THE EFFECTS OF PREGNANCY IN SUBJECTS WITH REPAIRED TETRALOGY OF FALLOT

BACKGROUND

Previous reports reveal inconsistent findings of right ventricular (RV) changes following pregnancy in subjects with repaired tetralogy of Fallot (rTOF).

METHODS

A two-center, retrospective cohort study which included women with rTOF who completed pregnancy that were matched to nulliparous women with rTOF by age at the time of baseline cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR), RV ejection fraction (RVEF), and indexed RV end-diastolic volume (RVEDVi). Pre-pregnancy and postpartum cardiac magnetic resonance (CMR) were analyzed and compared to sequential CMR of nulliparous subjects with rTOF.

RESULTS

Thirty-six women with rTOF who completed pregnancy were matched to 72 nulliparous women with rTOF. Over a mean period of 3.1 years for the pregnancy group and 2.7 years for the comparison group, there was no significant change in the RVEDVi, RVEF, RV mass, pulmonary regurgitation severity, left ventricular (LV) volumes, LV ejection fraction (LVEF), or LV mass when comparing the baseline CMR and the follow-up CMR in either of the groups. There was a slight increase in RV indexed end-systolic volume (RVESVi) when comparing the baseline CMR and the follow-up CMR in the pregnancy group (68.93, SD 23.34 ml/m2 at baseline vs. 72.97, SD 25.24 ml/m2 at follow-up, p= 0.028). Using a mixed effects model for CMR parameters change over time; when adjusted for time between baseline and follow-up CMR there was no significant difference in rate of change between the pregnancy and comparison groups.

CONCLUSIONS

Most ventricular remodeling parameters measured by CMR did not significantly change in subjects with rTOF who completed pregnancy or in nulliparous subjects with rTOF. In the pregnancy group, RVESVi is larger in those individuals who have undergone pregnancy without a significant change in ventricular function. These patients should be followed longitudinally to determine the long-term ventricular and clinical effects of pregnancy.

Coronary Microvascular Function Following Severe Preeclampsia

BACKGROUND

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder associated with an imbalance in circulating proangiogenic and antiangiogenic proteins. Preclinical evidence implicates microvascular dysfunction as a potential mediator of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular risk.

METHODS

Women with singleton pregnancies complicated by severe antepartum-onset preeclampsia and a comparator group with normotensive deliveries underwent cardiac positron emission tomography within 4 weeks of delivery. A control group of premenopausal, nonpostpartum women was also included. Myocardial flow reserve, myocardial blood flow, and coronary vascular resistance were compared across groups. sFlt-1 (soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-1) and PlGF (placental growth factor) were measured at imaging.

RESULTS

The primary cohort included 19 women with severe preeclampsia (imaged at a mean of 15.3 days postpartum), 5 with normotensive pregnancy (mean, 14.4 days postpartum), and 13 nonpostpartum female controls. Preeclampsia was associated with lower myocardial flow reserve (β, -0.67 [95% CI, -1.21 to -0.13]; P=0.016), lower stress myocardial blood flow (β, -0.68 [95% CI, -1.07 to -0.29] mL/min per g; P=0.001), and higher stress coronary vascular resistance (β, +12.4 [95% CI, 6.0 to 18.7] mm Hg/mL per min/g; P=0.001) versus nonpostpartum controls. Myocardial flow reserve and coronary vascular resistance after normotensive pregnancy were intermediate between preeclamptic and nonpostpartum groups. Following preeclampsia, myocardial flow reserve was positively associated with time following delivery (P=0.008). The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio strongly correlated with rest myocardial blood flow (r=0.71; P<0.001), independent of hemodynamics.

CONCLUSIONS

In this exploratory cross-sectional study, we observed reduced coronary microvascular function in the early postpartum period following preeclampsia, suggesting that systemic microvascular dysfunction in preeclampsia involves coronary microcirculation. Further research is needed to establish interventions to mitigate the risk of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular disease.

Coronary Microvascular Function Following Severe Preeclampsia

Background

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder associated with an imbalance in circulating pro- and anti-angiogenic proteins. Preclinical evidence implicates microvascular dysfunction as a potential mediator of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular risk.

Methods

Women with singleton pregnancies complicated by severe antepartum-onset preeclampsia and a comparator group with normotensive deliveries underwent cardiac positron emission tomography (PET) within 4 weeks of delivery. A control group of pre-menopausal, non-postpartum women was also included. Myocardial flow reserve (MFR), myocardial blood flow (MBF), and coronary vascular resistance (CVR) were compared across groups. Soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase receptor-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF) were measured at imaging.

Results

The primary cohort included 19 women with severe preeclampsia (imaged at a mean 16.0 days postpartum), 5 with normotensive pregnancy (mean 14.4 days postpartum), and 13 non-postpartum female controls. Preeclampsia was associated with lower MFR (β=-0.67 [95% CI -1.21 to -0.13]; P=0.016), lower stress MBF (β=-0.68 [95% CI, -1.07 to -0.29] mL/min/g; P=0.001), and higher stress CVR (β=+12.4 [95% CI 6.0 to 18.7] mmHg/mL/min/g; P=0.001) vs. non-postpartum controls. MFR and CVR after normotensive pregnancy were intermediate between preeclamptic and non-postpartum groups. Following preeclampsia, MFR was positively associated with time following delivery (P=0.008). The sFlt-1/PlGF ratio strongly correlated with rest MBF (r=0.71; P<0.001), independent of hemodynamics.

Conclusions

In this exploratory study, we observed reduced coronary microvascular function in the early postpartum period following severe preeclampsia, suggesting that systemic microvascular dysfunction in preeclampsia involves the coronary microcirculation. Further research is needed to establish interventions to mitigate risk of preeclampsia-associated cardiovascular disease.

Abortion Restrictiveness and Infant Mortality: An Ecologic Study, 2014-2018

INTRODUCTION

The U.S. has the highest infant mortality rate among peer countries. Restrictive abortion laws may contribute to poor infant health outcomes. This ecological study investigated the association between county-level infant mortality and state-level abortion access legislation in the U.S. from 2014 to 2018.

METHODS

A multivariable regression analysis with the outcome of county-level infant mortality rates, controlling for the primary exposure of state-level abortion laws, and county-level factors, county-level distance to an abortion facility, and state Medicaid expansion status was performed. Incidence rate ratios and 95% CIs were reported. Analyses were conducted in 2022-2023.

RESULTS

There were 113,397 infant deaths among 19,559,660 live births (infant mortality rate=5.79 deaths/1,000 live births; 95% CI=5.75, 5.82). Black infant mortality rate (10.69/1,000) was more than twice the White infant mortality rate (4.87/1,000). In the multivariable model, increased infant mortality rates were seen in states with ≥8 restrictive laws, with the most restrictive (11-12 laws) having a 16% increased infant mortality level (adjusted incidence rate ratios=1.162; 95% CI=1.103, 1.224). Increased infant mortality rates were associated with increased county-level Black race individuals (adjusted incidence rate ratios=1.031; 95% CI=1.026, 1.037), high school education (adjusted incidence rate ratios=1.018; 95% CI=1.008, 1.029), maternal smoking (adjusted incidence rate ratios=1.025; 95% CI=1.018, 1.033), and inadequate prenatal care (adjusted incidence rate ratios=1.045; 95% CI=1.036, 1.055).

CONCLUSIONS

State-level abortion law restrictiveness is associated with higher county-level infant mortality rates. The Supreme Court decision on Dobbs versus Jackson and changes in state laws limiting abortion may affect future infant mortality.

