Browsing by Author "Petro, Gregory"

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    A review of intrauterine device placement during caesarean section at level two facilities in the Metro West, Cape Town
    (2020) Schutte, Marcelle; Patel, Malika; Petro, Gregory
    Study rationale In the Western Cape there are many intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) inserted during caesarean section (C/S). Little is known about the long-term outcomes in the Metro West area. Objective To assess placement of IUDs at C/S and describe follow-up, with a view to compile best practice guidelines for insertion and follow-up in our clinic setting. Method A retrospective descriptive audit of clinical records was performed of all women who received an IUD at C/S between January and June 2018 at Mowbray Maternity Hospital (MMH) and New Somerset Hospital (NSH) in Cape Town. Results There were 2310 and 1376 C/S performed at MMH and NSH respectively. The IUD insertion rate was 17.4% (n=402) at MMH and 14.3% (n=197) at NSH. Almost two third of insertions were performed at the time of emergency caesarean section (59.1%; n=276). The majority of women experienced no immediate complications (84.4%). Only 77 women attended follow-up. The continuation rate at follow-up was 71.6%. The overall expulsion rate in hospital and at follow-up was 3%. Strings were visible in 53.2% of patients. An ultrasound was performed in 67.5 % (52/77) of patients. The IUD removal rate at follow-up was 24.7% (19/77). Discussion The poor follow-up rate is concerning, and measures must be taken to address this. The continuation rate of 71.6% is lower than expected but may have been biased by the low follow-up rate. Continuation rates improved with the experience of inserters which highlights the importance of training and supervision. Conclusion The immediate postpartum period may be the only opportunity to provide long acting reversable contraception to some women. In our study population follow-up rates are poor and therefore conclusions are difficult to accurately gauge. Measures must be taken to improve follow-up.
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    An audit of caesarean sections performed for suspected fetal distress at Mowbray Maternity Hospital in 2018
    (2022) Moreri-Ntshabele, Badani; Fawcus, Susan; Kadwa, K; Petro, Gregory
    Background The cardiotocograph (CTG) is used for fetal monitoring antenatally and in labour, to detect potential fetal hypoxia and thus prevent perinatal morbidity and mortality. An abnormal CTG influences decisions clinicians make in terms of timing and mode of delivery, as the type of abnormality may warrant immediate delivery by caesarean section (CS). However caesarean section rates are increasing worldwide and in South Africa, and ‘fetal distress' is one of the common indications. The increased CS rate also increases the risk of maternal morbidity and mortality. At Mowbray Maternity Hospital, weekly review meetings show that ‘pathological CTG' and ‘non reassuring CTG' accounted for the majority of emergency CS. Therefore, this study was undertaken to see if ‘fetal distress' is being over-diagnosed leading to unnecessary CS, or to affirm that the CS are correctly indicated for this diagnosis. Hence an investigation of caesarean sections done for ‘fetal distress in 2018 was performed in order to audit emergency CS performed at MMH for abnormal CTG tracings. Methods A retrospective observational study with a comparative component was performed. The PASS 2022 software was used to calculate the sample size. The calculation was made for proportions of agreement using a kappa statistic which was calculated to be 114 cases. The study population was derived from the institutional theatre register, in which patients, who had an emergency CS for an abnormal CTG or ‘fetal distress', between 01 January 2018 and 31 March 2018 were included. The CTGs were interpreted by the two obstetric specialistts (experts) and this was compared with the original interpretation made by the attending doctor. In addition, the independent experts assessed the appropriateness of the decision for CS. Data was also obtained on co-existing obstetric conditions, and perinatal and maternal outcomes. Ethics approval for the study was attained from the University of Cape Town Human Research Ethics Committee (UCT HREC) and facility approval from MMH. Results Ninety cases were identified from the study period and analysed. The attending doctor assessed 22 (24.4%) CTGs as suspicious and 68 (75.6%) as pathological, whereas the experts assessed 7 (7.8%) as normal, 22 (24.4%) as suspicious and 61 (67.8%) as pathological. There was overall agreement in CTG interpretation between the experts and the attendant doctor for 61 cases (67.8%). The reliability of this agreement was measured using Cohen's Kappa and was 0.247 (CI 0.153-0.341). This is a ‘fair' level of agreement. A further analysis showed that there was a higher proportion of agreement with pathological CTGs and a lower proportion of agreement for suspicious CTGs which accounted for 52 (57.8%) and 9 (10%) cases, respectively. A review of the medical records showed that 69 (77%) of patients had one or more co-existing obstetric condition such as prolonged pregnancy, hypertensive disorders, prolonged rupture of membranes and meconium-stained liquor etc. When considering these obstetric factors as well as the CTG, the experts assessed 16 women (17.8%) to have had unnecessary caesarean sections. In terms of neonatal outcomes, the mean five-minute APGAR was 8, and only 3 babies had a five-minute APGAR which was less than 7. Twelve babies (13.3%) babies were admitted to the neonatal unit and of those, 4 (4.4%) were admitted for low Apgar scores. The commonest maternal complication was PPH which affected 8.9% of the patients. Conclusion The inter-observer agreement in CTG interpretation at MMH was fair, which is comparable to other studies done in the world, with agreement on the indication for CS of 82.2%. The agreement in CTG interpretation was high with pathological CTGs and poor with suspicious CTGs. A second opinion for CS for abnormal CTG may reduce the number of unnecessary CS especially for suspicious CTGs. A normal CTG tends to affirm good fetal wellbeing, however an abnormal CTG does not always mean that there is fetal compromise, therefore the clinical condition must be evaluated together with the CTG to make an appropriate decision with regards to timing and mode of delivery.
