations between biomarkers and amniocentesis-to-delivery interval and the correlations of inflammatory cytokines, HIF1α, and exosomal HIF1α.

METHODS

Case-control study was performed. Cases are defined as 16 patients who underwent PEIC and controls are 19 women who underwent amniocentesis for confirming chromosomal abnormalities. The concentration of IL1α, IL1β, IL6, TNFα, HIF1α, and exosomal HIF1α were measured using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Exosomes were confirmed by tumor susceptibility Gene 101 (TSG 101) and transmission electron microscopy (TEM).

RESULTS

The mean HIF1α in PEIC group was higher than control group (PEIC, 15.03 ± 9.60-pg/mL versus control, 2.96 ± 1.99 pg/mL; p < .01). There were significant differences in inflammatory cytokines between two groups. A significant difference in exosomal HIF1α was shown between two groups (PEIC, 27.97 ± 28.61-µg/mL versus control, 12.42 ± 8.20 µg/mL; p < .01). HIF1α, IL1α, IL6, TNFα, and exosomal HIF1α showed significantly negative association with cerclage-to-delivery interval. However, IL1β was not associated with cerclage-to-delivery interval. HIF1α was positively correlated with exosomal HIF1α (rho = 0.93, p < .01). Both HIF1α and exosomal HIF1α were significantly associated with TNFα (rho = 0.94, p < .01; rho = 0.97, p < .01). Both HIF-1α and exosomal HIF1α had positive correlation with IL1α (rho = 0.96, p < .01; rho = 0.91, p < .01). However, IL1β showed no correlations with HIF1α and exosomal HIF1α. A positive correlation between HIF-1α and IL6 was observed (rho = 0.58, p = .01.) Exosomal HIF1α also had correlation with IL6 (rho = 0.52, p = .03).

CONCLUSIONS

This study demonstrated that amniotic fluid (AF) HIF1α and AF exosomal HIF1α were higher in physical examination-indicated cerclage (PEIC) group than control group. AF HIF1α and AF exosomal HIF1α were associated with shorter amniocentesis-to-delivery interval. More importantly, they had positive correlations with AF inflammatory cytokines such as IL1α, IL6, and TNFα. Our results may indicate that AF HIF1α and AF exosomes interact with AF inflammatory cytokines and contribute inflammatory cascade in complicated pregnancies.

Clinical effect of emergency cervical cerclage and elective cervical cerclage on pregnancy outcome in the cervical-incompetent pregnant women

PURPOSE

To compare the clinical effect of emergency cervical cerclage and elective cervical cerclage on pregnancy outcome in the cervical-incompetent pregnant women.

METHODS

Literature was searched from the databases of Pubmed, Embase and Google scholar. The fixed or random effects model was used to calculate pooled risk ratios on the basis of heterogeneity. Meta-regression, sensitive analysis, subgroup analysis, and publication bias assessment were also conducted to confirm the results according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses 2009.

RESULTS

The meta-analysis results showed that there were significant associations between cerclage operations and pregnancy outcomes in gestation age, birth weight, and PROM rate. Gestation age was significantly higher in women with elective cerclage than those with emergency cerclage, and birth weight was significantly higher in newborns for the elective group as compared with emergency group. The rate of PROM in elective group was lower than emergency group. However, there were no differences between the emergency cerclage group and the elective cerclage group regarding the rate of vaginal delivery.

CONCLUSIONS

This meta-analysis suggests that emergency cerclage has lower gestation age and birth weight than elective cerclage, and it increases the risk of PROM. Further well-designed studies are warranted to confirm these results.

Neutrophil elastase in amniotic fluid as a predictor of preterm birth after emergent cervical cerclage

INTRODUCTION

The aim of this study was to investigate neutrophil elastase (NE) in amniotic fluid as a potential marker for predicting pregnancy continuation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We enrolled 34 pregnant women with bulging fetal membrane during the second trimester who underwent emergent cerclage after confirming the absence of intrauterine infection (amniotic fluid glucose ≥15 mg/dL). Amniotic fluid NE levels were compared between women who completed and did not complete 30, 34, and 36 weeks of gestation, and the optimal cut-off value for predicting pregnancy continuation was estimated. Moreover, the differences in the duration of continued pregnancy were compared between women with NE levels above and below the optimal cut-off value.

RESULTS

The optimal cut-off value for NE in amniotic fluid that predicted pregnancy continuation beyond 30, 34, and 36 weeks of gestation was 180 ng/mL; this cut-off value had a sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value of 84.0, 77.8, 91.3, and 63.7% beyond 30 weeks of gestation; 87.5, 80.0, 91.5, and 72.3% beyond 34 weeks of gestation; and 85.0, 71.4, 80.9, and 76.9% beyond 36 weeks of gestation, respectively. The duration of continued pregnancy from emergent cerclage to delivery was significantly longer in women with amniotic fluid NE <180 ng/mL (95.1 ± 5.4 days) than in women with amniotic fluid NE ≥180 ng/mL (44.8 ± 14.3 days).

CONCLUSION

The NE levels in amniotic fluid may serve as a useful marker for predicting the duration of continued pregnancy after cervical cerclage.

Addition of adjuvant progesterone to physical-exam-indicated cervical cerclage to prevent preterm birth

AIM

The aim of this study was to assess the effect of vaginal progesterone as an adjuvant therapy to physical-exam-indicated cervical cerclage (PEICC).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study included 53 consecutive singleton women who underwent PEICC because of acute cervical insufficiency at 17-24 gestational weeks. The study population was divided into two groups: the adjuvant progesterone group (n = 18) and the non-adjuvant group (n = 35). A 200-mg dose of vaginal micronized natural progesterone was administered after cerclage in the adjuvant progesterone group. Primary outcome measure was spontaneous preterm birth (SPTB) at <36 weeks.

