Evaluation Tools for Assessing Autonomy of Surgical Residents in the Operating Room and Factors Influencing Access to Autonomy: A Systematic Literature Review

BACKGROUND

Surgical residents in France lack a clear pedagogical framework for achieving autonomy in the operating room. The progressive acquisition of surgical autonomy is a determining factor in the confidence of operators for their future independent practice. Currently, there is no autonomy scale commonly used in Europe. The objective of this study is to identify existing tools for quantifying the autonomy of residents and the factors that influence it.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a qualitative systematic review following the recommendations of the Systematic Review Without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) guidelines. Publications were extracted from the MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and PSYCINFO databases. All publications without date restrictions up to July 2022 were identified.

RESULTS

Among the 231 identified publications, 21 met the inclusion criteria. Seventeen publications used a graded autonomy assessment tool by the student and/or the teacher, while 4 used evaluations by an observing third party. We found 8 different autonomy scales, with the Zwisch Scale representing 57.1% of the cases. Factors influencing autonomy were diverse, including the work context, experience, and gender of the resident and their teacher.

DISCUSSION

We found heterogeneity in the tools used to "measure" the autonomy of a resident in the operating room. The SIMPL tool or the Zwisch Scale appear to be the most frequently used tools. The relationship between autonomy, performance, confidence, and knowledge may require multidimensional tools that encompass various areas of competence, but this could make their daily application more challenging. The factors influencing autonomy are numerous; and understanding them would improve teaching in the operating room. There is a significant lack of data on surgical autonomy in France, as well as a lack of evaluation in the field of gynecology-obstetrics worldwide.

Prevention of Rhesus-D Alloimmunization in the First Trimester of Pregnancy: Economic Analysis of Three Management Strategies

Anti-D alloimmunization in the first trimester of pregnancy has long been the subject of prevention with anti-D immunoglobulins during events at risk of fetomaternal hemorrhage. Although the efficacy of preventing anti-D alloimmunization by an injection of immunoglobulin at 28 weeks of gestation (WG) is obvious, the literature provides little evidence of the effectiveness before 12+6 WG and several countries have modified their recommendations. In the presumed absence of a difference in alloimmunization risk between early and late prevention, our objective was to evaluate and compare the cost of treatment for 3 alloimmunization prevention strategies in France, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. This was a single-center retrospective study. Our target population included all women who received anti-D immunoglobulins (Rhophylac) in the first trimester of pregnancy before 12+6 WG at Nantes University Hospital in 2018 (N = 356). Within the target population, 2 other populations were constituted based on British (N = 145) and Dutch (N = 142) clinical practice guidelines (CPG). These 3 populations were analyzed for the comparative cost of treatment for prevention from a health system perspective. The average cost of Rhophylac alloimmunization prevention for 1 episode was €117.8 from a health system perspective. The total cost attributed to prevention in 2018 at Nantes University Hospital (N = 356) was €41,931.4 according to this perspective. If the UK CPG or Dutch CPG had been applied to the Nantes target population, a saving of around 60% would have been achieved. At the national level, the cost according to the health system perspective specifically attributable to induced abortion (N estimated = 26,916) could represent a total cost of €3,170,704. This study highlighted the high cost of the French prevention strategy in the first trimester of pregnancy compared with British or Dutch strategies. The modification of our practices would allow substantial financial savings to the French health system but would also avoid the nonrecommended exposure to a blood product at this term, would allow a faster medical management and a relief of the care system.

Adrenal Gland Necrosis in Pregnancy: How to Manage? Case Series at Nantes University Hospital and Literature Review

Adrenal necrosis is a rare but serious cause of abdominal pain of thrombotic origin during pregnancy. There is often a delay in diagnosis and treatment. The objective was to specify the clinical and paraclinical signs suggestive of adrenal necrosis, making it possible to improve the delay in diagnostic. The secondary objective was to establish a multidisciplinary protocol regarding management. This is a case report of pregnant women with a radiological diagnosis of adrenal gland necrosis. In parallel, we carried out a systematic review in the same period. We studied these patients' clinical, biological and radiological data. We included eight patients with a computed tomography scan diagnosis of adrenal necrosis and fifteen articles in the literature describing twenty-four cases. All the patients presented with the same symptoms. The treatment was based on curative anticoagulation. The diagnosis of adrenal gland necrosis is worth suggesting in view of the array of sudden morphine-resistant abdominal pain associated with a biological inflammatory syndrome. The diagnosis is based on the computed tomography scan. Three to six months of curative anticoagulation is recommended as well as a thrombophilia and endocrinological assessment to rule out adrenal insufficiency.

[Tocolysis during External Cephalic Version (ECV): A retrospective before/after study in a type III maternity hospital]

OBJECTIVE

On January 2020, the French College of Gynecologists and Obstetricians (CNGOF) issued new Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) "Breech Presentation". Since then, it is recommended to use a tocolytic agent to improve the success rate of External Cephalic Version (ECV). The aim of this study, one year after these CPG, is to compare ECV without (before CPG) and with (after CPG) tocolysis in a type III maternity hospital. We intend to assess its effects on immediate success rate of ECV and obstetrical and neonatal outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This is a single-center retrospective study conducted in Nantes University Hospital. We collected patient characteristics, immediate success rate, and maternal and neonatal outcomes at delivery of all ECV over two periods: the first one during 2019 (before CPG) and the second one from June 2020 to June 2021 (after CPG).

RESULTS

We included 253 patients: 126 in the first period and 127 in the second period. Immediate success rate of ECV was significantly higher since the use of tocolysis: 38.6 % (period 2) vs 23.8 % (period 1) (P=0.011). However, there was not significant difference found for cephalic presentation at birth, mode of delivery or obstetrical and neonatal outcomes.

CONCLUSION

The immediate success rate is significantly improved with the widespread use of tocolysis during ECV, with no change in obstetrical and neonatal outcomes.

Étude MUMI-19 (mothers undergoing mental impact of COVID-19 pandemic) : évaluation de l’impact de l’isolement maternel dans le post-partum immédiat sur le taux de dépression du post-partum en période de pandémie COVID-19

Introduction

La pandémie de COVID-19 a bouleversé le monde en imposant des mesures sanitaires inédites, notamment en suites de couches. Cette étude a pour but d’évaluer l’impact de l’isolement maternel dans le post-partum immédiat sur le taux de dépression du post-partum (DPP) dans une maternité de type 3.

Méthodes

Nous avons mené une étude de cohorte prospective de type exposés–non exposés, entre le 22 avril et le 29 octobre 2020, en utilisant des questionnaires anonymes sur 265 parturientes (129 pendant le confinement et 135 en dehors). L’échelle postnatale d’Edimbourg (EPDS) a été utilisée. Nous avons utilisé un modèle de régression logistique univariée pour l’association entre les facteurs de risques et la DPP.