Maternal Cardiovascular Health Post-Dobbs

Maternal Cardiovascular Health Post-DobbsPregnancy is associated with increasing morbidity and mortality in the United States. In the post-Dobbs era, many pregnant patients at highest risk no longer have access to abortion, which has been a crucial component of standard medical care.

Cardiac Complications of Pregnancy in Desmoplakin Cardiomyopathy

We present the course of 4 pregnancies in 3 women with desmoplakin cardiomyopathy, with a focus on changes in left ventricular ejection fraction and N-terminal pro-B-type natriuretic peptide levels from the prepregnancy period through the postpartum period, as well as maternal cardiac, obstetric, and neonatal outcomes. (Level of Difficulty: Advanced.).

Simulation to improve trainee knowledge and comfort in managing maternal cardiac arrest

BACKGROUND

Maternal cardiac arrest is a rare outcome, and thus there are limited opportunities for specialists in obstetrics and gynecology to acquire the skills required to respond to it through routine clinical practice.

OBJECTIVE

This study aimed to evaluate gaps in medical education in maternal cardiac arrest and whether a simulation-based training program improves resident knowledge and comfort in the diagnosis and treatment of maternal cardiac arrest.

STUDY DESIGN

A 2-hour training for obstetrics and gynecology residents at an academic medical center was conducted, consisting of a didactic presentation, defibrillator skills station, and 2 high-fidelity simulations. Consenting residents completed a 21-item pretest followed by a 12-item posttest exploring knowledge of and exposure to maternal cardiac arrest. The McNemar and Wilcoxon signed-rank tests were used to compare pre- and posttest data.

RESULTS

Of 21 residents, 15 (71.4%) had no previous education about maternal cardiac arrest, and 17 (81.0%) had never responded to a maternal code. Participants demonstrated increased knowledge about maternal cardiac arrest after the session, providing more correct answers on the reversible causes of pulseless electrical activity arrest (median 4 vs 7 correct responses; P<.01). After the training, more residents were able to identify the correct gestational age to perform a cesarean delivery during maternal cardiac arrest (19.0% vs 90.5%; P<.01) and the correct location for this procedure (52.4% vs 95.2%; P<.01). All residents reported that maternal cardiac arrest training was important and that they would benefit from additional sessions. Median composite comfort level in managing maternal cardiac arrest significantly increased after participation (pretest, 24.0 [interquartile range, 21.5-28.0]; posttest, 37.0 [interquartile range, 34.3-41.3]; P<.01).

CONCLUSION

Residents report limited exposure to maternal cardiac arrest and desire more training. Simulation-based training about maternal cardiac arrest is needed during residency to ensure that graduates are prepared to respond to this high-acuity event.

Moderate intensity exercise in pregnant patients with cardiovascular disease: A pilot study

BACKGROUND

Exercise in pregnancy has proven health benefits, yet the safety of exercise in patients with pre-existing cardiovascular disease (CVD) has not been established. Our aim was to determine the feasibility and safety profile of moderate intensity exercise during pregnancy in patients with CVD, compared with those without CVD.

METHODS

This is a prospective single center pilot study of a moderate intensity exercise regimen, with data collection through wearable fitness trackers and personal exercise logs in pregnant patients with and without pre-existing CVD. The primary outcome was Doppler umbilical artery systolic to diastolic (S/D) ratio measured between 32 and 34 weeks' gestation. The secondary outcomes were adverse maternal and fetal events, trends in wearable fitness tracker data, C-reactive protein levels, and weight changes.

RESULTS

At baseline, the CVD group (62% congenital heart disease) took part in more prepregnancy walking, less weightlifting, and had a higher body mass index compared to the control group, and on average walked 539 fewer steps per day during pregnancy than the control group. Resting heart rate (HR) was found to increase in both groups up to 30 weeks' gestation. The cardiovascular disease group displayed an overall lower exercise intensity, as measured by the ability to increase HR with exercise over resting heart rate 1 hour prior to exercise at study baseline (45% vs 59% P < .001). Umbilical artery S/D ratio was normal in both groups. No differences were seen in adverse events between groups.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot study of moderate intensity exercise in pregnant individuals with pre-existing CVD demonstrated that patients with CVD were not able to increase their HR during exercise throughout pregnancy compared to those in the control group. Although a small study group, this data supports the hypothesis that exercise interventions during pregnancy for patients with CVD are feasible without evidence abnormal fetal Doppler profiles. Further studies using wearable fitness trackers may provide the opportunity to understand how to safely tailor exercise programs to pregnant individuals with CVD.

Perioperative Anesthetic Management of the Pregnant Patient With Congenital Heart Disease Undergoing Cardiac Intervention: A Systematic Review

Maternal congenital heart disease is increasingly prevalent, and has been associated with a significantly increased risk of maternal, obstetric, and neonatal complications. For patients with CHD who require cardiac interventions during pregnancy, there is little evidence-based guidance with regard to optimal perioperative management. The periprocedural management of pregnant patients with congenital heart disease requires extensive planning and a multidisciplinary teams-based approach. Anesthesia providers must not only be facile in the management of adult congenital heart disease, but cognizant of the normal, but significant, physiologic changes of pregnancy.

Timing of Delivery in Women with Cardiac Disease

OBJECTIVE

Guidelines do not exist to determine timing of delivery for women with cardiovascular disease (CVD) in pregnancy. The neonatal benefit of a term delivery as compared with an early term delivery is well described. We sought to examine maternal outcomes in women with CVD who delivered in the early term period (37^0/7 through 38^6/7 weeks) compared with those who delivered later.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a prospective cohort study examining cardiac and obstetric outcomes in women with CVD delivering between September 2011 and December 2016. The associations between gestational age at delivery and maternal, fetal, and obstetric characteristics were evaluated.

RESULTS

Two-hundred twenty-five women with CVD were included, 83 (37%) delivered in the early term period and 142 (63%) delivered at term. While the early term group had significantly higher rates of any hypertension during pregnancy (18.1 vs. 7%, p = 0.01) and intrauterine growth restriction (22.9 vs. 2.8%, p < 0.001), there was no difference in high-risk cardiac or obstetric characteristics. No difference in composite cardiac morbidity was found (4.8 vs. 3.5%, p = 0.24). Women in the early term group were more likely to undergo cesarean delivery than women in the term group (43.4 vs. 24.7%, p = 0.004).

CONCLUSION

There is no maternal benefit of an early term delivery in otherwise healthy women with CVD. Given the known fetal consequences of early term delivery, this study offers support to existing literature suggesting term delivery in these women.

KEY POINTS

· Question of delivery timing in women with cardiac disease.. · No difference in cardiac morbidity, term versus early term.. · Term delivery in women with asymptomatic cardiac disease..

Outcomes after treatment of breast cancer during pregnancy including taxanes and/or granulocyte colony-stimulating factor use: findings from a multi-institutional retrospective analysis

BACKGROUND

Guidelines support comparable treatment for women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy (PrBC) and nonpregnant women with limited case-specific modifications to ensure maternal-fetal safety. Experience during pregnancy with modern agents, such as taxanes or granulocyte colony-stimulating factors (GCSF), is limited.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We retrospectively identified a multi-institutional cohort of PrBC between 1996 and 2020. Propensity score analyses with multiple imputation for missing variables were applied to determine the associations between chemotherapy exposures during pregnancy, with or without taxanes or GCSF, and a compound maternal-fetal outcome including spontaneous preterm birth, preterm premature rupture of membranes, chorioamnionitis, small for gestational age newborns, congenital malformation, or 5-min Apgar score < 7.

