Perinatal outcome and amniotic fluid index in the antepartum and intrapartum periods: A meta-analysis

Oligohydramnios at term in the high-risk population - how severe is severe?

OBJECTIVES

Term oligohydramnios is linked to pregnancy complications. We previously presented the outcome of the low-risk population (no pregnancy complications) with term oligohydramnios. This study aims to address the high-risk group (Any maternal complication during pregnancy, such as gestational diabetes, pre-gestational diabetes, chronic hypertension, preeclampsia, anemia, asthma, obesity, and multi parity.).

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study of 1,114 singleton term (≥37), oligohydramnios (AFI <50 mm) pregnancies from Shamir Medical Center between 2017 and 2021. Compering the low-risk to high-risk groups with subdivision by severity of oligohydramnios.

RESULTS

A total of 211 subjects (19 %) were high-risk cases and 903 (81 %) low-risk cases. Comparing these two groups, subjects of the high-risk group were older (31.34 ± 5.85 vs. 29.51 vs. 4.96), had earlier gestational age at delivery 39.53 ± 1.18 vs. 40, had higher mean AFI (35 ± 12.7 vs. 33 ± 14.5), were subject to more labor inductions (81 vs. 69.7 %), and CS rate (19.9 vs. 12.4 %). Logistic regression revealed a need for more cesarean sections in the high-risk group. Additionally, more labor inductions and a higher risk of negative fetal outcomes.

CONCLUSIONS

This study highlights the importance of considering pregnancy risk factors when we are approaching oligohydramnios in high-risk pregnancies.

Admission ultrasonography as a means of identifying unrecognized fetal compromise in term singleton pregnancies at the onset of labor - a feasibility study

OBJECTIVES

Apparently uncomplicated low-risk pregnancies, especially first time births, account for a significant proportion of adverse birth outcomes. Improved risk stratification with a simple bedside scan on admission in early labor could potentially reduce adverse intrapartum outcomes. The aim of this feasibility study was to assess a cohort of low-risk subjects with admission ultrasonography at the onset of labor with a view to conducting a future randomized controlled trial (RCT). The objectives were three-fold; i) to determine the logistics of performing a labor admission ultrasound scan ii) to establish whether abnormal ultrasound features can be identified and iii) whether they are associated with emergency delivery and/or poor condition of the neonate at birth.

METHODS

We performed a prospective cohort study of 295 participants with term singleton cephalic pregnancies admitted in early labor or for labor induction with non-fetal indications. The setting was a university teaching hospital in Ireland with almost 8000 births annually. A bedside ultrasound scan was performed to assess fetal biometry, amniotic fluid volume and placental maturity. Patients and their babies were followed up until hospital discharge. The outcomes of interest included image quality, time to perform a scan, oligohydramnios (Single Deepest Pool ≤ 2 cm), small for gestational age (SGA; abdominal circumference <10th centile), mature placenta (Grannum 2 or 3), pathological CTG, emergency cesarean section (CS), fetal acidosis (cord arterial pH <7.10 or base excess <-12.0), low Apgar score <7 at 5 min and neonatal unit admission.

RESULTS

Image quality was optimal in 274 of the 295 scans (93%) and 271 (92%) were completed in less than 10 min. Of this low-risk population, 67 of 294 (23%) had oligohydramnios, 11 (4%) were small for gestational age and 87 (30%) had a mature placenta (Grannum grade 2). The incidence of pathological CTG and emergency CS was higher among patients with oligohydramnios than those with a normal scan but did not reach statistical significance; Odds Ratio 3.40 (95% Confidence Intervals 0.55 to 20.92) and OR 1.43 (95% CI 0.66 to 3.08) respectively. The mean birthweight was significantly lower in those with oligohydramnios -139 g (95% CI -248 to -30) and admission scan detected SGA -357 g (95% CI -557 to -137). Adverse perinatal outcomes were uncommon with a higher incidence of fetal acidosis (pH < 7.10) in the oligohydramnios group. The incidence of neonatal unit admission >24 h was higher in the oligohydramnios group but not statistically significant; OR 3.75 (95% CI 0.61 to 22.97). Results for SGA alone were non-significant and results for oligohydramnios and SGA combined were similar to those for oligohydramnios alone.

CONCLUSIONS

Admission ultrasonography is feasible in a routine clinical setting, but evidence of benefit is weak and does not currently justify a randomized controlled trial.

Amniotic-Umbilical-to-Cerebral Ratio - A Novel Ratio Combining Doppler Parameters and Amniotic Fluid Volume to Predict Adverse Perinatal Outcome in SGA Fetuses At Term

PURPOSE

 Introduction of a novel ratio - the amniotic-umbilical-to-cerebral ratio (AUCR) - to predict adverse perinatal outcome in SGA fetuses at term and comparison of its predictive accuracy with established parameters.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

 This retrospective cohort study included 165 singleton pregnancies with SGA fetuses (birth weight < 10^th percentile) at term. Cases with planned vaginal delivery and documented pulsatility indices (PI) of the umbilical artery (UA), middle cerebral artery (MCA), and single deepest pocket (SDP) were included. CPR was calculated as the ratio between MCA PI and UA PI, UCR as the ratio between UA PI and MCA PI. AUCR was defined as follows: SDP/(UA PI/MCA PI). Adverse perinatal outcomes were defined as operative intervention (OI), OI due to fetal distress, admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), and composite adverse perinatal outcome (CAPO). Associations between Doppler parameters and these outcomes were estimated using regression analyses.

RESULTS

 OI was statistically significantly associated with UCR, SDP, and AUCR, whereas no association was observed for UA PI, MCA PI, and CPR. Fetuses requiring OI due to fetal distress revealed a significantly higher UA PI and UCR as well as a lower MCA PI, CPR, and AUCR. With regard to NICU admission and CAPO, a significantly higher UA PI and lower CPR were found. Furthermore, a significant association was shown for SDP, UCR, and AUCR. AUCR achieved the best area under the curve for all outcome parameters.

CONCLUSION

 AUCR leads to an improvement in the prediction of unfavorable outcome in SGA fetuses at term. Furthermore, results of our study show that UCR might be superior to CPR.

Neonatal outcome in vaginal breech labor at 32 + 0-36 + 0 weeks of gestation: a nationwide, population-based record linkage study

Background

In many countries, vaginal breech labor at term is an option in selected cases. However, the safety of vaginal breech labor in preterm is still unclear. Therefore our study aimed to evaluate the safety of vaginal breech labor in late preterm deliveries.

Design

A retrospective register-based study.

Setting

Maternity hospitals in Finland, 2004–2017.

Participants

The study population included 762 preterm breech deliveries at 32 + 0—36 + 6 gestational weeks according to the mode of delivery, 535 (70.2%) of them were born vaginally in breech presentation, and 227 (29.8%) were delivered by non-urgent cesarean section.