Résultats

Il n’y avait pas de différence entre les deux groupes concernant la DPP évaluée par un score > 10,5 à l’EPDS à j30 et/ou j60 (23,1 % vs 29,3 %, p = 0,661). En revanche, dans le groupe « confiné », le score à j3 était plus élevé (31 % vs 17,8 %, p = 0,015) et les conjoints davantage impactés sur le plan psychologique (48,3 % vs 10,5 %, p < 0,001). La parité ?1 était un facteur protecteur de DPP (OR = 0,2, IC95 % [0,1–0,6], p = 0,003). Les antécédents de violence psychologiques (OR = 6,4, IC95 % [1,1–37,6], p = 0,04), la présence d’un stress durant la grossesse (OR = 4,5, IC95 % [1,6–12,6], p = 0,004) et le vécu traumatique de l’accouchement (OR = 5,1, IC95 % [1,4–17,8], p = 0,012) étaient associés à un sur-risque de DPP.

Conclusion

L’isolement maternel dans le post-partum immédiat est associé à un sur-risque de symptômes sévères de blues du post-partum.

Management of external cephalic version in France: A national practice survey

INTRODUCTION

The breech presentation represents 4,7% of deliveries at term. There is a method of external cephalic version (ECV) performed from 36 weeks of gestation. French guidelines for the clinical practice of ECV were published in 2020.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the national practices of ECV in French maternity units, especially on the use of tocolysis, 1 year after publication of the French clinical recommendations guidelines by the French national college of obstetricians and gynecologists (CNGOF).

METHODS

Data self-reported for this national descriptive study were collected from March to May 2021 by an online questionnaire distributed to all French maternities. The 25 items of the questionnaire collected information of maternity units, the general practice of ECV, use or not of tocolysis for ECV attempt and the relevance of a prospective study.

RESULTS

Of the 517 French maternity units, 150 (29%) responded to the online survey.  95,3% systematically performed ECV. A Kleihauer test was routinely performed in 71 units (49.7%). A tocolysis was associated with ECV attempt in 52.4% of cases. The drugs used were intravenous atosiban (30,7%), mainly in levels 2b and 3 maternity units, intravenous salbutamol (24%), other mode of administration of salbutamol (14,7%) and oral nifedipine (22,6%) mainly in levels 1 and 2a maternity units. Adverse effects were described in 20%, mainly with the use of salbutamol (73,3%).

CONCLUSIONS

52.4% of the French maternity units surveyed used tocolysis for the ECV attempt, although it is systematically recommended. The choice of tocolytic drug differed according to the maternity units.

[Pelvic fracture and urogenital dysfunction in women: A literature review]

INTRODUCTION

The consequences of a pelvic fracture on pelvic statics and sexuality in women are often overlooked and relegated to secondary care.

OBJECTIVE

To carry out a state of knowledge on disorders of pelvic statics and sexuality in patients with a history of pelvic fracture: incidence, risk factors, management.

METHODS

Literature review on the Pubmed, Medline, Embase and Cochrane database using the following keywords and MeSH terms: pelvis floor dysfunction, urinary dysfunction, sexual dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, in association with the terms pelvic fracture, pelvic trauma.

RESULTS

Among the 270 initial articles, 21 were selected. Finally, one retrospective cohort study has evaluated the impact of pelvic fracture on the onset of a genital prolapse, 2 comparative retrospective studies and one prospective study focused on the impact of pelvic fracture on lower urinary tract symptoms. One comprehensive review studied pelvic fracture and sexuality outcomes. The incidence of prolapse following pelvic fracture could not be identified. The incidence of lower urinary tract symptoms varies between 21 and 67% with a significant difference for urinary urgency without leakage (P=0.016) and SUI (P=0.004). The incidence of sexual disorders varies between 21 and 62% with a predominance of dyspareunia. The mechanism of the trauma is thought to be a contributing factor, as well as the damage of the pubic symphysis (RR 4.8 95% CI 2.0-11.2).

CONCLUSION

The evaluation of urogenital, sexual and anorectal dysfunctions following trauma to the pelvis has so far been little explored in the literature. Future prospective studies are to be carried out to improve patient care.

HE4 in the Diagnostic Approach of Endometrial Cancer in Patients with Postmenopausal Bleeding, the METRODEC Protocol: Protocol for a Multicenter Prospective Study

Background: Endometrial cancer is the most common pelvic gynecological cancer in France. The most frequent symptom is post-menopausal bleeding and is one of the primary reasons for consultation in gynecological emergencies. The treatment is very codified and consists of a surgical intervention for anatomopathological analysis. The latter is frequently reassuring. These interventions are often performed in mild situations and there is currently no element to be sufficiently reassuring to avoid surgery. This study aims to explore the sensitivity of an innovative marker: Human Epididymis 4 (HE4) in the diagnosis approach of endometrial cancer in case of postmenopausal bleedings. Methods: This is a prospective multicenter diagnostic study with three centers involved. Inclusion criteria are any patient with post-menopausal bleeding who is to undergo hysteroscopy, endometrial biopsy, or endometrial resection. In accordance with the recommendations for the management of post-menopausal bleedings, the medical conduct consists of performing a clinical examination, an ultrasound and, in general, even in case of paraclinical examination reassuring, an anatomopathological analysis. This pathological analysis can be obtained in several ways: biopsy, hysteroscopy-curettage (which is the most frequently performed surgery), and hysterectomy. Our protocol consists of taking a blood sample from each woman who will undergo one of the interventions mentioned above. The dosage of HE4 and CA125 requires the withdrawal of an additional heparinized tube during the preoperative assessment usually performed. This research is therefore classified as non-interventional. The primary outcome is to evaluate the sensitivity of the HE4 marker in patients with postmenopausal bleeding in the diagnosis of endometrial cancer. The secondary outcomes are other parameters (specificity, VPP, VPN) of HE4, Evaluating the diagnostic capabilities of the CA125 marker alone and associated with HE4, as well as those of the REM and REM-B algorithms. We aim to include 100 patients over a period of one year in three centers. Discussion: As of now, there is no biological marker used in routine practice in the diagnosis of endometrial cancer. The ultimate goal of HE4 in endometrial cancer is to avoid surgery for those who are identified as non-sick. This study is the precursor of others for use in routine practice, HE4 would represent a great help to diagnosis if our study demonstrates it as reliable in the management of these patients and avoid many unnecessary and risky surgeries.

[Prolonged and post-term pregnancies: a regional survey of French clinical practices]

OBJECTIVE

To assess professional practices of prolonged and post-term pregnancies in accordance to French guidelines. The secondary outcome was to evaluate neonatal and maternal morbidity during prolonged pregnancy.