RESULTS

Among 139 PrBC pregnancies, 82 (59.0%) were exposed to chemotherapy, including 26 (31.7%) to taxane and 18 (22.0%) to GCSF. Chemotherapy use, in general, and inclusion of taxane and/or GCSF, specifically, increased over time. Pregnancies resulting in live singleton births (n = 123) and exposed to chemotherapy were as likely to reach term as those that were not (59.5% vs. 63.6%, respectively, p_unadjusted = 0.85). Among women treated with chemotherapy, propensity score-matched odds ratios (OR) for the composite maternal-fetal outcome were not significantly increased with taxane (OR 1.24, 95% CI 0.27-5.72) or GCSF (OR 2.11, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.48-9.22) with similar effects in multiple imputation and sensitivity models.

CONCLUSION

The judicious increased use of taxane chemotherapy and/or growth factor support during pregnancy was not associated with unfavorable short-term maternal-fetal outcomes. While these findings are reassuring, case numbers remain limited and continued surveillance of these patients and progeny is warranted.

Birthweight and Chemotherapy Exposure in Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer during Pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed cancers in pregnancy and is commonly treated with chemotherapy. To date, studies examining effects of chemotherapy during pregnancy on fetal growth have yielded conflicting results, and most are limited by small sample sizes or are nonspecific with respect to cytotoxic regimen or type of cancer treated. We sought to evaluate the effect of chemotherapy for breast cancer in pregnancy on birthweight and small for gestational age infants.

STUDY DESIGN

This is a retrospective cohort study of 74 women diagnosed with pathologically confirmed breast cancer during pregnancy between 1997 and 2018 at one of three academic medical centers, who had a singleton birth with known birthweight. Forty-nine received chemotherapy and 25 did not receive chemotherapy. Linear regression modeling was used to compare birthweight (by gestational age and sex-specific z-score) by chemotherapy exposure. Subanalyses of specific chemotherapy regimen and duration of chemotherapy exposure were also performed. Placental, neonatal, and maternal outcomes were also analyzed by chemotherapy exposure.

RESULTS

In the adjusted model, chemotherapy exposure was associated with lower birthweight (Δ z-score = -0.49, p = 0.03), but similar rates of small for gestational age (defined as birthweight <10th percentile for gestational age) infants (8.2 vs. 8.0%, p = 1.0; Fisher's exact test). Each additional week of chemotherapy (Δ z-score = -0.05, p = 0.03) was associated with decreased birthweight, although no association was found with specific chemotherapy regimen. Chemotherapy exposure was associated with lower median placental weight percentile by gestational age (9th vs. 75th, p < 0.05). Secondary maternal outcomes were similar between the group that did and did not receive chemotherapy.

CONCLUSION

Chemotherapy for breast cancer in pregnancy in this cohort is associated with lower birthweight but no difference in the rate of small for gestational age infants.

KEY POINTS

· Chemotherapy for breast cancer in pregnancy is associated with decreased birthweight but similar rates of small for gestational age infants.. · Birthweight did not differ according to chemotherapy regimen.. · There is no difference in the rate of small for gestational age infants..

Management of acute cardiovascular complications in pregnancy

The growing population of women with heart disease of reproductive age has been associated with an increasing number of high-risk pregnancies. Pregnant women with heart disease are a very heterogeneous population, with different risks for maternal cardiovascular, obstetric, and foetal complications. Adverse cardiovascular events during pregnancy pose significant clinical challenges, with uncertainties regarding diagnostic and therapeutic approaches potentially compromising maternal and foetal health. This review summarizes best practice for the treatment of common cardiovascular complications during pregnancy, based on expert opinion, current guidelines, and available evidence. Topics covered include heart failure (HF), arrhythmias, coronary artery disease, aortic and thromboembolic events, and the management of mechanical heart valves during pregnancy. Cardiovascular pathology is the leading cause of non-obstetric morbidity and mortality during pregnancy in developed countries. For women with pre-existing cardiac conditions, preconception counselling and structured follow-up during pregnancy are important measures for reducing the risk of acute cardiovascular complications during gestation and at the time of delivery. However, many women do not receive pre-pregnancy counselling often due to gaps in what should be lifelong care, and physicians are increasingly encountering pregnant women who present acutely with cardiac complications, including HF, arrhythmias, aortic events, coronary syndromes, and bleeding or thrombotic events. This review provides a summary of recommendations on the management of acute cardiovascular complication during pregnancy, based on available literature and expert opinion. This article covers the diagnosis, risk stratification, and therapy and is organized according to the clinical presentation and the type of complication, providing a reference for the practicing cardiologist, obstetrician, and acute medicine specialist, while highlighting areas of need and potential future research.

Bleeding and thrombotic risk in pregnant women with Fontan physiology

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVES

Pregnancy may potentiate the inherent hypercoagulability of the Fontan circulation, thereby amplifying adverse events. This study sought to evaluate thrombosis and bleeding risk in pregnant women with a Fontan.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective observational cohort study across 13 international centres and recorded data on thrombotic and bleeding events, antithrombotic therapies and pre-pregnancy thrombotic risk factors.

RESULTS

We analysed 84 women with Fontan physiology undergoing 108 pregnancies, average gestation 33±5 weeks. The most common antithrombotic therapy in pregnancy was aspirin (ASA, 47 pregnancies (43.5%)). Heparin (unfractionated (UFH) or low molecular weight (LMWH)) was prescribed in 32 pregnancies (30%) and vitamin K antagonist (VKA) in 10 pregnancies (9%). Three pregnancies were complicated by thrombotic events (2.8%). Thirty-eight pregnancies (35%) were complicated by bleeding, of which 5 (13%) were severe. Most bleeds were obstetric, occurring antepartum (45%) and postpartum (42%). The use of therapeutic heparin (OR 15.6, 95% CI 1.88 to 129, p=0.006), VKA (OR 11.7, 95% CI 1.06 to 130, p=0.032) or any combination of anticoagulation medication (OR 13.0, 95% CI 1.13 to 150, p=0.032) were significantly associated with bleeding events, while ASA (OR 5.41, 95% CI 0.73 to 40.4, p=0.067) and prophylactic heparin were not (OR 4.68, 95% CI 0.488 to 44.9, p=0.096).

CONCLUSIONS

Current antithrombotic strategies appear effective at attenuating thrombotic risk in pregnant women with a Fontan. However, this comes with high (>30%) bleeding risk, of which 13% are life threatening. Achieving haemostatic balance is challenging in pregnant women with a Fontan, necessitating individualised risk-adjusted counselling and therapeutic approaches that are monitored during the course of pregnancy.

Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve Performance During Pregnancy and the Postpartum Period

Increasing numbers of women with congenital heart disease are undergoing pregnancy after transcatheter pulmonary valve replacement (TPVR). We present the course of 9 pregnancies in 7 women with TPVR, noting pre-pregnancy, antepartum, and postpartum gradients, as well as maternal cardiac, obstetric, and neonatal outcomes. (Level of Difficulty: Intermediate.)

Low mortality in fetal supraventricular tachycardia: Outcomes in a 30-year single-institution experience

OBJECTIVES

To describe a single institutional experience managing fetuses with supraventricular tachycardia (SVT) and to identify associations between patient characteristics and fetal and postnatal outcomes.