Methods

The study compared short-term neonatal adverse outcomes of singleton vaginal breech deliveries with non-urgent cesarean deliveries at 32 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks of gestation. An odd ratio with 95% confidence intervals was calculated to estimate the relative risk of adverse outcomes.

Outcome measures

Neonatal death, an arterial umbilical pH below seven, a five-minute Apgar score below four and seven, admission to neonatal intensive care unit, neonatal intubation, neonatal antibiotic therapy, neonatal birth trauma, respiratory distress syndrome, neonatal convulsions, cerebral ischemia, hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy, congenital hypotonia, and a composite of severe adverse outcomes.

Results

A five-minute Apgar scores below seven were increased in vaginal breech labor at 32 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks of gestation compared to non-urgent cesarean sections (aOR 2.48, 95% CI 1.08–5.59). Neonatal antibiotic therapy, the admission to neonatal intensive care unit, and neonatal respiratory distress syndrome were decreased after vaginal breech labor compared to the outcomes of non-urgent cesarean section (neonatal antibiotic therapy aOR 0.60, 95% CI 0.40–0.89; neonatal NICU admission aOR 0.47, 95% CI 0.33–0.68; respiratory distress syndrome aOR 0.30, 95% CI 0.19–0.48).

Conclusion

Vaginal breech labor at 32 + 0—36 + 6 gestational weeks does not increase severe neonatal short-term morbidity or mortality compared to cesarean section.

Semiquantitative Assessment of Amniotic Fluid Among Individuals With and Without Diabetes Mellitus

OBJECTIVE

To compare the rate and severity of abnormal amniotic fluid volumes (oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios), as well as the distribution of amniotic fluid levels, in pregnancies with and without diabetes.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of singleton nonanomalous pregnancies receiving an ultrasound examination (USE) in the third trimester. Pregnancies were categorized into those with and without diabetes and subcategorized by diabetes type. The primary outcomes were oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios. Polyhydramnios was also examined by severity. The association between maternal diabetes status and oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios was assessed using logistic regression. In addition, we computed gestational age-specific amniotic fluid index (AFI) and deepest vertical pocket (DVP) centiles for pregnancies with and without diabetes.

RESULTS

There were 60,226 USEs from 26,651 pregnancies that met inclusion criteria. There were 3992 (15.0%) pregnancies with diabetes and 22,659 (85.0%) without diabetes. Using AFI, the rate of polyhydramnios was 10.5 versus 3.8% (odds ratio [OR] 2.95; 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.62-3.32) for pregnancies with versus without diabetes, respectively; using DVP, the rate of polyhydramnios was 13.9 versus 5.4% (OR 2.84; 95% CI 2.56-3.15). Rates of oligohydramnios were also increased in pregnancies with diabetes (3.3 versus 2.6%; OR 1.26; 95% CI 1.04-1.52). The AFI and DVP were significantly higher in the cohort with diabetes between 28 and 36 weeks.

CONCLUSION

Within our study population, pregnancies with diabetes had increased rates of oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios as well as increased gestational age-specific amniotic fluid volumes between 28 and 36 weeks. A higher prevalence of polyhydramnios was observed using DVP as compared to AFI; nevertheless, associations were similar using either method.

Correlation of perinatal outcomes with amniotic fluid assessment techniques in high-risk pregnancies in a Tertiary Hospital in Southern Nigeria

BACKGROUND

Oligohydramnios is a predictor of fetal compromise and a useful tool in pregnancy management. It has been assessed using various techniques, including two-diameter pocket (2-DP) and amniotic fluid index (AFI).

OBJECTIVES

To determine which of these two techniques best diagnose oligohydramnios and predicts adverse perinatal outcomes.

METHODS

This was a comparative cross-sectional study conducted at Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara in southern region of Nigeria over eight months period. One hundred high-risk pregnant women were recruited and ultrasound determination of amniotic fluid was performed using AFI and 2-DP. The women were followed up till delivery to determine adverse perinatal outcomes.

RESULTS

The indices of validity of AFI and the 2-DP were calculated and compared. The 2-DP had a higher sensitivity than AFI for adverse outcomes in high-risk pregnancies complicated by oligohydramnios.

CONCLUSION

The 2-DP technique should preferably be used for the assessment of oligohydramnios in high-risk pregnancies.

Clinical monitoring of late fetal growth restriction

Late fetal growth restriction (FGR) poses its own challenges in respect of diagnosis, surveillance and delivery timing. Perinatal morbidity is relatively rare, and mortality extremely unusual, but given that late FGR is much more frequent than early FGR, the burden on neonatal services must not be underestimated. Doppler findings are more subtle than in early FGR, and growth rate rather than absolute fetal size may be important in defining the condition. Though umbilical artery Doppler changes form the basis for triggering delivery: reversed end diastolic flow at 32 weeks, absent at 34 weeks and raised PI at 36 weeks, other modalities of monitoring - for example cardiotocography and cerebral Doppler - are important in surveillance and timing follow up of the condition.

FIGO (international Federation of Gynecology and obstetrics) initiative on fetal growth: best practice advice for screening, diagnosis, and management of fetal growth restriction

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is defined as the failure of the fetus to meet its growth potential due to a pathological factor, most commonly placental dysfunction. Worldwide, FGR is a leading cause of stillbirth, neonatal mortality, and short- and long-term morbidity. Ongoing advances in clinical care, especially in definitions, diagnosis, and management of FGR, require efforts to effectively translate these changes to the wide range of obstetric care providers. This article highlights agreements based on current research in the diagnosis and management of FGR, and the areas that need more research to provide further clarification of recommendations. The purpose of this article is to provide a comprehensive summary of available evidence along with practical recommendations concerning the care of pregnancies at risk of or complicated by FGR, with the overall goal to decrease the risk of stillbirth and neonatal mortality and morbidity associated with this condition. To achieve these goals, FIGO (the International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) brought together international experts to review and summarize current knowledge of FGR. This summary is directed at multiple stakeholders, including healthcare providers, healthcare delivery organizations and providers, FIGO member societies, and professional organizations. Recognizing the variation in the resources and expertise available for the management of FGR in different countries or regions, this article attempts to take into consideration the unique aspects of antenatal care in low-resource settings (labelled “LRS” in the recommendations). This was achieved by collaboration with authors and FIGO member societies from low-resource settings such as India, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America.

Oligohydramnios: how severe is severe?

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether the severity of isolated oligohydramnios at term is associated with increased rates of adverse perinatal outcome.

STUDY DESIGN

A retrospective study conducted in a single medical center from 2017 to 2019. All low-risk pregnancies with incidental isolated oligohydramnios at term were included. The degree of oligohydramnios was arbitrarily classified into mild (AFI = 41-50 mm), moderate (AFI = 21-40 mm) and severe (AFI = 0-20 mm).