METHODS

Descriptive retrospective study was conducted in the 23 maternity hospitals of perinatal network between September and December 2018. The inclusion criterion was a birth term of≥41⁺⁰ weeks of gestation. Primary outcome was conformity to the national guidelines based on 10 items (conformity score≥80%). The secondary outcome was a composite criteria of neonatal morbidity (ventilation, resuscitation and/or Apgar score<7 at 5minutes) and maternal morbidity (obstetrical anal sphincter injury and/or postpartum hemorrhage).

RESULTS

A total of 596 patients were included and the conformity was obtained in 65.3% of cases. Inconsistent criteria were amniotic fluid evaluation by the deepest vertical pocket (46.8%, n=279), and information of patients on prolonged pregnancy management (14.8%, n=88). Adverse perinatal outcome occurred for 40 newborns (6.0%) with shoulder dystocia (OR=5.2; CI 95%: 1.4-19.7) as a principal risk factor. Maternal morbidity outcome occurred in 70 cases (10.6%) primarily with increase in labour duration (OR=1.1 by hour of labour; CI 95%: 1.02-1.24) and prior caesarian section (OR=4.4; CI 95%: 1.8-11.0).

CONCLUSIONS

Management of prolonged and post-term pregnancies matching with the French national guidelines. Points of improvement are amniotic fluid evaluation at term by a single deepest vertical pocket, and the information about induction of labour at term.

Assessment of a multiprofessional training programme by in situ simulation in the maternity units of the Pays de Loire regional perinatal network

INTRODUCTION

Initially dispensed in specialized simulation centers, simulation training has recently begun to take place directly in healthcare facilities, that is, in situ. The objective of this study is to assess the effect of training by in situ simulation in obstetrics.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The training program, dispensed over a 2-day period, took place in maternity units of the members of the Pays de la Loire perinatal network, Réseau Sécurité Naissance (Network Safety Birth). All participants received a learner satisfaction questionnaire to complete (5-point Likert-like scales). Then, at least 6 months later, each maternity ward received a general questionnaire to assess the effect of the training, as well as a second questionnaire specific to each institution, about the areas for improvement proposed by the teaching team after debriefings.

RESULTS

The 14 establishments included in our study returned 375 satisfaction questionnaires. In all, 91.1 % were very satisfied and reported that the training met their expectations, and 99.7 % thought the program would have an impact on their professional practice. More than 94 % of the learners wanted more simulation sessions. Among the 14 facilities, 9 (64.3 %) returned their evaluation questionnaires. In 44.4 % of cases, they reported improvement in team cohesion and in team communication, while the others reported these elements remained stable. All maternity units reported that the training had a positive impact on their team, and that they would be interested in new training program with in situ simulation.

DISCUSSION

Most participants clearly appreciated this training. In situ simulation training also led to the identification of areas for improvements, many of them accomplished, through the drafting of protocols or material modifications aimed at improving staff practices and therefore global patient care. There are many ways by which these training programs can be made sustainable, including the development of a new training program of in situ simulation or the creation of onsite simulation sessions on demand or by the professionals at each institution.

CONCLUSION

This survey demonstrated the enthusiasm of healthcare professionals about in situ simulation. Moreover, overall improvement in team communication and cohesion was reported in the medium term (evaluation at more than 6 months). The interest of continuing these training sessions appears undeniable.

Methods of detection and prevention of preterm labour and the PAMG-1 detection test: a review

OBJECTIVES

Preterm labour is the leading cause of hospitalization during pregnancy. In France, it results in more than 60,000 births before 37 weeks of gestation every year. Recent studies suggest that detection of placental α-microglobulin-1 (PAMG-1) in vaginal secretions among women presenting symptoms of preterm labour with intact membranes has good predictive value for the onset of spontaneous preterm delivery within 7 days. The test is especially interesting, in that the repetition of antenatal corticosteroids for foetal lung maturation is no longer recommended in France and the effect of the initial administration is most beneficial in the 24 h to 7 days afterwards.

METHODS

We included all studies listed in PubMed and clinicaltrials.gov with the terms "PAMG-1" and either "preterm labor" or "preterm labour", while excluding all studies on the subject of "rupture of the membranes" from 2000 through 2017. Ten studies were thus included.

RESULTS

In women who had both the PAMG-1 and foetal fibronectin test, the PAMG-1 test was statistically superior to the measurement of cervical length for positive predictive value (p<0.0074), negative predictive value (p=0.0169) and specificity (p<0.001) for the prediction of spontaneous preterm delivery within 7 days.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of PAMG-1 may make it possible to target the women at risk with a shortened cervix on ultrasound (<25 mm) those with an imminent preterm delivery and therefore to adapt management, especially the administration of antenatal corticosteroid therapy.

Endometrial cancer: A systematic review of HE4, REM and REM-B

INTRODUCTION

Endometrial cancer, one of the most frequent pelvic gynecologic cancer worldwide, currently has no biomarker used to assess it in daily practice. Nonetheless, human epididymis 4 (HE4) appears to offer the best prospects, alone or combined with CA125. This study sought to systematically review the work on HE4 from the first publications in 2008 until now.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Two independent reviewers searched the PubMed database with the terms "HE4″, "endometrial cancer", "endometrial carcinoma", and HE4 or human epididymis protein 4. Only original clinical research articles and meta-analyses, published in English, were included, with literature reviews and case reports excluded.

RESULTS

Studies were organized into 3 categories: diagnosis, prognosis, and recurrence/survival. Overall we identified 117 articles dealing with HE4 and endometrial cancer and selected 52 relevant texts: 46 articles, 6 meta-analyses. The sensitivity of HE4 for the diagnosis of endometrial cancer varied from 44.2% to 91% and its specificity from 65.5 to 100%, versus 24.1 to 71.5% and from 65.6 to 100% for CA125. Two meta-analyses of their combination produced areas under the curve (AUC): 0.83 and 0.86. Two available algorithms - the REM (risk of endometrial malignancy) and REM-B (risk of endometrial malignancy associated with BMI) scores - require more study. HE4 is also strongly associated with prognostic factors such as myometrial invasion, tumor grade, FIGO stage, and lymph node involvement. It also predicts recurrence and can serve as a monitoring tool, as reported by a 2018 meta-analysis with a hazard ratio of 2.15 (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

HE4, alone or associated with CA125, appears to be an important tool in the management of endometrial cancer, initially for diagnosis, but for assessing prognosis and survival. Other prospective and multicenter studies are necessary to confirm these hopes and be able to recommend the use of HE4 in regular practice.

Angiographic findings and outcomes after embolization of patients with suspected postabortion uterine arteriovenous fistula

INTRODUCTION

The purpose of this study is to assess the angiographic incidence of uterine arteriovenous fistula (UAVF) in women referred for a high ultrasonographic suspicion in a postabortion setting and to evaluate the safety, efficacy and impact on further fertility of uterine artery embolization (UAE) in this indication.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A monocentric retrospective study of 31patients managed by uterine artery embolization for suspected UAVF after spontaneous or induced first trimester abortion. The diagnosis of UAVF was confirmed when an early venous drainage was identified on the angiogram. Technical success was defined as complete exclusion of the vascular lesion. Clinical success was defined as the absence of bleeding during the clinical follow-up and during the surgery in case of hysteroscopic resection. Information about further fertility was gathered by phone calls to the patients.