BACKGROUND

Sustained fetal SVT is associated with significant morbidity and mortality if untreated, yet the optimal management strategy remains unclear.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study including fetuses diagnosed with sustained SVT (>50% of the diagnostic echocardiogram) between 1985 and 2018. Fetuses with congenital heart disease were excluded.

RESULTS

Sustained SVT was diagnosed in 65 fetuses at a median gestational age of 30 weeks (range, 14-37). Atrioventricular re-entrant tachycardia and atrial flutter were the most common diagnoses, seen in 41 and 16 cases, respectively. Moderate/severe ventricular dysfunction was present in 20 fetuses, and hydrops fetalis was present in 13. Of the 57 fetuses initiated on transplacental drug therapy, 47 received digoxin first-line, yet 39 of 57 (68%) required advanced therapy with sotalol, flecainide, or amiodarone. Rate or rhythm control was achieved in 47 of 57 treated fetuses. There were no cases of intrauterine fetal demise. Later gestational age at fetal diagnosis (odds ratio [OR], 1.1, 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.01-1.2, P = .02) and moderate/severe fetal ventricular dysfunction (OR, 6.1, 95% CI, 1.7-21.6, P = .005) were associated with postnatal SVT. Two postnatal deaths occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

Fetuses with structurally normal hearts and sustained SVT can be effectively managed with transplacental drug therapy with minimal risk of intrauterine fetal demise. Treatment requires multiple antiarrhythmic agents in over half of cases. Later gestational age at fetal diagnosis and the presence of depressed fetal ventricular function, but not hydrops, predict postnatal arrhythmia burden.

Planned vaginal delivery and cardiovascular morbidity in pregnant women with heart disease

BACKGROUND

Although consensus guidelines on the management of cardiovascular disease in pregnancy reserve cesarean delivery for obstetric indications, there is a paucity of data to support this approach.

OBJECTIVE

The objective of the study was to compare cardiovascular and obstetric morbidity in women with cardiovascular disease according to the plan for vaginal birth or cesarean delivery.

STUDY DESIGN

We assembled a prospective cohort of women delivering at an academic tertiary care center with a protocolized multidisciplinary approach to management of cardiovascular disease between September 2011 and December 2016. Our practice is to encourage vaginal birth in women with cardiovascular disease unless there is an obstetric indication for cesarean delivery. We allow women attempting vaginal birth a trial of Valsalva in the second stage with the ability to provide operative vaginal delivery if pushing leads to changes in hemodynamics or symptoms. Women were classified according to planned mode of delivery: either vaginal birth or cesarean delivery. We then used univariate analysis to compare adverse outcomes according to planned mode of delivery. The primary composite cardiac outcome of interest included sustained arrhythmia, heart failure, cardiac arrest, cerebral vascular accident, need for cardiac surgery or intervention, or death. Secondary obstetric and neonatal outcomes were also considered.

RESULTS

We included 276 consenting women with congenital heart disease (68.5%), arrhythmias (11.2%), connective tissue disease (9.1%), cardiomyopathy (8.0%), valvular disease (1.4%), or vascular heart disease (1.8%) at or beyond 24 weeks' gestation. Seventy-six percent (n = 210) planned vaginal birth and 24% (n = 66) planned cesarean delivery. Women planning vaginal birth had lower rates of left ventricular outflow tract obstruction, multiparity, and preterm delivery. All women attempting vaginal birth were allowed Valsalva. Among planned vaginal deliveries 86.2% (n = 181) were successful, with a 9.5% operative vaginal delivery rate. Five women underwent operative vaginal delivery for the indication of cardiovascular disease without another obstetric indication at the discretion of the delivering provider. Four of these patients tolerated trials of Valsalva ranging from 15 to 75 minutes prior to delivery. Adverse cardiac outcomes were similar between planned vaginal birth and cesarean delivery groups (4.3% vs 3.0%, P = 1.00). Rates of postpartum hemorrhage (1.9% vs 10.6%, P < .01) and transfusion (1.9% vs 9.1%, P = .01) were lower in the planned vaginal birth group. There were no differences in adverse cardiac, obstetric, or neonatal outcomes in the cohort overall or the subset of women with high-risk cardiovascular disease or a high burden of obstetric comorbidity.

CONCLUSION

These findings suggest that cesarean delivery does not reduce adverse cardiovascular outcomes and lend support to a planned vaginal birth for the majority of women with cardiovascular disease including those with high-risk disease.

Standardized outcomes in reproductive cardiovascular care: The STORCC initiative

BACKGROUND

Validated protocols for diagnostic testing and management of pregnant women with cardiovascular disease (CVD) do not exist. Our objective was to establish a prospective standardized protocol for the clinical evaluation of pregnant women with CVD.

METHODS

The Standardized Outcomes in Reproductive Cardiovascular Care (STORCC) initiative prospectively enrolled pregnant women with CVD into a standardized diagnostic testing and assessment protocol. Detailed cardiac and obstetric data were collected during the antepartum, intrapartum, and postpartum periods. Each woman was assigned a STORCC color code of perceived risk at a monthly multidisciplinary conference.

RESULTS

In 250 pregnancies of 207 women with CVD, the standardized care protocol was followed in 136 and routine care in 114. The median age of the subjects was 32 years, and the most common form of heart disease was congenital heart disease (77%). Women enrolled in standardized care protocol had high compliance with second- and third-trimester visits (93%) and postpartum visits (76%). Maternal cardiac complications occurred in 10%. The STORCC cardiac and obstetric color codes predicted adverse outcomes within each respective category (P = .02, .01).

CONCLUSIONS

The STORCC protocol for prospective diagnostic testing and follow-up of pregnant women with CVD was successfully established, and compliance was high. The strength of a standardized testing and care protocol as well as detailed classification of labor and delivery characteristics allows for robust analyses into specific questions regarding testing protocols, and mode and timing of delivery.

Abstract P1-17-02: Outcomes and safety of paclitaxel and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF) in breast cancer in pregnancy (BCP) - A multi-institutional retrospective analysis

Background

BCP is uncommon; however, the frequency is increasing due to trends in delayed childbearing. Studies have suggested that some systemic therapies, including doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide, can be delivered safely during pregnancy after the first trimester, whereas agents such as trastuzumab and endocrine therapy are contraindicated due to risk to the fetus. Data remain limited on the efficacy and safety of administering taxane chemotherapy or growth factor support during pregnancy. We retrospectively evaluated the safety of systemic therapies, including paclitaxel and GCSF, as well as clinical outcomes, in a multi-institutional cohort of patients (pts) with BCP.

Methods

Pts treated for BCP from 1996-2018 from 3 large academic institutions were included. Demographic, oncologic treatment, and obstetric/neonatal outcomes data were obtained from medical records. Disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS) were estimated by Kaplan-Meier; Log-rank test were used to compare different groups/outcomes. Associations were calculated by Fisher's exact test.