RESULT

A total of 610 women were included: 202 with a mild (33.1%), 287 moderate (47.0%), and 121 severe oligohydramnios (19.8%). Non-reassuring monitor requiring immediate delivery and worse composite neonatal outcome were more common among severe than mild or moderate oligohydramnios (14.0% and 6.4%, 7.3% respectively; p = .039 and 19.8%, 10.9% and 11.8%, respectively; p = .048).

CONCLUSION

Low-risk pregnancies with isolated severe oligohydramnios at term have a higher tendency toward non-reassuring fetal monitoring requiring prompt delivery and adverse neonatal outcomes, this calls for close intrapartum surveillance.

Risk factors for adverse outcomes in vaginal preterm breech labor

PURPOSE

To assess the risk factors for adverse outcomes in attempted vaginal preterm breech deliveries.

METHODS

A retrospective case-control study, including 2312 preterm breech deliveries (24 + 0 to 36 + 6 gestational weeks) from 2004 to 2018 in Finland. The preterm breech fetuses with adverse outcomes born vaginally or by emergency cesarean section were compared with the fetuses without adverse outcomes with the same gestational age. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to calculate the risk factors for adverse outcomes (umbilical arterial pH below 7, 5-min Apgar score below 4, intrapartum stillbirth and neonatal death < 28 days of age).

RESULTS

Adverse outcome in vaginal preterm breech delivery was associated with maternal obesity (aOR 32.19, CI 2.97-348.65), smoking (aOR 2.29, CI 1.12-4.72), congenital anomalies (aOR 4.50, 1.56-12.96), preterm premature rupture of membranes (aOR 1.87, CI 1.00-3.49), oligohydramnios (28-32 weeks of gestation: aOR 6.50, CI 2.00-21.11, 33-36 weeks of gestation: aOR 19.06, CI 7.15-50.85), epidural anesthesia in vaginal birth (aOR 2.44, CI 1.19-5.01), and fetal growth below the second standard deviation (28-32 weeks of gestation: aOR 5.89, CI 1.00-34.74, 33-36 weeks of gestation: aOR 12.27, CI 2.81-53.66).

CONCLUSION

The study shows that for each subcategory of preterm birth, there are different risk factors for adverse neonatal outcomes in planned vaginal breech delivery. Due to the extraordinary increased risk of adverse outcomes, we would recommend a planned cesarean section in very preterm breech presentation (28 + 0 to 32 + 6 weeks) with severe maternal obesity, oligohydramnios, or fetal growth restriction and in moderate to late preterm breech presentation (33 + 0 to 36 + 6 weeks) with oligohydramnios or fetal growth restriction.

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°^/7-39^6/7.

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.

Prenatal exposure to isolated amniotic fluid disorders and the risk for long-term cardiovascular morbidity in the offspring

Amniotic fluid (AF) abnormalities are often associated with short-term adverse pregnancy outcomes, including cardiovascular-related. We sought to assess whether in utero exposure to AF abnormalities increases the risk for long-term cardiovascular morbidity of the offspring. We examined the incidence of cardiovascular disorders in singletons exposed and non-exposed to isolated oligohydramnios or polyhydramnios. Cardiovascular morbidity was assessed up to the age of 18 years according to a predefined set of ICD-9 codes. A Kaplan-Meier survival curves were used to compare cumulative morbidity incidence. A Cox proportional hazards model was constructed to control for confounders. During the study period, 195,943 newborns met the inclusion criteria, of which 2.0% (n = 4063) were in pregnancies diagnosed with isolated oligohydramnios and 2.9% (n = 5684) in pregnancies with isolated polyhydramnios. Children exposed to isolated AF disorders had significantly higher rates of long-term cardiovascular morbidity (p=.042). Children exposed to isolated oligohydramnios had higher cumulative incidence of cardiovascular morbidity (log-rank test p=.026) compared to unexposed children, opposing to what was demonstrate when comparing polyhydramnios vs. normal AFV (log-rank test p=.749). In the Cox regression model, while controlling for confounders, isolated oligohydramnios were found to be independently associated with long-term cardiovascular morbidity of the offspring.

Management of isolated oligohydramnios in Korea: a questionnaire-based study of clinical practice patterns among the members of the Korean Society of Maternal Fetal Medicine

Objective

The aim of this survey was to investigate the recommendations and clinical practice patterns of the Korean Society of Maternal and Fetal Medicine (KSMFM) members, regarding management of isolated oligohydramnios (IO).

Methods

From December 2018 to February 2019, questionnaires were e-mailed to the KSMFM members at 257 institutes that are listed by the Korean Statistical Information Services (KOSIS) as suitable labor premises. Responses to the seven questions on the management of IO, from diagnosis to treatment, were evaluated.

Results

A total of 72 KSMFM members responded to this survey. Nearly all participants (90.1%) used the amniotic fluid index (AFI) as the primary method for estimating amniotic fluid volume. The majority of the participants (73.6%) believed that IO was a risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes, including abnormal fetal heart rate (73.6%), need for cesarean delivery (58.3%), intrauterine fetal demise (52.8%), and meconium aspiration syndrome (50%). Almost 70% of the participants believed that induction of labor might decrease perinatal morbidities, and that late-preterm to early-term period (36–38 gestational weeks) was a suitable timeframe for delivery, if the fetus was sufficiently grown and antenatal testing revealed reassuring results. Less than half of the participants (47.2%) believed that maternal oral or intravenous hydration was a useful intervention for IO management.

Conclusions

KSMFM members preferred labor induction at late-preterm to early-term, to decrease perinatal morbidity in cases of IO, although it was still uncertain whether labor induction improved the outcomes. Further prospective studies are needed regarding IO management.

Isolated oligohydramnios and long-term neurological morbidity of the offspring

This study aimed to assess the association between maternal-isolated oligohydramnios (IO) and offspring long-term neurological complications. A population-based retrospective cohort study was conducted, including all births at a single tertiary medical center in Israel between the years 1991 and 2014. Multiple pregnancies and potential pregnancy complications associated with oligohydramnios were excluded. The computerized obstetrical database was linked with the computerized dataset of all pediatric hospitalizations of the same medical center. Evaluation of cumulative neurological-associated hospitalizations rate over time was compared using a Kaplan-Meier survival curve. The Weibull survival parametric model was conducted to assess the neurological-associated hospitalization risk in the presence of IO, while accounting for potential confounders. A total of 190,259 pregnancies were included in the study, of which 4063 (2.13%) pregnancies were complicated with IO. Total neurological-related hospitalizations were significantly more common in the IO group (3.7% in the IO group and 3.0% in the comparison group, p = 0.005). Pervasive developmental disorder, movement disorders, developmental disorders, and degenerative and demyelization disorders were all specific neurological diagnoses significantly more common in the exposed group. The survival curve demonstrated a significantly higher cumulative hospitalization rate in the exposed group (log-rank p = 0.001). Using a multivariate model adjusting for gestational age, maternal age, and labor induction, an independent association between IO and long-term neurological morbidity of the offspring was observed (adjusted hazard ratio 1.203; 95% CI 1.02-1.42). In summary, a significant association was found between pregnancies complicated by IO and long-term neurological morbidity of the offspring.