RESULTS

The mean age of the patients was 30.8 (±6.0) years. The diagnosis of UAVF was angiographically confirmed in 6 patients (19.4 %). Angiographic findings of retained product of conception (RPOC) with varying degrees of vascularity were observed in remaining patients. The technical success rate of UAE was 100 %, mostly through a proximal and bilateral embolization using a resorbable agent (27/31 patients, 87.1 %). The clinical success rate of UAE was 100 % in the group treated by a single UAE. We did not notice any bleeding during the surgery in the group of patients who needed a further hysteroscopic resection. 14 patients led at least one subsequent pregnancy to term without any difficulty.

CONCLUSION

UAVF is a rare condition. We supposed it may constitute the ultimate stage in the natural history of the retained products of conception with "marked vascularity". UAE seems to be an effective and safe first-line treatment.

National survey of surgical practices: Sacropexy in France in 2019

INTRODUCTION AND HYPOTHESIS

Sacropexy is a reference surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse in women. The great variability in surgical techniques for this procedure is a source of bias that complicates analysis of the results of trials assessing it. Using the French guidelines issued in 2016 by the SCGP, AFU, SIFUD-PP, and CNGOF as a reference, we sought to inventory the surgical practices of the surgeons who perform these procedures.

METHODS

In November 2018, a questionnaire about the technical aspects of this procedure was distributed by email to the French physicians performing it. It was distributed to members of several professional societies (CNGOF, SCGP, and SIFUD) and to gynecologists practicing in clinics owned by the ELSAN group.

RESULTS

Of the 273 responders, 92% reported that they perform most operations laparoscopically. Overall, 83% of gynecologic surgeons used polypropylene prostheses (mesh); 38% routinely placed a posterior mesh, while the rest did so only in cases of clinical rectocele with anorectal symptoms. A concomitant hysterectomy was performed by 51% of respondents when the uterus was bulky and/or associated with substantial uterine prolapse. Finally, half the surgeons suggested the placement of a suburethral sling for women with stress urinary incontinence.

CONCLUSIONS

Although practices are largely consistent with the most recent guidelines, surgical techniques vary widely between surgeons, both in France and internationally.

The value of a vaginal sample for detecting PAMG-1 (Partosure®) in women with a threatened preterm delivery (the MAPOSURE Study): protocol for a multicenter prospective study

BACKGROUND

Threatened preterm delivery (TPD) is the leading cause of inpatient admissions during pregnancy. The ability to predict the risk of imminent preterm delivery is thus a major priority in obstetrics. The aim of our study is to assess the diagnostic performance of the test to detect the placental alpha microglobulin 1 (PAMG-1) for the prediction of delivery within 7 days in women with TPD.

METHODS

This is a prospective multicenter diagnostic study. Inclusion criteria are singleton pregnancy, gestational age between 24 + 0 and 33 + 6 weeks inclusive, cervical measurement 25 mm or less assessed by transvaginal ultrasound (with or without uterine contractions), clinically intact membranes and cervical dilatation < 3 cm assessed by digital examination. According to the current protocol, when a women presents with TPD and the diagnosis is confirmed by transvaginal ultrasound, a vaginal sample to test for genital infection is performed. At the same time, the midwife will perform the PartoSure® test. To perform this analysis, a sample of cervicovaginal secretions is taken with the vaginal swab furnished in the test kit. The primary outcome is the specificity of the PartoSure® test of women who gave birth more than 7 days after their hospitalization for TPD. The secondary outcomes are the sensitivity, PPV, and NPV of the Partosure® test and the factors associated with false positives (with a univariate logistic regression model). Starting with the hypothesis of an anticipated specificity of 89%, if we want to estimate this specificity with a confidence interval of ± 5%, we will require 151 women who do not give birth within 7 days. We therefore decided to include 400 women over a period of two years to have a larger number of events (deliveries within 7 days).

DISCUSSION

The different tests already used such as fetal fibronectin and phIGFBP-1, are not sufficiently relevant to recommend their use in daily practice. The different studies of PAMG-1 described above thus provide support for the use of this substance, tested by PartoSure®. Nonetheless, other larger studies are necessary to validate its use in daily practice and our study could answer this question.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03401255 (January 15, 2018).

[Pelvic and perineal pain after genital prolapse: A literature review]

INTRODUCTION

Pelvic and perineal pain after genital prolapse surgery is a serious and frequent post-operative complication which diagnosis and therapeutic management can be complex.

MATERIALS ET METHODS

A literature review was carried out on the Pubmed database using the following words and MeSH : genital prolapse, pain, dyspareunia, genital prolapse and pain, genital prolapse and dyspareunia, genital prolapse and surgery, pain and surgery.

RESULTS

Among the 133 articles found, 74 were selected. Post-operative chronic pelvic pain persisting more than 3 months after surgery according to the International Association for the Study of Pain. It can be nociceptive, neuropathic or dysfunctional. Its diagnosis is mainly clinical. Its incidence is estimated between 1% and 50% and the risk factors are young age, the presence of comorbidities, history of prolapse surgery, severe prolapse, preoperative pain, invasive surgical approach, simultaneous placement of several meshes, less operator experience, increased operative time and early post-operative pain. The vaginal approach can cause a change in compliance and vaginal length as well as injury to the pudendal, sciatic and obturator nerves and in some cases lead to myofascial pelvic pain syndrome, whereas the laparoscopic approach can lead to parietal nerve damage. Therapeutic management is multidisciplinary and complex.

CONCLUSION

Pelvic pain after genital prolapse surgery is still obscure to this day.

[Impact of hysterectomy on urinary incontinence: A systematic review]

INTRODUCTION

The impact of a hysterectomy on urinary incontinence is a controversial subject in the literature.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the prevalence and incidence of urinary incontinence after a hysterectomy as well as associated risk factors such as the type of hysterectomy, the surgical approach, urodynamic criteria and uterine disease.

STUDY DESIGN

We conducted a systematic review in Pubmed database with the following keywords and MeSH term: hysterectomy, urinary incontinence.

RESULTS

A total of 1340 articles were retrieved, 42 articles were selected for the final text analysis. The results of the different studies were heterogeneous. Hysterectomy seemed to increase the rate of sphincter deficiency (VLPP<60mmH₂O for 20% of cases versus 1,7% without hysterectomy, P=0.003). The vaginal route could increase the incidence of UI with OR of 2.3 (95%CI 1.0-5.2). Subtotal hysterectomy appears to increase UI with a 0,74 RR for total hysterectomy (95%CI 0.58-0.94). A radical hysterectomy with nerve conservation would preserve urinary functions, unlike pelvic radiotherapy, which is responsible for irreversible nerve damage by demyelination and bladder fibrosis.