Results

A total of 114 pts diagnosed with BCP were included. The median age was 35 years (range 25-44) and median gestational age at diagnosis was 18 weeks (range 2-38). BCP was predominantly early stage at diagnosis (stage I 28.0%, stage II 53.5%) and ER+/HER2- negative (48.2%). Sixty-three (55.2%) women received chemotherapy, 13 (11.4%) received paclitaxel and 11 (9.6%) GCSF (daily or depot injections) while pregnant. A total of 78% of pts with HER-2-positive BCP (28/36) received trastuzumab after delivery (11% were treated before 2005 and 5.5% were T1a). With median follow-up of 67.7 months, median DFS (stage I-III) was 212.8 months (CI 95% 108.4-317.1), and median OS (stage I-IV) was not reached. Subgroup analysis suggested a higher DFS for pts diagnosed in the 1sttrimester compared to the 3rdtrimester among women with stage II-III (HR 0.25 CI 95% 0.09-0.70, p= 0.03). Among women who received paclitaxel, there was no significant increase in adverse obstetrical/neonatal outcomes: preterm delivery (23.1% vs 13.1%, p 0.39), low weight newborn (7.7% vs 9.1 %, p 1.0), congenital malformations (0% vs 6.1%, p 1.0) or acute neonatal adverse outcomes (7.7% vs 4.0%, p 0.51), which include NICU need and Apgar 5'&lt;7, compared to pts who did not receive paclitaxel. Among pts who received GCSF during pregnancy, adverse outcomes were numerically but not statistically higher than women who did not receive growth factor: preterm delivery (36.3% vs 11.0%, p 0.051), low weight newborn (27.3% vs 6.9%, p 0.058), congenital malformations (9.1% vs 1.0%, p 0.18) or acute neonatal adverse outcomes (18.2% vs 3.0%, p 0.07).

Conclusion

In this multi-institution cohort of BCP pts, despite a small number of pts, exposure to contemporary therapies including paclitaxel was not associated with unfavorable obstetrical/neonatal outcomes and these results suggest it is safe to administer during pregnancy under the care of a multidisciplinary team. Although not statistically significant, GCSF presented numerical worse outcomes and combining data from several cohorts would be helpful to provide confirmation of these findings.

Citation Format: Exman P, Freret TS, Economy KE, Chen WY, Parsons HA, Lin NU, Moy B, Tung NM, Partridge AH, Mayer EL. Outcomes and safety of paclitaxel and granulocyte-colony stimulating factor (GCSF) in breast cancer in pregnancy (BCP) - A multi-institutional retrospective analysis [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 2018 San Antonio Breast Cancer Symposium; 2018 Dec 4-8; San Antonio, TX. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2019;79(4 Suppl):Abstract nr P1-17-02.

State of the Art Management of Mechanical Heart Valves During Pregnancy

PURPOSE OF THE REVIEW

To review the management of women with mechanical heart valves during pregnancy, from preconception counseling through delivery with a summary of the latest guidelines.

RECENT FINDINGS

The hypercoagulability of pregnancy combined with the imperfect choices of anticoagulant agents contribute to a high risk of complications in pregnant women with mechanical heart valves. Valve thrombosis remains a major concern, much of which occurs during the first trimester transition to heparin-based products. The safest method of anticoagulation, with the best balance of maternal and fetal risk, is use of low-dose vitamin K antagonists, but only if therapeutic anticoagulation can be achieved with warfarin doses of ≤ 5 mg/day. Management of mechanical heart valves in pregnancy remains fraught with difficult decisions involving balancing of maternal and fetal risks as well as a high risk of maternal and fetal complications. Preconception counseling and planning is imperative. A risk-benefit discussion with the patient will help guide the choice of anticoagulation and outline the plan for safe delivery options. A multidisciplinary approach to management is advisable with close follow-up and care in a tertiary center.

Spontaneous Coronary Artery Dissection: Current State of the Science: A Scientific Statement From the American Heart Association

Spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) has emerged as an important cause of acute coronary syndrome, myocardial infarction, and sudden death, particularly among young women and individuals with few conventional atherosclerotic risk factors. Patient-initiated research has spurred increased awareness of SCAD, and improved diagnostic capabilities and findings from large case series have led to changes in approaches to initial and long-term management and increasing evidence that SCAD not only is more common than previously believed but also must be evaluated and treated differently from atherosclerotic myocardial infarction. High rates of recurrent SCAD; its association with female sex, pregnancy, and physical and emotional stress triggers; and concurrent systemic arteriopathies, particularly fibromuscular dysplasia, highlight the differences in clinical characteristics of SCAD compared with atherosclerotic disease. Recent insights into the causes of, clinical course of, treatment options for, outcomes of, and associated conditions of SCAD and the many persistent knowledge gaps are presented.

Immediate breast reconstruction following mastectomy in pregnant women with breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Surgical management of breast cancer in pregnancy (BCP) requires balancing benefits of therapy with potential risks to the developing fetus. Minimal data describe outcomes after mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction (IR) in pregnant patients.

METHODS

Retrospective review was performed of patients who underwent IR after mastectomy within a BCP cohort. Parameters included intra- and post-operative complications, short-term maternal/fetal outcomes, surgery duration, and delayed reconstruction in non-IR cohort.

RESULTS

Of 82 patients with BCP, 29 (35%) had mastectomy during pregnancy: 10 (34%) had IR, 19(66%) did not. All IR utilized tissue expander (TE) placement. Mean gestational age (GA) at IR was 16.2 weeks. Mean surgery duration was 198 min with IR versus 157 min without IR. Those with IR delivered at, or close to, term infants of normal birthweight. No fetal or major obstetrical complications were seen. Post-mastectomy radiation (PMRT) was provided after pregnancy in 2 (20%) patients in the IR cohort and 12 (63%) in the non-IR cohort. All patients in the IR cohort successfully transitioned to permanent implant.

CONCLUSIONS

This report represents one of the largest series describing IR during BCP. IR after mastectomy increased surgery duration, but was not associated with adverse obstetrical or fetal outcomes. IR with TE may preserve reconstructive options when PMRT is indicated. J. Surg. Oncol. 2016;114:140-143. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy in pregnant women with breast cancer

BACKGROUND

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) in pregnant women with breast cancer is uncommonly pursued given concern for fetal harm. This study evaluated efficacy and safety outcomes in pregnant breast cancer patients undergoing SNB.

METHODS

Patients who underwent SNB while pregnant were identified from a retrospective parent cohort of women diagnosed with breast cancer during pregnancy. Chart review was performed to tabulate patient/tumor characteristics, method/outcome of SNB, and short-term maternal/fetal outcomes.

RESULTS

Within a cohort of 81, 47 clinically node-negative patients had surgery while pregnant: 25 (53.2 %) SNB, 20 (42.6 %) upfront axillary lymph node dissection, and 2 (4.3 %) no lymph node surgery. Of SNB patients, 8, 9, and 8 had SNB in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. 99 m-Technetium (99-Tc) alone was used in 16 patients, methylene blue dye alone in 7 patients, and 2 patients had unknown mapping method. Mapping was successful in all patients. There were no SNB-associated complications. At a median of 2.5 years from diagnosis, there was one locoregional recurrence, one new primary contralateral tumor, three distant recurrences, and one breast cancer death. Among patients who underwent SNB, there were 25 liveborn infants, of whom 24 were healthy, and 1 had cleft palate (in the setting of other maternal risk factors).

CONCLUSIONS

SNB in pregnant breast cancer patients appears to be safe and accurate using either methylene blue or 99-Tc. This is one of the largest reported experiences of SNB during pregnancy; however, numbers remain limited. SNB rates in this cohort were lower than in non-pregnant breast cancer patients.