Diagnostic utility of maximum vertical pocket versus amniotic fluid index in assessing amniotic fluid volume for the prediction of adverse maternal and fetal outcomes: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Objective: To compare the utility of maximum vertical pocket versus amniotic fluid index for predicting adverse perinatal outcomes.Methods: Systematic review of randomized clinical studies comparing these two ultrasound techniques and random-effects meta-analysis to quantify a range of perinatal outcomes.Result: Six studies with 4278 women were eligible. Use of the maximum vertical pocket reduced the rate of diagnosis of oligohydramnios (pooled relative risk 0.38; 95% confidence interval 0.27, 0.53). Use of the maximum vertical pocket was associated with significantly lower rates of non-reassuring fetal heart tracing, cesarean delivery for fetal distress, and induction of labor for oligohydramnios. There were no differences in the rates of cesarean delivery, presence of meconium, umbilical artery pH <7.1, 5-minute Apgar score <7, or admission to the neonatal intensive care unit.Conclusion: The use of maximum vertical pocket is associated with a lower rate of pregnancy intervention without any worsening of adverse pregnancy outcomes.

Updating the amniotic fluid index nomograms according to perinatal outcome

Background: The two most commonly used nomograms for amniotic fluid index (AFI) were developed by Moore and Cayle and Magann et al. However, there are several inconsistencies between the two methods.Objective: The aim of the study was to determine whether these differences carry clinical significance.Methods: A retrospective cohort of women with singleton pregnancies evaluated for AFI during pregnancy at a tertiary medical center in 2007-2014 were divided into five groups: group A, definite oligohydramnios-AFI below the fifth percentile according to the nomograms of both Moore and Cayle and Magann et al.; group B, intermediate oligohydramnios-AFI below the fifth percentile according to only one nomogram (Moore and Cayle); group C, euhydramnios-normal AFI according to both nomograms; group D, intermediate polyhydramnios-AFI above the 95th percentile according to one nomogram (Magann et al.); group E, definite polyhydramnios-above the 95th percentile according to both nomograms. The association of group by maternal and perinatal outcomes was analyzed.Results: A total of 6987 women were included: group A, 996 (14%); group B, 1344 (19%); group C, 2561 (37%); group D, 1051 (15%); group E, 1034 (15%). Group B (intermediate oligohydramnios) was characterized by significantly lower rates of adverse perinatal outcomes than group A (definite oligohydramnios): small for gestational age neonate (12.3 versus 15.2%, p = .05), neonatal intensive care unit admission (11.1 versus 21.5%; p < .001), composite respiratory outcome (4.8 versus 9.8%; p < .001), and neonatal sepsis (6.4 versus 10.8%; p < .001). No such differences were found between groups B and C. Group D (intermediate polyhydramnios) differed from group E (definite polyhydramnios) by lower rates of 5 minutes Apgar score <7 (1.3 versus 3.2%; p = .003), neonatal intensive care unit admission (10.9 versus 14.4%; p = .02), and major congenital anomalies (1.7 versus 5.6%; p = .02). There was no difference in these parameters between groups D and C.Conclusion: This study suggests that intermediate oligohydramnios and intermediate polyhydramnios are not associated with adverse perinatal outcomes. Outcome in these pregnancies is similar to pregnancies with euhydramnios. Commonly used AFI nomograms should be updated.

Is pregnancy associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) a marker for adverse perinatal outcomes in preterm isolated oligohydramnios cases?

OBJECTIVE

Isolated oligohydramnios is defined as an amniotic fluid index below five centimeter with no other coexisting condition. There are still controversies about the management and pregnancy outcomes. A marker predicting these is crucial. Low pregnancy associated plasma protein-A levels were reported to be related with adverse pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to determine the role of first trimester pregnancy associated plasma protein-A for poor outcomes in preterm isolated oligohydramnios cases.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Fifty-one patients with singleton pregnancies diagnosed as isolated oligohydramnios at 28/0-36/6 weeks of gestation and 110 gestational age matched healthy controls between January and December 2015 were included. Maternal age, gestational age at delivery, mode of delivery, indication for cesarean section, Apgar scores at first and fifth minutes, birth weight, neonatal intensive care unit admission and mortality were recorded. Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A levels were compared between groups and its role in adverse perinatal outcomes was evaluated.

RESULTS

Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A levels and pregnancy outcomes were similar in two groups (p > 0.050) except birth weight, gestational age at delivery and presence of fetal distress. Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A levels did not differ in terms of delivery mode, presence of fetal distress, first and fifth minutes Apgar scores and neonatal intensive care unit admission (p = 0.323,0.650,0.990,0.112,0.853). Also, it was not determined as a risk factor for cesarean section, presence of fetal distress, low Apgar scores and neonatal intensive care unit admission.

CONCLUSION

Pregnancy associated plasma protein-A, a well-known prognostic factor for some of high risk pregnancy conditions, may not be used as a marker in preterm isolated oligohydramnios cases.

Diagnosis and surveillance of late-onset fetal growth restriction

By consensus, late fetal growth restriction is that diagnosed >32 weeks. This condition is mildly associated with a higher risk of perinatal hypoxic events and suboptimal neurodevelopment. Histologically, it is characterized by the presence of uteroplacental vascular lesions (especially infarcts), although the incidence of such lesions is lower than in preterm fetal growth restriction. Screening procedures for fetal growth restriction need to identify small babies and then differentiate between those who are healthy and those who are pathologically small. First- or second-trimester screening strategies provide detection rates for late smallness for gestational age <50% for 10% of false positives. Compared to clinically indicated ultrasonography in the third trimester, universal screening triples the detection rate of late smallness for gestational age. As opposed to early third-trimester ultrasound, scanning late in pregnancy (around 37 weeks) increases the detection rate for birthweight <3rd centile. Contrary to early fetal growth restriction, umbilical artery Doppler velocimetry alone does not provide good differentiation between late smallness for gestational age and fetal growth restriction. A combination of biometric parameters (with severe smallness usually defined as estimated fetal weight or abdominal circumference <3rd centile) with Doppler criteria of placental insufficiency (either in the maternal [uterine Doppler] or fetal [cerebroplacental ratio] compartments) offers a classification tool that correlates with the risk for adverse perinatal outcome. There is no evidence that induction of late fetal growth restriction at term improves perinatal outcomes nor is it a cost-effective strategy, and it may increase neonatal admission when performed <38 weeks.