[CNGOF-SFT Expert Report and Guidelines for Smoking Management during Pregnancy-Short Text]

OBJECTIVES

To provide up-to-date evidence-based guidelines for the management of smoking cessation during pregnancy.

METHODS

Systematic review of the international literature. We identified papers published between January 2003 and April 2019 in Cochrane PubMed, and Embase databases with predefined keywords. All reports published in French and English relevant to the areas of focus were included and classified according the level of evidence ranging from 1 (highest) to 4 (lowest). The strength of the recommendations was classified according to the Haute Autorité de santé, France (ranging from A, highest to C, lowest).

RESULTS

"Counseling", involving globally all kind of non-pharmacological interventions, has a modest benefit on smoking cessation, birth weight and prematurity. Moderate physical activity did not show a significant effect on smoking cessation. The systematic use of feedback by measuring the expired air carbon monoxide concentration do not influence smoking abstinence but it may be used in establishing a therapeutic alliance. The use of self-help interventions and health education are recommended in helping pregnant smokers quit. The prescription of nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) may be offered to any pregnant woman who has failed stopping smoking without medication This prescription can be initiated by the health care professional taking care of the pregnant woman in early pregnancy. There is no scientific evidence to propose the electronic cigarette for smoking cessation to pregnant smokers; it is recommended to provide the same advice and to use methods that have already been evaluated. The use of waterpipe (shisha/narghile) during pregnancy is associated with decreased fetal growth. It is recommended not to use waterpipe during pregnancy. Breastfeeding is possible in smokers, but less often initiated by them. Although its benefit for the child's development is not demonstrated to date, breastfeeding allows the mother to reduce or stop smoking. The risk of postpartum relapse is high (up to 82% at 1 year). The main factors associated with postpartum abstinence are breastfeeding, not having a smoker at home, and having no symptoms of postpartum depression.

CONCLUSIONS

Smoking during pregnancy concerns more than hundred thousand women and their children per year in France. It is a major public health burden. Health care professionals should be mobilized for reducing or even eradicating it.

[Epidemiology and Risk Factors of Smoking During Pregnancy (Excluding Coaddictions) - CNGOF-SFT Expert Report and Guidelines for Smoking Management during Pregnancy]

World tobacco consumption during pregnancy is estimated to be 1.7% (95% CI: 0.0-4.5). Among the 50 European countries evaluated, France ranks 7th among the countries most affected by active smoking during pregnancy. In the 2016 National Perinatal Survey, 30.0% of women reported active smoking before they started their pregnancy and 16.6% still smoked in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. There are also disparities in consumption between regions in France (24.0% of pregnant women with active smoking in the 3rd trimester of pregnancy in Brittany against 9.4% in the Paris region and 5.2% in the French departments and French overseas territories). A young age, a low level of education, a low socioeconomic level, primiparity, a geographical origin of mainland France, unemployment, a smoking partner, no partner or a depression are risk factors for smoking during pregnancy. Multiparity is a risk factor for failure of smoking cessation during pregnancy. For health professionals in contact with women of childbearing age, it is recommended to identify a tobacco consumption in women or their partners before pregnancy or as early as possible during pregnancy.

[Consequences of Active Cigarette Smoking in Pregnancy - CNGOF-SFT Expert Report and Guidelines on the management of smoking during pregnancy]

OBJECTIVE

To synthesize knowledge on the consequences of active smoking in pregnancy.

METHODS

The MedLine database, the Cochrane Library and French and foreign guidelines from 1999 to 2019 have been consulted.

RESULTS

Active maternal smoking is associated with an increased risk of first trimester complications such as early miscarriage and ectopic pregnancy with a dose-effect relationship between smoking and those risks. Active cigarette smoking during pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of certain type of birth defects, placenta abruptio, placenta previa, stillbirth and cesarean delivery. Active maternal smoking is associated with a reduced risk of pre-eclampsia. Children born to mothers who smoke are more at risk of premature birth and low birth weight with a dose-effect relationship for those two risks.

CONCLUSION

Apart from preeclampsia which is reduced in case of active maternal smoking, perinatal morbidity is increased among women who smoke during their pregnancy.

Smoking and smoking cessation in pregnancy. Synthesis of a systematic review

OBJECTIVES

To provide up-to-date evidence-based guidelines for the management of smoking cessation during pregnancy and the post-partum period.

STUDY DESIGN

A systematic review of the international literature was undertaken between January 2003 and April 2019. MEDLINE, EMBASE databases and the Cochrane library were searched for a range of predefined key words. All relevant reports in English and French were classified according to their level of evidence ranging from 1(highest) to 4(lowest). The strength of each recommendation was classified according to the Haute Autorité de Santé (French National Authority for Health) ranging from A (highest) to C (lowest).

RESULTS

"Counselling", including all types of non-pharmacological interventions, has a moderate benefit on smoking cessation, birth weight and prematurity. The systematic use of measuring expired air CO concentration does not influence smoking abstinence, however, it may be useful in assessing smoked tobacco exposure prior to and after quitting. The use of self-help therapies and health education are recommended in helping pregnant smokers quit and should be advised by healthcare professionals. Nicotine replacement therapies (NRT) may be prescribed to pregnant women who have failed to stop smoking after trying non-pharmacological interventions. Different modes of delivery and dosages can be used in optimizing their efficacy. Smoking in the postpartum period is essential to consider. The same treatment options as during pregnancy can be used.

CONCLUSION

Smoking during pregnancy concerns more than a hundred thousand women each year in France resulting in a major public health burden. Healthcare professionals should be mobilised to employ a range of methods to reduce or even eradicate it.

Ropivacaine 75 mg versus placebo in perineal infiltration for analgesic efficacy at mid- and long-term for episiotomy repair in postpartum women - the ROPISIO study: a two-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials

Background

Perineal pain due to episiotomy is commonly reported and can be severe enough to disturb the mother–infant dyad during the postpartum period. Its incidence at day 7 postpartum varies from 63% to 74%. Recent studies have investigated the analgesic efficacy of perineal infiltration of ropivacaine after episiotomy but have only focused on the immediate postpartum period (at 24 and 48 h after birth). Large, adequately powered, multicenter, randomized controlled trials are required to evaluate the impact of ropivacaine infiltration on perineal pain and mid- and long-term quality of life before the widespread use of ropivacaine to prevent perineal pain after episiotomy can be recommended.