Contemporary multidisciplinary treatment of pregnancy-associated breast cancer

Breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy poses unique challenges. Application of standard treatment algorithms is limited by lack of level I evidence from randomized trials. This study describes contemporary multidisciplinary treatment of pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) in an academic setting and explores early maternal and fetal outcomes. A search of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center clinical databases was performed to identify PABC cases. Sociodemographic, disease, pregnancy, and treatment information, as well as data on short-term maternal and fetal outcomes, were collected through retrospective chart review. 74 patients were identified, the majority with early-stage breast cancer. Most (73.5%) underwent surgical resection during pregnancy, including 40% with sentinel lymph node biopsy and 32% with immediate reconstruction. A total of 36 patients received anthracycline-based chemotherapy during pregnancy; of those, almost 20% were on a dose-dense schedule and 8.3% also received paclitaxel. 68 patients delivered liveborn infants; over half were delivered preterm (< 37 weeks), most scheduled to allow further maternal cancer therapy. For the infants with available data, all had normal Apgar scores and over 90% had birth weight >10^th percentile. The rate of fetal malformations (4.4%) was not different than expected population rate. Within a multidisciplinary academic setting, PABC treatment followed contemporary algorithms without apparent increase in maternal or fetal adverse outcomes. A considerable number of preterm deliveries were observed, the majority planned to facilitate cancer therapy. Continued attention to maternal and fetal outcomes after PABC is required to determine the benefit of this delivery strategy.

Immediate tissue expander breast reconstruction following mastectomy in pregnancy-associated breast cancer

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Background: Management of pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC) requires balancing benefits of therapy with potential risks to the developing fetus. Surgical management can be influenced by gestational age of fetus and tumor stage. Minimal data describe surgical and obstetrical outcomes after mastectomy with immediate breast reconstruction (IR) in a pregnant patient (pt). Methods: Pts who underwent IR after mastectomy were identified within a multi-institutional PABC cohort. Retrospective chart review was performed for outcomes including adverse intraoperative events, immediate postoperative complications, gestational age at delivery and fetal weight. Other parameters evaluated included stage at presentation, duration of surgery, and use of delayed reconstruction in pts who did not receive IR. Results: Within a cohort of 79 PABC pts, 25 (32%) had mastectomy while pregnant, 8 (32%) of whom had IC; 17 (68%) did not undergo IR. Mean gestational age at time of IR was 16.6 weeks (range 10-30) and all IR utilized tissue expander (TE) placement followed by permanent implant placement in 7 pts. In the IR cohort, 1 (12.5%) pt was stage 0, 3 (37.5%) stage I and 4 (50%) stage IIB. There were no intraoperative or immediate postoperative surgical complications. The mean duration of surgery was 198 min with IR (7 pts) vs. 157 min without IR (available for 12 pts). All women who underwent IR delivered at, or close to, term infants of normal birthweight. One pt had pre-term labor after surgery at 29 weeks which resolved with tocolysis. Mean gestational age at delivery was 37.3 weeks in the IR cohort vs. 36.3 weeks in the non-IR cohort. No fetal abnormalities or major obstetrical complications were seen after IR. Post-mastectomy radiation (PMRT) was provided after pregnancy in 2 pts (25%) in the IR cohort and cosmetic outcome was not adversely affected. Conclusions: This report represents one of the largest series describing IR after mastectomy in PABC. Results suggest immediate tissue expander placement after mastectomy may increase duration of surgery but does not lead to adverse obstetrical or fetal outcomes. IR with tissue expanders may preserve reconstructive options when PMRT is indicated.

Sentinel lymph node biopsy (SNB) in pregnancy-associated breast cancer (PABC)

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Background: SNB in PABC is not often pursued due to concerns for potential fetal harm. There are only limited data available regarding the safety and efficacy of SNB in patients (pts) with PABC. Methods: Pts with PABC who underwent SNB were identified from within an existing multi-institutional PABC cohort diagnosed 1996-2013. Factors evaluated included method and result of SNB evaluation, maternal disease outcome, and fetal outcomes. Results: Within a cohort of 78 PABC pts, 53 had breast surgery while pregnant; 23 (43%) underwent SNB, 27 (51%) underwent initial axillary node (AN) dissection, 18 of whom were clinically node negative, and 3 had no nodal evaluation. Of SNB pts, 21 (91%) had stage 1-2 disease; 14 (61%) had ER/PR+ disease and 7 (30%) HER2+. Eight (35%), 9 (39%), and 6 (26%) women had SNB in the first, second, and third trimesters, respectively. 99-Technetium-labelled sulfur colloid (99-Tc) alone was used for SNB in 14 pts; methylene blue (MB) dye alone was used in 7. SN was identified in 100% of pts; see Table. There were no SNB-associated complications. At a median of 2.4 years from diagnosis, there were no locoregional recurrences, 3 (13%) distant recurrences, and 1 (4%) death from breast cancer. Among pts who underwent SNB, there were 20 liveborn infants and 3 pregnancies ongoing. Of the 20 infants born, 18 were healthy, 1 unknown, and 1 had cleft palate (in setting of maternal risk factors including smoking and methadone). Conclusions: SNB in PABC appears to be a safe and accurate procedure using either 99-Tc or MB techniques. This is one of the largest experiences reported to date of SNB during PABC; however, numbers remain limited and rates of SNB in our cohort were lower than current rates in non-PABC patients. Additional research and monitoring for safety of this procedure is warranted in women with PABC. [Table: see text]

Sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging findings in uterine incarceration

We show the sonographic and magnetic resonance imaging features of uterine incarceration. Clinical data and imaging findings were retrospectively reviewed for 8 confirmed cases identified by sonography from 2000 to 2010. Two patients had magnetic resonance imaging. Seven of 8 patients (87.5%) presented with abdominal pain; 4 of 8 (50.0%) also had urinary symptoms. All had a retroverted uterus with an elongated anterosuperiorly displaced or poorly visualized cervix on sonography. Magnetic resonance imaging showed similar features, but in both cases, the placental position was misinterpreted because of severe uterine retroversion. Radiologists should be aware of this condition and its imaging features to reduce associated morbidity and mortality.

P2-19-02: Multidisciplinary Treatment of Pregnancy-Associated Breast Cancer

Background: Breast cancer complicates pregnancy in a significant minority of younger breast cancer (BC) patients (pts). Application of standard treatment algorithms is limited by the lack of randomized data to support safety and efficacy. A multidisciplinary approach attempts to maximize treatment efficacy for a pt while minimizing fetal toxicity. We sought to describe contemporary multidisciplinary BC treatment in an academic setting and explore early maternal and fetal outcomes.

Methods: A search of the Dana-Farber/Harvard Cancer Center clinical database was performed to find BC pts self-identified as pregnant at presentation with &gt;2 visits at our institution. Information available within the database along with complementary chart review provided sociodemographic, disease, staging, pregnancy and treatment information as well as short-term maternal and fetal outcomes.

Results: 55 pts diagnosed between 1996–2011 were identified. The median age at diagnosis was 34 years. 25.5% were stage I, 49.1% stage II, 20% stage III, and 5.4% stage IV. 63.6% had hormone receptor positive disease, 36.3% HER2 positive, and 18.1% triple negative. 71% underwent testing for germline BRCA1/2 mutations, with 9% of all pts testing positive. 29% were diagnosed in the first trimester (T1), 29% in T2, and 42% in T3. 89% underwent ultrasound imaging for staging, 49% X-ray imaging, 16.3% MRI, and 0% CT. 67% underwent surgery during pregnancy: 43.2% mastectomy, 48.6% lumpectomy, and 8.1% lumpectomy with subsequent mastectomy during pregnancy. 18.9% underwent surgery in T1, 45.9% in T2, and 37.8% in T3. 27.2% underwent sentinel lymph node biopsy. 51% received chemotherapy (C) during pregnancy: of those, 100% received anthracycline/cyclophosphamide (2-4 cycles), 11% paclitaxel, and 0% trastuzumab. 28.5% received C on a dose-dense schedule, with 25% supported by growth factors (14.2% filgrastim, 10.8% pegfilgrastim). 28.5% received neoadjuvant C. C was initiated during T1 for 0%, T2 for 64.3%, and T3 for 35.7%. Two pts terminated pregnancy in T1, one spontaneously miscarried at 12 weeks (wks), and two are currently in the third trimester of pregnancy; therefore, a total of 50 pts had delivered at the time of this analysis. The median time of delivery was 36 wks. 50% delivered prior to 37 wks and were considered preterm; of those, 76% were inductions or Caesarian sections planned to facilitate cancer therapy. Only 12% delivered prior to 34 wks. For the 25 infants for whom Apgar scores were available, 76% had scores of ≥ 8 at delivery, and 100% had scores of ≥ 8 at 5 minutes. For the 25 infants for whom birth weights were available, the median birth weight was 6lbs 1oz. Only 4 were less than 5lbs at the time of delivery. A total of 4 fetal abnormalities were noted: cleft palate (2), club foot (1), and ventricular septal defect (1).