Induction of labour: clinical predictive factors for success and failure

Induction of labour (IOL) is a widely-used practice in obstetrics. Our aim was to evaluate predictors of vaginal delivery in postdate pregnancies induced with prostaglandins. We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional study with analytic component. A total of 145 women, admitted for IOL after the 41st week of gestation, were induced with a vaginal pessary releasing prostaglandins. Type of delivery, whether vaginal or caesarean, was the outcome. Several maternal and foetal variables were investigated. The Kaplan-Maier curves, monovariate and a multivariate logistic regression were carried out. In our population, 80.7% of women had vaginal delivery after the induction. Multiparity and a high Bishop score at the beginning of the IOL were protective factors for a vaginal delivery (respectively OR 0.16, p = .028 and OR 0.62, p = .034) while age >35 years, and the foetal birth weight >3500 g at the birth, resulted in being risk factors for caesarean section (respectively OR 4.20, p = .006 and OR 3.63, p = .013). IMPACT STATEMENT What is already known on this subject: Induction of labour (IOL) is a widely used practice in obstetrics. Scientific literature shows several predictors of successful induction, although there is no unanimity except for 'multiparity' and 'favourable Bishop score' which are associated with positive outcome of the induction. The main difficulty in finding other predictive factors is the heterogeneity of this field (different local protocols in each hospital, type of induction, populations and outcomes chosen in each study). In addition to that, populations are not always comparable due to the different gestation. For this reason, we decided to select a specific population of women, such as low risk postterm pregnancies induced with prostaglandins, in order to detect possible predictive factors for the success of the IOL for women with uncomplicated pregnancies. What the results of this study add: Our study agrees with existing literature that 'multiparity' and 'Bishop score' are linked with the success of IOL and adds that 'maternal age' and 'foetal birth weight' are significant risk factors for the population of uncomplicated post term pregnancies induced with prostaglandins. What the implications are of these findings for clinical practice and/or further research: Our results agreed with the existing literature regarding parity and Bishop score but not for maternal age and birth weight. This adds new precious data to the literature which could be used for systematic reviews and for implementing IOL guidelines and protocols, nationally and internationally. Our findings could be also used for guiding future research in this field. It will be interesting to investigate the existence of not just specific factors but also any combination of variables which could predict the success of the procedure. At the moment these information cannot be used in terms of decision making for healthcare professionals as no variable is 100% predictive but once further research will be added, we may be able to know when is best time to start the IOL, how to facilitate the success of the procedure and how to best support the woman throughout the whole experience.

Oligohydramnios in complicated and uncomplicated pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate adverse pregnancy outcomes in singleton pregnancies diagnosed with oligohydramnios through a systematic review and meta-analysis of controlled trials.

METHODS

We searched electronic databases via OVID, EBSCO, Web of Science, Google Scholar and others from 1980 to 2015. Prospective and retrospective studies with a control group were included. Two authors independently reviewed the abstracts from the literature search. Inclusion criteria were: studies in English, singleton pregnancy, normal fetal anatomy, intact membranes and oligohydramnios determined by the amniotic fluid index (AFI) technique. We stratified the meta-analysis into two groups according to risk: high risk including studies of oligohydramnios with comorbid conditions (e.g. hypertension) and low risk including studies of isolated oligohydramnios.

RESULTS

Fifteen trials met the inclusion criteria. Nine were high-risk and six were low-risk studies, including 8067 and 27 526 women, respectively. Compared with women with normal AFI, those with isolated oligohydramnios had significantly higher rates of an infant with meconium aspiration syndrome (relative risk (RR), 2.83; 95% CI, 1.38-5.77), Cesarean delivery for fetal distress (RR, 2.16; 95% CI, 1.64-2.85) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) (RR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.20-2.42). Patients with oligohydramnios and comorbidities were more likely to have an infant with low birth weight (RR, 2.35; 95% CI, 1.27-4.34). However, rates of 5-min Apgar score < 7 (RR, 1.85; 95% CI, 0.69-4.96), NICU admission (RR, 2.09; 95% CI, 0.80-5.45), meconium-stained amniotic fluid (RR, 1.32; 95% CI, 0.62-2.81) and Cesarean delivery for fetal distress (RR, 1.65; 95% CI, 0.81-3.36) were similar to those for women with normal AFI. Stillbirth rates were too low to analyze in the meta-analysis.

CONCLUSIONS

This review helps to delineate which adverse outcomes are increased with oligohydramnios in low-risk pregnancy (NICU admission, Cesarean delivery for fetal distress and meconium aspiration syndrome), but does not provide enough data to determine the optimal timing of delivery in such cases. Oligohydramnios in complicated pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of delivery of an infant with low birth weight, but this may be confounded by the comorbid condition. Therefore, in high-risk pregnancy, management should be dictated by the comorbid condition and not the presence of oligohydramnios. Copyright © 2016 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.

Risk factors associated with adverse perinatal outcome in planned vaginal breech labors at term: a retrospective population-based case-control study

BACKGROUND

Vaginal breech delivery is associated with adverse perinatal outcome. The aim of this study was to identify factors associated with adverse perinatal outcome in term breech pregnancies, and to provide clinicians an aid in selecting women for a trial of vaginal labor with the fetus in breech position.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective, nationwide, Finnish population-based case-control study. All planned singleton vaginal deliveries at term with the fetus in breech position between the years 2005 and 2014 were analyzed. The study's end point was a composite set of adverse perinatal outcomes. All infants with an adverse outcome were compared to the infants with normal outcomes. A multivariate logistic regression model was used to analyze the data.

RESULTS

An adverse perinatal outcome was recorded for 73 (1.5%) infants. According to the study results fetal growth restriction (adjusted odds ratio, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.30-6.67), oligohydramnios (adjusted odds ratio, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.15-7.18), a history of cesarean section (adjusted odds ratio, 2.94; 95% CI, 1.28-6.77, gestational diabetes (adjusted odds ratio, 2.89; 95% CI, 1.54-5.40), epidural anesthesia (adjusted odds ratio, 2.20; 95% CI, 1.29-3.75) and nulliparity (adjusted odds ratio, 1.84; 95% CI, 1.10-3.08) were associated with adverse perinatal outcome.

CONCLUSIONS

Adverse perinatal outcome in planned vaginal breech labor at term is associated with fetal growth restriction, oligohydramnios, previous cesarean delivery, gestational diabetes, nulliparity and epidural anesthesia.

An integrated approach to fetal growth restriction

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is among the most common complications of pregnancy. FGR is associated with placental insufficiency and poor perinatal outcomes. Clinical management is challenging because of variability in clinical presentation. Fetal smallness (estimated fetal weight <10th centile for gestational age) remains the best clinical surrogate for FGR. However, it is commonly accepted that not all forms of fetal smallness represent true FGR. In a significant subset of small fetuses, there is no evidence of placental involvement, perinatal outcomes are nearly normal, and they are clinically referred to as "only" small for gestational age (SGA). Doppler may improve the clinical management of FGR; however, the need to use several parameters sometimes results in a number of combinations that may render interpretation challenging when translating into clinical decisions. We propose that the management of FGR can be simplified using a sequential approach based on three steps: (1) identification of the "small fetus," (2) differentiation between FGR and SGA, and (3) timing of delivery according to a protocol based on stages of fetal deterioration.