Methods/design

The ROPISIO study is a two-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial being conducted in La Roche sur Yon and Nantes, France. It will involve 272 women with vaginal singleton delivery and mediolateral episiotomy at term (≥ 37 weeks). Perineal infiltration (ropivacaine 75 mg or placebo) will be administrated just after vaginal birth and before episiotomy repair. The primary outcome will be the analgesic efficacy at day 7 postpartum (midterm), defined by the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) strictly superior to 3/10 on the perineal repair area. Secondary outcomes will be the analgesic efficacy (NPRS) and the impact of pain on daily behavior, on the quality of life (36-item Short Form Health Survey), on the occurrence of symptoms of postpartum depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale), and on sexual health (Female Sexual Function Index) at 3 and 6 months (long-term) using validated online questionnaires. This study will have 90% power to show approximately 30% relative risk reduction in the incidence of perineal pain at day 7, from 70.0% to 50.0%.

Discussion

Ropivacaine is a promising candidate drug, inexpensive, and easy to administer, and it would be suitable to include in the routine management of deliveries in labor ward. This study will investigate if perineal ropivacaine infiltration just after birth can reduce mid- and long-term postpartum pain and increase quality of life in women with mediolateral episiotomy.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03084549. Registered on 14 April 2017.

Rupture of Non-communicating Rudimentary Horn of Uterus at 12 Weeks' Gestation

The rudimentary horn of uterus is an extremely rare malformation and potentially serious obstetric entity, threatening maternal and fetal outcome. Diagnostic sonography of early pregnancy in a non-communicating rudimentary horn is difficult but important. We report a case of ruptured non-communicating rudimentary horn with unicornuate uterus at 12 weeks’ gestation, where diagnosis is made before surgery. Excision of the rudimentary horn and ipsilateral salpingectomy (to prevent a further ectopic tubal gestation), conserving the ovary, is the recommended surgical procedure for patients desiring to maintain their fertility potential. The subsequent obstetric prognosis is reassuring. Diagnostic imaging examinations of the reproductive system after this treatment showed no negative effect from surgery on subsequent fertility and there was no reported case of uterine rupture during subsequent pregnancy in the remaining unicornuate uterus after rudimentary horn excision. Future pregnancies will require extremely close monitoring and a caesarean section is highly recommended.

Perinatal outcomes of intrahepatic cholestasis during pregnancy: An 8-year case-control study

INTRODUCTION

Previous studies of fetal effects have suggested that intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy is associated with a higher rate of adverse neonatal outcomes including preterm birth, neonatal respiratory distress syndrome, meconium-stained amniotic fluid, neonatal intensive care unit admission, and stillbirth. The objective was to compare the neonatal and maternal consequences in pregnancies affected by intrahepatic cholestasis and normal pregnancies.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This case-control study compares pregnancies affected by intrahepatic cholestasis (pruritus and bile acid ≥ 10 μmol/L) with low-risk pregnancies managed between December 2006 and December 2014 at a French university hospital center.

RESULTS

There were 83 (59.3%) cases of mild cholestasis (10≤ BA ≤39 μmol/L), 46 (32.8%) of moderate cholestasis (40≤ BA ≤99 μmol/L), and 11 (7.9%) of severe cholestasis (BA ≥100 μmol/L). No in utero fetal deaths occurred in the 140 women with cholestasis or the 560 controls analyzed. The rate of respiratory distress syndrome was higher in neonates of women with intrahepatic cholestasis (17.1% vs. 4.6%, P<0.001; crude OR 4.46 (CI95% 2.49-8.03)). This risk was also significant after adjustment for gestational age at birth and mode of delivery, adjusted OR 2.56 (CI95%1.26-5.18). The postpartum hemorrhage rate was twice as high among the case mothers (25% versus 14.1% for controls, P = 0.002).

CONCLUSION

After adjustment on the confounding factors we found a higher rate of respiratory distress syndrome and neonatal morbidity among neonates of the cholestasis group.

Effectiveness of nitrous oxide in external cephalic version on success rate: A randomized controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Approximately 4% of singleton pregnancies at term are in breech presentation. External cephalic version (ECV) can reduce the risks of noncephalic birth and cesarean delivery, but this maneuver can be painful. Our aim was to analyze the effect of administering inhaled nitrous oxide for analgesia on the ECV success rate.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

This prospective, randomized, single-blind, controlled trial included women with singleton pregnancies in breech presentation at term who were referred for ECV in a tertiary care center. Women were assigned according to a balanced (1:1) restricted randomization design to inhale either nitrous oxide (N₂ O) in a 50:50 mix with oxygen or medical air during the procedure. The main outcomes reported are the ECV success rate, degree of pain, adverse event rate, and women's satisfaction.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01948115.

RESULTS

The study included 150 women (nitrous oxide group: n = 74; medical air: n = 76). Inhaled nitrous oxide was not associated with a higher ECV success rate than medical air (24.3 vs 19.7%, P = 0.51). Among parous women (n = 34 in each group), the ECV success rate appeared higher in the nitrous oxide group, respectively 47.1% (n = 16) vs 23.5% (n = 8) (P = 0.042). Neither the median pain level nor adverse event rates differed significantly in women with inhaled nitrous oxide compared with medical air.

CONCLUSIONS

Use of an equimolar mixture of oxygen and nitrous oxide during ECV appears safe. Although it does not seem to change the overall success rate, it may increase success in parous women.

[Validation of the cervical length education and review program in a population of French residents in obstetrics and gynecology]

OBJECTIVES

Evaluate an educational program based on "CLEAR" (Cervical Length Education and Review) in the teaching of measuring sonographic cervical length to residents in gynecology and obstetrics.

METHODS

This is a prospective cohort study in a tertiary care center between May and November 2017. The residents were asked to collect 5 cervical length images from patients suspected with threatened preterm labor. A theoretical session on cervix measurement image criteria based on "CLEAR" program was taught to all residents. Then, they had to collect 5 new cervical length images. All the images were reviewed by two experienced reviewers, blinded to the resident and whether the image was obtained before or after the theoretical session and based on 8 criteria.

RESULTS

Ten residents participated to the study. The mean total score CLEAR was significantly higher post-intervention: 6.6±0.9 vs. 4.3±2.1, positive difference of 2.3±2.3 (P<0.001). Improvement was most significant with the junior residents: 3.6 pre vs. 6.5 post-intervention.

CONCLUSION

Educational program based on CLEAR criteria allowed to improve the competence of residents in measuring sonographic cervical length, although this can also be correlated with the progression of residents during the semester. It could be implemented systematically with the aim of CLEAR certification to standardize the teaching of residents in gynecology and obstetrics.

[Uterine preservation or not during prolapse surgery: Review of the literature]

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the impact of hysterectomy in case of genital prolapse on the anatomical and functional results, and on per and post operative complications compared with uterine preservation.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We conducted a review of the Pubmed, Medline, Embase and Cochrane literature using the following terms and MeSH (Medical Subject Headings of the National Library of Medicine): uterine prolapse; genital prolapse; prolapse surgery; vaginal prolapse surgery; abdominal prolapse surgery; hysterectomy; hysteropexy; sacrocolpopexy; surgical meshes; complications; sexuality; neoplasia; urinary; incontinence; cancer.