Conclusions: Within a multidisciplinary academic center, treatment of pregnancy-associated BC using contemporary treatment algorithms, including taxane chemotherapy, growth factor support, and sentinel lymph node biopsy, has been pursued without significant adverse effect on fetal outcomes when compared to other published series. A considerable number of preterm deliveries have been observed. Further data collection is ongoing for confirmation of initial observations.

Citation Information: Cancer Res 2011;71(24 Suppl):Abstract nr P2-19-02.

Discovery and management of diaphragmatic hernia related to abandoned epicardial pacemaker wires in a pregnant woman with {S,L,L} transposition of the great arteries

Epicardial pacemaker leads placed during childhood are often not removed when transvenous systems are placed later in life. The risk of complications related to retained pacemaker leads and generators is not clear but is generally considered low. We report the case of a 23-year-old pregnant woman who presented with left upper quadrant pain at 20 weeks gestation. The patient was born with {S,L,L} transposition of the great arteries and had high-grade conduction disease in infancy compelling epicardial pacemaker placement. A standard transvenous pacemaker was placed at age 9 years, without removal of the epicardial system. The patient's abdominal pain was attributed to herniation of abdominal contents through a diaphragmatic defect at the site of the abandoned epicardial pacing wire. Her pain improved spontaneously but worsened later in pregnancy leading to repair of the diaphragmatic hernia via anterolateral thoracotomy at 30 weeks gestation. The procedure was well tolerated by mother and fetus. At 38 3/7 weeks gestation, the patient underwent uneventful delivery by cesarean section for breech presentation. This case illustrates the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration in the care of women with congenital heart disease.

Comparison of risk of hypertensive complications of pregnancy among women with versus without coarctation of the aorta

Hypertension is a common consequence of coarctation of the aorta. The frequency of hypertensive complications of pregnancy in women with coarctation in the general population is undefined. In this study, we used the 1998 to 2007 Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a nationally representative data set, to identify patients admitted to an acute care hospital for delivery. The frequency of hypertensive complications of pregnancy was compared between women with and without coarctation. Secondary outcomes, including length of stay, hospital charges, Caesarean delivery, and adverse maternal outcomes, were also assessed. There were an estimated 697 deliveries among women with coarctation, compared to 42,601,409 deliveries by women without coarctation. The frequency of hypertensive complications of pregnancy was 24.1 ± 3.3% for women with coarctation compared to 8.0 ± 0.1% for women without coarctation (multivariate odds ratio [OR] 3.6, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.5 to 5.2). Preexisting hypertension complicating pregnancy (10.2 ± 2.5% vs 1.0% ± 0.02%, multivariate OR 10.8, 95% CI 5.9 to 19.8) and pregnancy-induced hypertension (13.9 ± 3.0% vs 7.0% ± 0.1%, multivariate OR 2.1, 95% CI 1.3 to 3.3) were more common in women with coarctation. Women with coarctation were more likely to deliver by Caesarean section (41.6 ± 3.3% vs 26.4% ± 0.2%, multivariate OR 2.0, 95% CI 1.4 to 2.8), have adverse cardiovascular outcomes (4.8 ± 2.2% vs 0.3 ± 0.01%, multivariate OR 16.7, 95% CI 6.7 to 41.5), have longer hospital stays, and incur higher hospital charges (both p values <0.0001) than women without coarctation. In conclusion, women with coarctation are more likely to have hypertensive complications of pregnancy, deliver by Caesarean section, have adverse cardiovascular outcomes, have longer hospitalizations, and incur higher hospital charges than women without coarctation.

Contemporary management of monochorionic diamniotic twins: outcomes and delivery recommendations revisited

OBJECTIVE

We sought to investigate outcomes of contemporaneously managed monochorionic diamniotic (MCDA) twins, stratified by pregnancy complication.

STUDY DESIGN

Four hundred eighteen MCDA pregnancies from 2001 through 2008 were retrospectively reviewed.

RESULTS

There were 236 ongoing pregnancies at 24 weeks' gestation. The likelihood of progressing from 24 weeks to 2 live births was 98.7% in uncomplicated pregnancies, 89.7% with twin-twin transfusion syndrome, and 100% with growth discordance, increasing at 32 weeks to 99.5%, 93.8%, and 100%, respectively. The relative risk (RR) of birth <32 weeks was significantly greater in twin-twin transfusion syndrome (RR, 4.1; 95% confidence interval, 2.7-6.1) and growth discordant (RR, 2.1; 95% confidence interval, 1.8-3.8) pregnancies than in uncomplicated pregnancies (P < .0001).

CONCLUSION

This represents one of the largest cohorts of MCDA twins. The risk of third-trimester fetal loss was low. The likelihood of both intrauterine fetal demise and preterm birth were greater in complicated pregnancies. In the absence of a clinical indication for delivery, these data do not support elective preterm delivery for prevention of intrauterine fetal demise in uncomplicated MCDA twins.

Obstetric Complications of Fibroids

The effect of uterine fibroids on fecundity and pregnancy outcome is difficult to determine with any degree of accuracy; this is due, in large part, to the lack of adequate large clinical trials. In general, the literature tends to underestimate the prevalence of fibroids in pregnancy and overestimate the complications that are attributed to them. In contrast to popular opinion, most fibroids do not exhibit a significant change in volume during pregnancy, although those that do increase in size tend to do so primarily in the first trimester. Although most pregnancies are unaffected by the presence of uterine fibroids, large submucosal and retro-placental fibroids seem to impart a greater risk for complications, including pain (degeneration), vaginal bleeding, placental abruption, IUGR, and preterm labor and birth. Preconception myomectomy to improve reproductive outcome can be considered on an individual basis, but likely has a place only in women who have recurrent pregnancy loss, large submucosal fibroids, and no other identifiable cause for recurrent miscarriage. Antepartum myomectomy should be reserved for women who have subserosal or pedunculated fibroids and intractable fibroid pain that are unresponsive to medical therapy and who are in the first or second trimester of pregnancy. Myomectomy at the time of cesarean delivery is associated with significant morbidity (hemorrhage) and should be pursued with caution and only in select patients.

Pregnancy Outcomes in Women With Congenital Heart Disease

Background— Pregnant women with congenital heart disease are at increased risk for cardiac and neonatal complications, yet risk factors for adverse outcomes are not fully defined.