Perinatal outcomes with isolated oligohydramnios at term pregnancy

AIMS

To compare the outcomes of term gestations with oligohydramnios in the absence of other underlying disorders and term gestations with normal amniotic fluid.

METHODS

A retrospective analysis of obstetric outcomes in 27,708 term pregnancies. We compared three groups: labor induced because of oligohydramnios, spontaneous onset of labor with normal amniotic fluid, and labor induced because of late term pregnancy with normal amniotic fluid. We excluded pregnancies with maternal or fetal diseases or disorders potentially related with amniotic fluid alterations. The main outcome measures were mode of delivery, neonatal birth weight, umbilical artery blood pH, Apgar scores and neonatal discharge status.

RESULTS

Compared to spontaneous labor, induction of labor because of oligohydramnios was associated with a higher risk of cesarean delivery and small size of the fetus for gestational age (SGA). Compared to induction because of late term pregnancy there were no significant differences in neonatal, although neonates had a higher risk of being SGA.

CONCLUSION

The only perinatal outcome for which the risk was higher in term pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios was SGA. The systematic induction of labor in these pregnancies should be questioned.

Antenatal fetal surveillance "Assessment of the AFV"

The evaluation of amniotic fluid volume (AFV) is an established part of the antenatal surveillance of pregnancies at risk for an adverse pregnancy outcome. The two most commonly used ultrasound techniques to estimate AFV are the amniotic fluid index (AFI) and the single deepest pocket (SDP). Four studies have defined normal AFVs, and although their normal volumes have similarities, there are also differences primarily due to the statistical methodology used in each study. Dye-determined AFV correlates with ultrasound estimates for normal fluid volumes but correlates poorly for oligohydramnios and polyhydramnios. The addition of color Doppler in estimating AFV leads to the overdiagnosis of oligohydramnios. Neither the AFI nor the SDP is superior in identifying oligohydramnios, but the SDP is a better measurement choice as the use of AFI increases the diagnosis rate of oligohydramnios and labor inductions without an improvement in pregnancy outcomes.

Early onset fetal growth restriction

Fetal growth restriction remains a challenging entity with significant variations in clinical practice around the world. The different etiopathogenesis of early and late fetal growth restriction with their distinct progression of fetal severity and outcomes, compounded by doctors and patient anxiety adds to the quandary involving its management. This review summarises the literature around diagnosing and monitoring early onset fetal growth restriction (early onset FGR) with special emphasis on optimal timing of delivery as guided by recent research advances.

Reference values for the single deepest vertical pocket to assess the amniotic fluid volume in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy

AIM

To establish reference values for the single deepest vertical pocket to assess the amniotic fluid volume in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cross-sectional study with 3554 consecutive singleton low-risk pregnant women between 14 and 41 weeks of gestation. To perform the largest deepest vertical pocket measurement, the transabdominal convex probe was positioned vertical to the uterine contour of abdomen and parallel to the maternal sagittal plane. In order to obtain reference values for the largest deepest vertical pocket measurement and gestational age (GA), we have used a polynomial regression model.

RESULTS

The mean±standard deviation for the largest deepest vertical pocket measurement (cm) ranged from 3.1±1.1 (1.5-4.9) at 14-14+6 to 3.7±1.6 (0-6.7) at 41-41+6 weeks, respectively. A best-fit was a second-degree polynomial regression: largest deepest pocket=-1.478+0.197*GA-0.0030*GA2 (R2=0.014).

CONCLUSION

Reference values for the single deepest vertical pocket to assess the amniotic fluid volume in the second and third trimesters of pregnancy in a large heterogeneous population were established.

Isolated Oligohydramnios at Term as an Indication for Labor Induction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

To investigate whether isolated oligohydramnios at term is associated with increased rates of perinatal morbidity and mortality and whether induction of labor in term pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios is superior to conservative management in reducing perinatal morbidity and mortality.

STUDY DESIGN

We searched databases from inception to May 2015. We included studies that evaluated isolated oligohydramnios at term and perinatal outcome. Each outcome was analyzed separately, performing a comparative analysis between the study and control groups.

RESULTS

Twelve studies were included with 35,999 women: 2,414 (6.7%) with isolated oligohydramnios and 33,585 (93.29%) with normal amniotic fluid index. Patients with isolated oligohydramnios had significantly higher rates of labor induction [odds ratio (OR) 7.56, confidence interval (CI) 4.58-12.48] and Cesarean sections (OR 2.07, CI 1.77-2.41). There were higher rates of an Apgar score <7 at 1 and 5 min (OR 1.53, CI 1.03-2.26, and OR 2.01, CI 1.3-3.09, respectively) and admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (OR 1.47, CI 1.17-1.84). There were no significant differences in cord pH <7.1 and meconium-stained amniotic fluid. In the single randomized trial comparing induction of labor with expectant management, no differences were found in any significant maternal or neonatal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

Isolated oligohydramnios at term is associated with significantly higher rates of labor induction, Cesarean sections, and short-term neonatal morbidity.

Comparison of the Effect of Maternal Rest in Alternative Lateral Decubitus Positions on the Amniotic Fluid Index: A Randomized Controlled Trial

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the effect of maternal rest in the left and right lateral decubitus positions and resting alone on the amniotic fluid index (AFI).

METHOD

Sixty-nine women with singleton pregnancies and an AFI of 6 to 24 cm at 36 to 40 weeks' gestation were included in this randomized controlled trial. The women were randomized into 2 intervention groups. After initial AFI measurements, group 1 (n = 35) rested in the left lateral position for 15 minutes and then rested in the right lateral position for another 15 minutes. Group 2 (n = 34) rested in the right lateral position for 15 minutes and then rested in the left lateral position for another 15 minutes. To compare differences between groups, AFIs were measured at the end of each 15-minute period while the participants were kept on their backs in a semirecumbent position.

RESULTS

The demographic data, gestational ages, and initial AFI values did not differ between groups (P > .05). In group 1, the initial mean AFI ± SD of 12.25 ± 3.81 increased significantly during the first 15 minutes to 15.17 ± 4.27 and decreased significantly during the second 15 minutes to 13.30 ± 4.29 (P< .001); however, the 30-minute AFI was still significantly higher than the initial value (P = .008). In group 2, the initial AFI change during the first 15 minutes, from 12.83 ± 3.99 to 12.72 ± 3.87, was not significant (P> .05); however, it increased significantly to 15.63 ± 4.14 during the second 15 minutes (P< .001). The 30-minute AFI was still significantly higher than the initial value (P< .001).

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal rest in the right lateral decubitus position does not seem to either increase or decrease the AFI, and resting alone does not increase the AFI in the short term.

A comparison between amniotic fluid index and the single deepest vertical pocket technique in predicting adverse outcome in prolonged pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

to compare perinatal outcome in induced postterm pregnancies with normal amniotic volume and in patients with prolonged pregnancy undergone induction for oligohydramnios, evaluated by two different ultrasonographic methods.