RESULTS

Among the 168 abstracts studied, 63 publications were retained. Whatever performance of hysterectomy or not, anatomical and functional results were similar in abdominal surgery (sacrocolpopexy) (OR=2.21 [95% CI: 0.33-14.67]) or vaginal surgery (OR=1.07 [95% CI: 0.38-2.99]). There was no difference in terms of urinary symptoms or sexuality after surgery. Hysterectomy was associated to a higher morbidity (bleeding, prolonged operating time, longer hospital stay), to an increased risk of mesh exposure particularly in case of total hysterectomy (8.6%; 95% CI: 6.3-11).

CONCLUSION

In the absence of evidence of superiority in terms of anatomical and functional outcomes, with an increased rate of complications, concomitant hysterectomy with prolapse surgery should probably not be performed routinely.

Effectiveness of an antenatal maternal supplementation with prebiotics for preventing atopic dermatitis in high-risk children (the PREGRALL study): protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting 10%-15% of children in Europe. There is a need for new primary preventive therapeutic strategies in at-risk populations. Recent research has indicated that atopic diseases are associated with a disrupted gut microbial 'balance' in early life raising the possibility that interventions which yield optimal patterns of microflora could improve host's health. Prebiotics, sugars with immunomodulatory properties that stimulate the diversity of the digestive microbiota, are ideal candidates for such research. So far, most clinical trials have focused on improving infant gut colonisation postnatally. However, prenatal life is a crucial period during which different tolerance mechanisms are put in place. We aim to determine whether antenatal prebiotics supplementation prevents AD in high-risk children.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

This is a randomised, multicentre, double-blind, trial to evaluate the effectiveness of antenatal prebiotic maternal supplementation (galacto-oligosaccharide/inulin) in pregnant women versus placebo on the occurrence of AD at 1 year of age in at-risk children (defined as having a maternal history of atopic disease). Participating women will be randomised to daily ingestion of a prebiotics or placebo (maltodextrin) from 20 weeks' gestation until delivery. The primary outcome is the prevalence of AD at 1 year of age, using the version of the UK Working Party Diagnostic Criteria optimised for preventive studies. Key secondary endpoints are AD severity, quality of life and prebiotics tolerance. The target sample size is 376 women (188 patients per group) which will provide 80% power to detect a 33% reduction of the risk of AD in the verum group (α=0.05). The primary analysis will be based on the intention-to-treat principle.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Results will be presented in peer-reviewed journals and at international conferences. Ethics approval for the study was obtained from the institutional ethical review board of 'Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Ouest-Outre-Mer III' of the University Hospital Centre of Bordeaux (2017/13).

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

NCT03183440; Pre-results.

Management of fetal goiters: 6-year retrospective observational study in three prenatal diagnosis and treatment centers of the Pays De Loire Perinatal Network

Introduction: The incidence of fetal goiters is reported to be around 1 per 40,000 births. The risk of complications is first of all obstetric, directly related to goiter size, but it may also affect longer term fetal and child development, depending on whether the goiter is due to hypo- or hyperthyroidism. Management is multidisciplinary, but not yet consensual and not always optimal by either endocrinologists or obstetricians.Objectives: The principal objective of this retrospective study was to analyze the data that enabled the physicians to assess whether the goiter was hypo- or hyperthyroid and then to analyze the obstetric practices used in the Pays de Loire network to describe in detail the tools used to diagnose and characterize the goiters and the management chosen in these cases. The secondary objectives are to assess, in our small cohort, the effectiveness of the in utero treatments provided, based on the examination of the children at birth and their outcome at 6 months of life, and to suggest a strategy for monitoring these women at risk that takes current guidelines into consideration.Materials and methods: This multicenter retrospective study covers a 6-year period and focused on the prenatal diagnosis centers (CPDPN) of the Pays de Loire perinatal network: in Nantes, Angers, and Le Mans. The network is responsible for around 42,000 births a year, and the study included 17 women, for a prevalence of 1 per 15,000 births.Results: Ten of the 17 fetuses had a hypothyroid goiter, 4 a hyperthyroid goiter, and 3 normal thyroid findings on fetal blood sample (FBS). For four women, these goiters were secondary to fetal dyshormonogenesis, for 9 more to Graves disease with TSH receptor antibodies (TRAb), and for four women to thyrotoxicosis at the start of pregnancy, managed by synthetic antithyroid drugs. Two newborns had severe complications associated with maternal transmission of Graves disease (TRAb positive at birth): one with exophthalmos and one with neonatal tachycardia. The other 14 had normal psychomotor development at 6 months, based on a clinical examination by a pediatric endocrinologist; only one child was lost to follow-up.Conclusion: Together, ultrasound and multidisciplinary expertise (of an endocrinologist and an obstetrician experienced with this disease) remain the best means for avoiding, or otherwise for accurately characterizing fetal goiter. An ultrasound diagnostic score, of the type proposed by Luton et al. in 2009, may make it possible to homogenize practices and thus to defer or delay the - currently too common - performance of invasive FBS procedures, which must remain rare in this management to limit comorbidities. A threshold TRAb value (>5 IU/l) makes it possible to define this group of women as at risk of fetal and neonatal hyperthyroidism and thus requiring close monitoring. The value of prenatal intra-amniotic thyroxine treatment for hypothyroid goiters (including dyshormonogenesis) remains to be demonstrated.

[Definition, epidemiology and risk factors of obstetric anal sphincter injuries: CNGOF Perineal Prevention and Protection in Obstetrics Guidelines]

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this review was to agree on a definition of the obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), to determine the prevalence and risk factors.

METHODS

A comprehensive review of the literature on the obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), establishment of levels of evidence (NP), and grades of recommendation according to the methodology of the recommendations for clinical practice.