Methods and Results— Between January 1998 and September 2004, 90 pregnancies at age 27.7±6.1 years were followed in 53 women with congenital heart disease. Spontaneous abortions occurred in 11 pregnancies at 10.8±3.7 weeks, and 7 underwent elective pregnancy termination. There were no maternal deaths. Primary maternal cardiac events complicated 19.4% of ongoing pregnancies, with pulmonary edema in 16.7% and sustained arrhythmias in 2.8%. Univariate risk factors included prior history of heart failure (odds ratio [OR], 15.5), NYHA functional class ≥2 (OR, 5.4), and decreased subpulmonary ventricular ejection fraction (OR, 7.7). Independent predictors were decreased subpulmonary ventricular ejection fraction and/or severe pulmonary regurgitation (OR, 9.0) and smoking history (OR, 27.2). Adverse neonatal outcomes occurred in 27.8% of ongoing pregnancies and included preterm delivery (20.8%), small for gestational age (8.3%), respiratory distress syndrome (8.3%), intraventricular hemorrhage (1.4%), intrauterine fetal demise (2.8%), and neonatal death (1.4%). A subaortic ventricular outflow tract gradient >30 mm Hg independently predicted an adverse neonatal outcome (OR, 7.5). Cardiac risk assessment was improved by including decreased subpulmonary ventricular systolic function and/or severe pulmonary regurgitation (OR, 10.3) in a previously proposed risk index developed in pregnant women with acquired and congenital heart disease.

Conclusions— Maternal cardiac and neonatal complication rates are considerable in pregnant women with congenital heart disease. Patients with impaired subpulmonary ventricular systolic function and/or severe pulmonary regurgitation are at increased risk for adverse cardiac outcomes.

A comparison of MRI and laparoscopy in detecting pelvic structures in cases of vaginal agenesis

OBJECTIVE

To determine whether laparoscopy improves detection of uterine structures over MRI in cases of vaginal agenesis.

DESIGN

Prospective case series.

SETTING

Ambulatory pediatric gynecology clinic in a tertiary care children's hospital.

PARTICIPANTS

Subjects with vaginal agenesis who had an MRI to detect uterine structures.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

A chart review identified subjects with vaginal agenesis who had an MRI to assess müllerian structures. The MRI findings were correlated with physical exam, presenting symptoms, and operative findings. We assessed degree of agreement between laparoscopy and MRI in patients both with and without pelvic pain to determine sensitivity and specificity of MRI in predicting uterine structures confirmed on laparoscopy.

RESULTS

Twenty-two subjects with vaginal agenesis were identified and 14 had both an MRI and laparoscopic evaluation. MRI successfully predicted uterine anomalies in six cases (43%) and lack of uterine structures in one case (8%). MRI diagnosis did not correlate with laparoscopic findings in the remaining seven cases (50%). Among subjects presenting with no complaints of pelvic pain (n = 6), three had negative MR imaging but positive laparoscopy. Using laparoscopy as a gold standard, MRI had a sensitivity of 53% for accurately detecting uterine anomalies confirmed on laparoscopy.

CONCLUSION

Laparoscopy improves detection of uterine structures over MRI alone in women with vaginal agenesis.

Calcium channel blockers as tocolytics

This article reviews the clinical and basic science investigations regarding the safety and efficacy of calcium channel blockers as tocolytic agents. The authors reviewed the English language literature on the pharmacology and clinical applications of calcium antagonists in obstetrics. A MEDLINE (1966-2000) search was performed with the terms "calcium channel blockers," "randomized controlled trial," "preterm labor," "calcium antagonist," "tocolysis," and "nifedipine." References from these data sources were then used to find additional studies. Animal data and clinical trials in humans were included. The safety of these agents was researched in published data from the nonobstetric as well as obstetric literature. The calcium channel blockers most commonly used as tocolytics are nifedipine and nicardipine. These agents act to inhibit calcium influx across cell membranes, thereby decreasing tone in the smooth muscle of the vasculature. They act as profound vasodilatory agents and have minimal effect on the cardiac conduction system. Numerous randomized clinical trials have shown them to be as effective as beta-mimetics and magnesium in achieving tocolysis. When used for tocolysis, calcium antagonists have fewer maternal side effects than other tocolytics and have no adverse effect on fetal outcome.

Cervical hydrosonography in pregnancy to assess cervical length by transabdominal ultrasound

BACKGROUND

Some women's cervices cannot be evaluated because they are obscured by obesity or vertex-presenting fetuses. Measuring cervical length in these cases is difficult or impossible.

TECHNIQUE

We hypothesized that the problem of obscured cervices on transabdominal ultrasound could be resolved by introducing sterile water into the vagina, creating a hydroacoustic window between the vaginal lumen and the cervix. Women with unmeasurable cervices on transabdominal ultrasound had repeat studies after introduction of 60 mL of sterile water into their vaginas, and cervical length measurements taken were compared with those made on transvaginal scans.

EXPERIENCE

Six pregnant women were studied (four singleton, one twin, and one triplet pregnancy). In all cases, previously unidentifiable cervices were seen adequately. No complications were noted. Statistical analysis (kappa 0.66) suggested good correlation between transabdominal cervical hydrosonography and transvaginal measurements of cervical length.

CONCLUSION

Introducing water into the vagina at transabdominal ultrasound can make an obscured cervix visible and measurable.

Post-term induction of labor revisited

Post-term pregnancy (longer than 42 weeks or 294 days) occurs in approximately 10% of all singleton gestations. The adverse outcomes of post-term pregnancy include a substantial increase in perinatal mortality and morbidity. ACOG currently recommends induction of labor for low-risk pregnancy during the 43rd week of gestation. However, that recommendation dates from 1989. Recent reports mandate reconsideration of the management of post-term pregnancy, including reinterpretation of the statistical risk of stillbirth in post-term pregnancies using ongoing (undelivered) rather than delivered pregnancies as the denominator, which shows a far higher risk to post-term fetuses than believed. Recent data also suggest that the risk of cesarean delivery after induction of labor at term is lower than reported, possibly because of improvements in methods for cervical ripening. Those findings provide rationale for earlier labor induction in low-risk pregnancies.

Pelvic pain

Pelvic pain is a common symptom in the adolescent female. Acute pain may represent a life-threatening situation and torsion, ectopic pregnancy, and PID must be considered. For the young patient who presents with chronic pelvic pain, a multidisciplinary approach is essential to facilitate diagnosis and management. Whenever possible, organic disease such as endometriosis, adhesions, and obstructive malformations should be identified and treated as indicated. Developing a treatment team, recognizing psychosocial and environmental factors, and encouraging long-term relationships are critical components in the care of these patients and in the prevention of recurrent symptom formation and future disability.

Primary prevention of gynecologic cancers

A shift from treatment to prevention of the three major gynecologic cancers is overdue. The traditional approach to cervical, endometrial, and ovarian cancers has been secondary or tertiary prevention--early detection and treatment or mitigation of damage, respectively. We reviewed the literature on these cancers to identify strategies for primary prevention. Cervical cancer behaves as a sexually transmitted disease. As with other such diseases, barrier and spermicidal contraceptives lower the risk of cervical cancer; the risk reduction approximates 50%. Combination oral contraceptives help prevent both endometrial and epithelial ovarian cancers. The risk of endometrial cancer among former oral contraceptive users is reduced by about 50% and that of ovarian cancer by about 30% to 60%. Weight control confers strong protection against endometrial cancer. Breast-feeding and tubal sterilization also appear to protect against ovarian cancer. Although women have a range of practical, effective measures available to reduce their risk of these cancers, few are aware of them. Without this information, women cannot make fully informed decisions about their health.