METHODS

amniotic fluid volume was measured, using Single Deepest Vertical Pocket (SDVP) and Amniotic Fluid Index (AFI), in 961 singleton uncomplicated prolonged pregnancies. In 109 of these patients, hospitalization was planned for induction of labor, during or after 42 weeks of gestation, for oligohydramnios, postterm pregnancy and other indications in 47, 51 and 11 cases, respectively. Perinatal outcome included: rate of caesarean section, fetal distress, non reassuring fetal heart tracing, presence of meconium, umbilical artery pH < 7.1, Apgar score at 5 minutes < 7, admission to neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

RESULTS

oligohydramnios was diagnosed in 4.89% of cases, when at least one of the two methods was used. A reduced AFI and SDVP value identified 4.47% and 3.75% of cases, respectively, even if without statistical difference. No statistical differences were reported in perinatal outcomes in postterm versus prolonged pregnancies with oligohydramnios, also in relation to the two different ultrasonographic methods.

CONCLUSIONS

oligohydramnios is more frequently diagnosed using AFI than SDVP, consequently determining a higher rate of induction of labor. Moreover, perinatal outcome in prolonged induced pregnancies is not affected by oligohydramnios.

An Update on Maternal Hydration Strategies for Amniotic Fluid Improvement in Isolated Oligohydramnios and Normohydramnios: Evidence from a Systematic Review of Literature and Meta-Analysis

OBJECTIVE

Several trials aimed at evaluating the efficacy of maternal hydration (MH) in increasing amniotic-fluid-volume (AFV) in pregnancies with isolated oligohydramnios or normohydramnos have been conducted. Unfortunately, no evidences support this intervention in routine-clinical-practice. The aim of this systematic-literature-review and meta-analysis was to collect all data regarding proposed strategies and their efficacy in relation to each clinical condition for which MH-therapy was performed with the aim of increasing amniotic-fluid (AF) and improving perinatal outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in electronic-database MEDLINE, EMBASE, ScienceDirect and the Cochrane-Library in the time interval between 1991 and 2014. Following the identification of eligible trials, we estimated the methodological quality of each study (using QADAS-2) and clustered patients according to the following outcome measures: route of administration (oral versus intravenous versus combined), total daily dose of fluids administered (<2000 versus >2000), duration of hydration therapy: (1 day, >1 day but <1 week, >1 week), type of fluid administered (isotonic versus hypotonic versus combination).

RESULTS

In isolated-oligohydramnios (IO), maternal oral hydration is more effective than intravenous hydration and hypotonic solutions superior to isotonic solutions. The improvement in AFV appears to be time-dependent rather than daily-dose dependent. Regarding normohydramnios pregnancies, all strategies seem equivalent though the administration of hypotonic-fluid appears to have a slightly greater effect than isotonic-fluid. Regarding perinatal outcomes, data is fragmentary and heterogeneous and does not allow us to define the real clinical utility of MH.

CONCLUSIONS

Available data suggests that MH may be a safe, well-tolerated and useful strategy to improve AFV especially in cases of IO. In view of the numerous obstetric situations in which a reduced AFV may pose a threat, particularly to the fetus, the possibility of increasing AFV with a simple and inexpensive practice like MH-therapy may have potential clinical applications. Considering the various strategies of maternal hydration implemented in the treatment of IO, better results were observed when treatment was based on a combination of intravenous (for a period of 1 day) and oral (for a period of at least 14 days) hypotonic fluids (≥2000ml).

Timing of induction of labor

Determining the optimal timing for induction of labor is critical in minimizing the risks to maternal and fetal health. While data are available to guide us in some clinical situations, such as hypertension and diabetes, many gaps in knowledge still exist in others, including cholestasis of pregnancy, fetal anomalies, and placental abruption. This review of the currently available literature assesses the risks and benefits of preterm and early term induction in a wide variety of maternal and fetal conditions.

Placental lesions associated with oligohydramnios in fetal growth restricted (FGR) pregnancies

INTRODUCTION

Aim of the study was to investigate the association between placental pathology and oligohydramnios in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR).

METHODS

Placentas from 221 consecutive FGR pregnancies and 63 healthy controls were studied. Pathological lesions were described according to consensus nomenclature and standardized criteria; both elementary lesions and constellations of lesions (patterns) were considered. Statistics included analysis of linear trends and multinomial logistic regression.

RESULTS

Amniotic fluid index (AFI) was normal in 56 (25.3%) FGR pregnancies, whereas mild, moderate and severe oligohydramnios were diagnosed in 32 (14.5%), 44 (19.9%) and 89 (40.3%) subjects, respectively. In FGR pregnancies, after adjustment for potential confounders, membrane meconium staining (chi-square = 28.6, p < 0.001), chronic villous hypoxia pattern (chi-square = 18.8, p < 0.001) and fetal thrombotic vasculopathy pattern (chi-square = 9.2, p = 0.002) were positively and linearly correlated to AFI decrease. Odds ratios of meconium and chronic villous hypoxia were 9.2 (95% CI = 2.6-32.9) and 4.2 (95% CI = 1.3-13.6) in FGR pregnancies with normal AFI and 25.2 (95% CI = 6.9-91.8) and 9.7 (95% CI = 3-31.5) in those with severe oligohydramnios (p = 0.005 and p = 0.023 compared to normal AFI, respectively).

DISCUSSION

In FGR pregnancies, reduction of amniotic fluid volume is directly correlated to histological features of placental under-perfusion, meconium staining of membranes and fetal vascular damage. These findings support the clinical notion that in FGR pregnancies oligohydramnios is a risk factor of fetal hypoxia and possibly of increased adverse neonatal outcomes.

Intra-vaginal prostaglandin E2 versus double-balloon catheter for labor induction in term oligohydramnios

OBJECTIVE

Compare mechanical and pharmacological ripening for patients with oligohydramnios at term.

STUDY DESIGN

Fifty-two patients with oligohydramnios ⩽ 5 cm and Bishop score ⩽ 6 were randomized for labor induction with a vaginal insert containing 10 mg timed-release dinoprostone (PGE2) or double-balloon catheter. The primary outcome was time from induction to active labor. Time to labor, neonatal outcomes and maternal satisfaction were also compared.

RESULT

Baseline characteristics were similar. Time from induction to active labor (13 with PGE2 vs 19.5 h with double-balloon catheter; P = 0.243) was comparable, with no differences in cesarean rates (15.4 vs 7.7%; P = 0.668) or neonatal outcomes. The PGE2 group had higher incidence of early device removal (76.9 vs 26.9%; P = 0.0001), mostly because of active labor or non-reassuring fetal heart rate. Fewer PGE2 patients required oxytocin augmentation for labor induction (53.8 vs 84.6% P = 0.034). Time to delivery was significantly shorter with PGE2 (16 vs 20.5 h; P = 0. 045).