RESULTS

The SPTB rate at <36 weeks in the adjuvant group was significantly lower than in the non-adjuvant group (17% vs 51%, P < 0.05). Adjuvant progesterone therapy was significantly associated with a reduction in SPTB at <36 weeks (adjusted odds ratio, 0.12; 95% confidence interval, 0.02-0.69, P < 0.05) even after adjusting for known covariates, including a visible membrane size of ≥4 cm, gestational age, prior SPTB, and use of amnioreduction. The frequency of SPTB at <32 weeks, birthweight < 2500 g, and neonatal intensive care unit admission was significantly lower in the adjuvant progesterone group than in the non-adjuvant group (P < 0.05 for all).

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant vaginal progesterone therapy with PEICC was associated with reductions in SPTB, low birthweight, and neonatal intensive care unit admission.

To do or not to do emergency cervical cerclage (a rescue stitch) at 24-28 weeks gestation in addition to progesterone for patients coming early in labor? A prospective randomized trial for efficacy and safety

PURPOSE

To measure the outcome of emergency cervical cerclage (ECC) combined with progesterone vs. progesterone alone in pregnancy prolongation for preterm labor at 24-28 weeks.

METHODS

One hundred patients in early labor were allocated randomly into two equal groups. Group A were treated by ECC and progesterone, and group B were on the same progesterone dose only treatment.

RESULTS

No significant differences were observed in both groups as regard demographic data, fetal gestational age or cervical state on admission. However, a significant pregnancy prolongation was observed in group A (28.44 ± 12.73 days vs. 9.96 ± 3.27 in group B, p < 0.001) with subsequent increase in fetal gestational age (32.04 ± 3.2 vs. 27.86 ± 3.213, p < 0.001), heavier weight, higher Apgar score at 1 and 5 min, and lower rate of cesarean delivery (1033.1 ± 170.83 vs. 715.1 ± 138.73, p < 0.001) (2.68 ± 1.132 vs. 2.14 ± 0.93, p < 0.001), (5.48 ± 2.6 vs. 2.38 ± 1.59, p = 0.01) and (16 vs. 62 %, p = 0.01), respectively. Also neonatal outcomes in terms of early neonatal deaths were lower in this group (18 vs. 46 %, p = 0.049).

CONCLUSIONS

ECC is effective in pregnancy prolongation when judiciously used in combination with progesterone compared to progesterone alone.

Physical Examination-Indicated Cerclage: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To estimate the effectiveness of physical examination-indicated cerclage in the setting of second-trimester cervical dilatation by systematic review and meta-analysis of published studies.

DATA SOURCES

We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, Scopus, ClinicalTrials.gov, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library for studies published between 1966 and 2014 that evaluated cervical cerclage for the treatment of cervical insufficiency.

METHODS OF STUDY SELECTION

The search yielded 6,314 citations. We included cohort studies and randomized controlled trials comparing cerclage placement with expectant management of women with cervical dilatation between 14 and 27 weeks of gestation. Two investigators independently reviewed each citation for inclusion or exclusion and discordant decisions were arbitrated by a third reviewer. Summary estimates were reported as the mean difference and 95% confidence interval (CI) for continuous variables or relative risk and with 95% CI for dichotomous outcomes. Fixed- and random-effects meta-analysis was used, depending on heterogeneity.

TABULATION, INTEGRATION, AND RESULTS

Ten studies met inclusion criteria and were included in the final analysis. One was a randomized controlled trial, two were prospective cohort studies, and the remaining seven were retrospective cohort studies. Of the 757 women, 485 (64%) underwent physical examination-indicated cerclage placement and 272 (36%) were expectantly managed. Cerclage was associated with increased neonatal survival (71% compared with 43%; relative risk 1.65, 95% CI 1.19-2.28) and prolongation of pregnancy (mean difference 33.98 days, 95% CI 17.88-50.08).

CONCLUSION

Physical examination-indicated cerclage is associated with a significant increase in neonatal survival and prolongation of pregnancy of approximately 1 month when compared with no such cerclage. The strength of this conclusion is limited by the potential for bias in the included studies.

Effects of emergency cervical cerclage on pregnancy outcome: a retrospective study of 158 cases

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of emergency cervical cerclage in women with advanced cervical dilatation and bulging of fetal membranes. The study included 158 women who underwent emergency cervical cerclage because of cervix dilatation and protruding membranes in mid-trimester at Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hospital of Sun Yat-sen University. Pregnancy outcomes and pregnancy outcome related to clinical features were analyzed retrospectively. Analysis revealed that the placement of emergency cerclage led to the delivery of live infants with a success rate of 82.28%. The mean interval between cerclage and delivery was 52.16.±26.62 days, with a mean gestation at delivery of 30.3±4.7 weeks and a mean birth weight of 1934.69±570.37 g. No severe maternal complications such as maternal death, hematosepsis, and hysterorrhexis occurred after the operation. Two women (1.25%) had laceration of the cervix, 1 woman (0.61%) suffered pulmonary edema, and 2 women (1.25%) developed deep vein thrombosis (DVT). There were significant correlations between the pregnancy outcome and risk factors, including any presenting symptoms, cervical dilatation, postoperative white blood cell count, and C-reactive protein (CRP) value. No significant difference was found in women with good vs. poor outcome in terms of maternal age and obstetric histories. Emergency cervical cerclage is effective in prolonging pregnancy and improving neonatal outcome in women with cervical incompetence. It should be considered a viable option for women with a dilated cervix in mid-trimester.