RESULTS

To classify obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS), we have used the WHO-RCOG classification, which lists 4 degrees of severity. To designate obstetric anal sphincter injuries, we have used the acronym OASIS, rather than the standard French terms of "complete perineum" and "complicated complete perineum". OASIS with only isolated involvement of the EAS (3a and 3b) appears to have a better functional prognosis than OASIS affecting the IAS or the anorectal mucosa (3c and 4) (LE3). The prevalence of women with ano-rectal symptoms increases with the severity of the OASIS (LE3). In the long term, 35-60% of women who had an OASIS have anal or fecal incontinence (LE3). The prevalence of an OASI in the general population is between 0.25 to 6%. The prevalence of OASIS in primiparous women is between 1.4 and 16% and thus, should be considered more important than among the multiparous women (0.4 to 2.7%). In women with a history of previous OASIS, the risk of occurrence is higher and varies between 5.1 and 10.7% following childbirth. The priority in this context remains the training of childbirth professionals (midwives and obstetricians) to detect these injuries in the delivery room, immediately after the birth. The training and awareness of these practitioners of OASIS diagnosis improves its detection in the delivery room (LE2). Professional experience is associated with better detection of OASIS (LE3) (4). Continuing professional education of obstetrics professionals in the diagnosis and repair of OASIS must be encouraged (Grade C). In the case of second-degree perineal tear, the use of ultrasound in the delivery room improves the diagnosis of OASIS (LE2). Ultrasound decreases the prevalence of symptoms of severe anal incontinence at 1 year (LE2). The diagnosis of OASIS is improved by the use of endo-anal ultrasonography in post-partum (72h-6weeks) (LE2). The principal factors associated with OASIS are nulliparity and instrumental (vaginal operative) delivery; the others are advanced maternal age, history of OASIS, macrosomia, midline episiotomy, posterior cephalic positions, and long labour (LE2). The presence of a perianal lesion (perianal fissure, or anorectal or rectovaginal fistula) is associated with an increased risk of 4th degree lacerations (LE3). Crohn's disease without perianal involvement is not associated with an excess risk of OASIS (LE3). For women with type III genital mutilation, deinfibulation before delivery is associated with a reduction in the risk of OASIS (LE3); in this situation, deinfibulation is recommended before delivery (grade C).

CONCLUSION

It is necessary to use a consensus definition of the OASIS to be able to better detect and treat them.

[Comparison of obstetric prognosis of attempts of breech delivery: Spontaneous labor versus induced labor]

OBJECTIVES

Delivery mode in breech presentation (BP) is often controversial. Spontaneous labor, when vaginal birth seems safe, allows to better estimate uterus contractility, fetus' accommodation to maternal pelvis and optimize monitoring with a partograph. Induced labor in BP was usually contra-indicated. Lack of strong scientific evidence on this matter has permitted a progressive and careful evolution in obstetrical management, with the introduction of induced labor in BP. The aim of our study is to compare vaginal birth rates when labor is induced versus when spontaneous in BP. Maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality parameters were also evaluated.

METHODS

In this retrospective study were included 206 patients carrying fetuses in BP, between June 2012 and June 2017. 182 of them had spontaneous labor and 24 experienced induced labor. Inclusion criteria were singleton pregnancy, BP after 34 weeks of gestation and vaginal delivery authorized by a senior obstetrician. Multiple pregnancy, birth before 34 weeks of gestation, uterine scar, planned caesarian section for BP, intra-uterine fetal death and medical termination of pregnancy were excluded. Induction of labor was performed for medical reason on a favorable cervix.

RESULTS

There was no significant difference in cesarean section rates between the two "induced" and "spontaneous" labor groups in BP (OR=1.69 [CI95%: 0.71-4.04]). We observed no difference between the two groups in neither perineum trauma nor post-partum hemorrhage. No difference was found between the two groups in rates of Apgar score<7 5minutes after birth, neonatal transfer, fetal trauma and pH at birth.

CONCLUSION

Despite our small population, it seems acceptable to propose induced labor for medical reason if cervix is favorable in BP if a protocol is available stating acceptability criteria for vaginal birth. It can avoid unnecessary caesarian section and allow better obstetrical outcome. It would be interesting to study fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality criteria in induced labor versus planned cesarean section when patients could be eligible for induced labor in BP.

Angiogenic factors sFlt-1 and PlGF in preeclampsia: Prediction of risk and prognosis in a high-risk obstetric population

OBJECTIVES

Despite its simple definition, preeclampsia can have variable and atypical clinical presentations, an unpredictable course, and potential adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. No single test currently predicts risk or prognosis adequately. Scientific advances suggest that an angiogenic imbalance is involved in its pathophysiology. The objective of this study was to investigate the use of sFlt-1, PlGF, and their ratio in predicting preeclampsia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In a single-center prospective observational study, we measured the angiogenic markers sFlt-1 and PlGF and calculated the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio in patients at risk of preeclampsia at 20 to 37 weeks of gestation. The main outcomes were the occurrence of preeclampsia and the interval before its onset.

RESULTS

Of the 67 at risk patients included, 8 (12%) developed preeclampsia. For a sFlt-1/PlGF ratio ≥85, the specificity was 93%. The ratio was significantly higher (ratio=104±30) in women with an onset time less than 5 weeks than in those with later preeclampsia (ratio=10±2), P<0.001.

CONCLUSION

In a high-risk population, angiogenic markers appear to be an interesting aid in predicting the onset of preeclampsia with high specificity and in estimating time to onset. However, due to small number of cases of PE, more studies are needed before recommendations to use these markers in daily practice.

French family physician experience concerning the outpatient care for women suffering from nausea and vomiting in pregnancy

OBJECTIVE

To explore thoughts and attitudes among French family physicians on the outpatient care for women suffering from nausea and vomiting in pregnancy (NVP).

DESIGN AND SETTING

A retrospective study was conducted among family physicians who had taken care of pregnant women who gave birth in our hospital in 1 year.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Fifty-nine French family physicians responded to a questionnaire assessing their experience about outpatient care for women suffering from NVP. Analysis were done according to the physicians' age, as the annual demographics data analysis from the French Medical Council.

RESULTS

More than 89% of family physicians asked systematically the question concerning NVP (53/59), which were estimated as a frequent symptom (n=44, 74.6%). The intensity of NVP was assessed as mild in 28.8% (n=17), moderate in 62.7% (n=37), severe in 6.8% (n=4) and unbearable in 1.7% (n=1). Physicians younger than 40 years questionned less frequently about NVP compared to those older than 40 or older than 60 years (66.7% vs. 90.5% vs. 95.5%, respectively; P=0.04). Severe and unbearable NVP were significantly estimated more frequent among younger physicians (33.3% vs. 6.8%; P=0.03). Treatments (sick leave, diet, drugs, homeopathy, acupuncture or psychotherapy) did not differ between groups.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Outpatient care for women suffering from NVP may vary according to the physician. French family physicians played a key role in NVP. Younger family physician considered NVP as a frequent symptom which needed active management in severe forms.

[Acute herpesviridae hepatitis during pregnancy: A review]

Viral hepatitis are well defined during pregnancy, including hepatitis A, B, C, D or E. In contrast, viral hepatitis called non-alphabetic, like viruses Herpesviridae family hepatitis [cytomegalovirus (CMV), varicella-zoster virus (VZV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) or herpes simplex virus (HSV)] are rarely described. The aim of this article is to make a focus on the care of these viral herpesviridae hepatitis during pregnancy. Herpes hepatitis is more common during pregnancy, with a neonatal risk at peripartum period. VZV infection can cause disease to the fetus, with possible vertical transmission, and induce congenital or neonatal varicella. While EBV infection during pregnancy seems benign, the CMV is a high risk of birth defects. The management of these patients therefore depends on the gestational age, but especially the type of virus involved. The diagnosis is therefore essential to adapt treatment and obstetrical care.