CONCLUSION

Intravaginal PGE2 and double-balloon catheter are comparable methods for cervical ripening in term pregnancies with oligohydramnios.

Usefulness of fetal urine production measurement for prediction of perinatal outcomes in uteroplacental insufficiency

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate whether fetal urine production measurement is useful for predicting adverse outcomes in patients with uteroplacental insufficiency.

METHODS

We enrolled patients with uteroplacental insufficiency at 24 to 40 weeks' gestation and normal pregnancies matched for gestational age and divided them into 3 groups according to perinatal outcomes: group 1 (n = 141), a control group of normal pregnancies; group 2 (n = 29), uteroplacental insufficiency without adverse outcomes; and group 3 (n = 18), uteroplacental insufficiency with adverse outcomes. An adverse outcome was defined as 1 or more of the following: (1) cesarean delivery because of fetal distress; (2) admission to the neonatal intensive care unit; (3) cord arterial pH less than 7.15 at birth; and (4) low 5-minute Apgar score (<7). The fetal urine production rate was obtained by serial bladder volume measurement using virtual organ computer-aided analysis. For bladder volume determination, we scanned the bladder in the 3-dimensional mode and defined the bladder surface contour in the reference plane, repeating the rotation of the reference plane with an angle of 30° and determining the surface contour on each plane. Statistical methods, including the Mann-Whitney U test, Fisher exact test, χ(2) test, and Kruskal-Wallis analysis of variance, were used.

RESULTS

Group 3 had a lower mean fetal urine production rate than groups 1 and 2, whereas the urine production rate was not different between groups 1 and 2 (group 1, 49.0 mL/h; group 2, 59.4 mL/h; group 3, 20.7 mL/h; P < .001 between groups 1 and 3 and between groups 2 and 3). This difference between groups 2 and 3 remained significant after adjusting for the amniotic fluid index, umbilical artery Doppler pulsatility index, and presence of fetal growth restriction.

CONCLUSIONS

Uteroplacental insufficiency cases with adverse perinatal outcomes had a lower fetal urine production rate than those without adverse outcomes. This difference might be used to predict adverse perinatal outcomes in uteroplacental insufficiency.

Perinatal outcome after diagnosis of oligohydramnious at term

Background:

Oligohydramnious is threatening condition to fetal health for which some treatment are available and some are under evaluation. Oligohydramnious, is associated with increased pregnancy complication, congenital anomalies and perinatal mortality. There is an inverse relationship between the amniotic fluid index (AFI) and the adverse perinatal outcome. Oligo hydramnlious is clinical condition characteries by amniotic fluid index (AFI) of 5cm or less. Its incidence is 3-5 % of all the pregnancies an accurate and reproducible method of determining abnormality in amniotic fluid volume (AFI) is sonographic asessment of amniotic fluid index (AFI). It often increase the risk of small for gestational age (SGA) and also the incidence of cesarean section, meconium stained, low apgar score and Neonatal intensive care (NICU) admission.

Objectives:

The aim of study was to analyze the fetal out come in low risk pregnant women with oligohydramnious at term. This is a prospective, descriptive study.

Materials and Methods:

The study was conducted at Amiralmomenin hospital in Zabol for a period of 8 months from 2012/Mar/27 to 2012/Nov/5.It included 100 pregnant women diagnosed with the AFI of or less than 5cm at term. Control group included 300 pregnant women with AFI more than 8cm. Comparison was done between the study group and the control group. Regarding the fetal and pregnancy outcome using chi square and p value, detail were recorded in terms of fetal weight, apgar score at 1 and 5 minutes.

Results:

Mode of delivery, NICU admission neonatal death and induction of labour. Oligohydramnious is associated with a high rate of pregnancy complication and increased preinatal morbidity and mortality. Women with oligohydramnious usually have low birth babies.

Conclusions:

However, it can expect a safe and good outcome for which proper fetal surveillance and regular antenatal care visits are required.

Borderline amniotic fluid index and its relation to fetal intolerance of labor: a 2-center retrospective cohort study

OBJECTIVES

To determine whether a borderline amniotic fluid index (AFI) in the third trimester is associated with an increased rate of cesarean delivery for fetal intolerance of labor, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, and intrauterine growth restriction, among other adverse perinatal outcomes.

METHODS

Patients with a diagnosis of a borderline AFI between January 2008 and August 2012 were identified. Antepartum, delivery, and neonatal data were collected and compared to a cohort with a normal AFI.

RESULTS

We enrolled 739 patients, including 177 with a borderline AFI (>5 and <10 cm) and 562 with a normal AFI (≥ 10-24 cm); 360 patients delivered at University of Arizona Medical Center, and 379 delivered at St Joseph's Hospital. Combined and individual analyses of each center revealed no significant difference in fetal intolerance of labor (P = .19) or cesarean delivery for fetal intolerance (P = .074) between cohorts. In both settings, patients with a borderline AFI were more likely than those with a normal AFI to undergo antepartum testing (P < .001). A statistically significant increase in intrauterine growth restriction in the borderline AFI group was noted, with a calculated risk ratio of 13.76 (P < .001). There was no difference between groups for meconium-stained amniotic fluid (P = .23), neonatal intensive care unit admission (P = .054), preterm delivery (P = .31), or operative vaginal delivery (P = .45).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study suggest that there is no difference in the rate of fetal intolerance of labor in pregnancies with a borderline AFI and those with a normal AFI. Pregnancies complicated by a borderline AFI are more likely to undergo antepartum testing, yet the benefit is unclear. Significantly more patients with a borderline AFI had underlying growth restriction, which may provide a useful tool for risk stratification in the management of a borderline AFI.

The risk factors for failure of labor induction: a cohort study

PURPOSE

To assess how some factors may influence the failure of labor induction.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational study from January 2009 to December 2011 with 248 patients who were admitted to the Obstetrics Unit of Ferrara University for labor induction. We selected only patients with unfavorable characteristics such as nulliparity, maternal and gestational age, and Bishop score and specific obstetric conditions such as mild preeclampsia, isolated oligohydramnios, premature rupture membrane, gestational diabetes, and hypertension for the success of labor induction.

RESULTS

The induction was carried out by rapid-release gel dinoprostone. 200 patients (80.6 %) delivered vaginally (Group A), while 48 (19.4 %) underwent a cesarean section (Group B). Maternal age was one independent significant variable (p = 0.01, OR 1.08) determining the risk of cesarean delivery. Patients affected by mild preeclampsia had a three times higher risk for cesarean section. Despite the several unfavorable characteristics of the patients, the cesarean section rate was comparable to that of the normal population.

CONCLUSIONS

Several factors and clinical conditions historically considered as negative predictors of induction result should be reassessed. The success of labor induction is determined by many maternal and fetal variables, which must all be taken into account to avoid unnecessary cesarean sections.