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    An audit of uterotonic use for the prophylaxis and treatment of haemorrhage at caesarean delivery at Mowbray Maternity Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
    (2018) Pheto, Peloentle; Fawcus, Susan R; Petro, Gregory
    Obstetric Haemorrhage is the leading cause of maternal death globally (1) and the third leading cause of death in South Africa (2). Concern has been expressed in South Africa that bleeding associated with caesarean delivery (CD) accounts for one-third of haemorrhage deaths and this has increased over the last ten years (3). The underlying cause of bleeding at CD is commonly uterine atony, and the majority of the CDs were performed at district hospitals (2,3,4). The Saving Mothers Reports describe inadequate use and documentation of uterotonics to prevent or treat bleeding at CD and have promoted the development of a standardised national protocol. While there is international agreement on the dosage and administration route for oxytocin to prevent OH after vaginal delivery, there is lack of consensus or standardisation of protocols for its prophylactic use at CD, with marked differences between country and facility protocols. Anaesthetists are concerned about the hypotensive effect of high dose intravenous boluses of oxytocin, particularly in women under spinal anaesthesia, and some maternal mortalities in the United Kingdom have been partially attributed to this (5). Hence it is important to balance safety with efficacy by promoting the lowest effective doses to minimise side effects but enable uterine contraction. Aim: The aim of this study was to perform a clinical audit of the documented use of uterotonics at CD at MMH to see how it adheres to the national protocol; and as a secondary outcome to measure the rate of haemorrhage at CD. Methods: This was a retrospective folder review of women who delivered by CD at MMH during the months of June and July 2017, including both elective and emergency operations. Information was obtained from women’s folders kept in the medical records department, using especially designed data extraction sheets. Data analysis was by simple descriptive statistics. Results: Three hundred and nineteen (319) folders from the study period were interrogated. This included 239 emergency CDs (75%) and 80 elective CDs (25%). They were all performed by obstetric registrars or medical officers with 89% being done under spinal anesthesia. Prophylactic oxytocin boluses at CD were given in 302 (94.7%) women but there was no documentation of its use in 17 (5.3%). One of the 302 women had a high dose IV bolus (7.5 IU) but the remainder had boluses below 5 IU. There were 75 women (23.5%) patients who received the national recommended dose of 2.5 IU IVI while 227 (71.1%) received alternative low dose boluses which were all less than 5 IU. The dose most commonly given was 3 IU; to 169 patients (53%) as a single or divided dose. There was wide variation in the dosage of prophylactic infusions with only 18 (5.6%) patients receiving the recommended intraoperative 7.5 IU infusion, while 221 (66.5%) received alternate infusion doses. Only 49 (15%) were discharged from theatre recovery to the postnatal ward with a prophylactic infusion running. In total 65 (20.4%) of the women received a 20 IU oxytocin infusion but it was unclear whether this was for prophylaxis or treatment. No intramuscular doses of oxytocin or syntometrine were given for prophylaxis. Among the 319 CDs, 13 (4.1%) had documented blood loss over 1000 ml and 24 (7.5%) had uterine atony reported by the surgeon. The most common treatment was 20 IU infusion followed by misoprostol (13 women), syntometrine (three women) and tranexamic acid (one woman). Additional surgical measures required were B-Lynch compression suture for one, and haemostatic sutures for two. There were no re-look laparotomies or hysterectomies during the study period and there were no major morbidity or mortalities from either CD or from anaesthetic complications. Discussion: Low dose bolus oxytocin and infusion is widely used at CD post fetal delivery at MMH, although the dose of 3 IU was most commonly used in contrast to the recommended 2.5 IU in the national protocol. There was variation in the usage and dosage of prophylactic oxytocin infusion. The rate of PPH in the subjects was low (4.1%) with the low dose prophylactic regimens used, suggesting that they were effective, although this may also have been contributed to by the skill of the surgeons. Consensus is needed among anaesthetists and standardisation of protocols on oxytocin prophylaxis at CD, particularly for training doctors working in district hospitals. Repeating this audit in district hospitals where there are higher CD case fatality rates would be important to shed light on practice in such facilities and improve healthcare delivery.
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    Birth order, delivery and concordance of mother-to-child transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus in twin pregnancies
    (2013) Cloete, Alrese; Petro, Gregory
    Despite two decades of studies of mother to child transmission of HIV, very little data is available regarding vertical transmission in twin pregnancies. There is uncertainty whether discordance of HIV transmission exists between the first born (Twin A) and second born (Twin B) infant. Primary aim of the study was to examine if there is any discordance of HIV transmission in twin pregnancies when comparing Twin A to Twin B. Secondary objectives were to identify possible additional risk factors for HIV transmission in twin pregnancies. We assessed antenatal care, antiretroviral therapy, birth order, delivery route and feeding options as risk factors for mother to child transmission of HIV in twin pregnancies.
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    Clinical outcomes and women's experiences before and after the introduction of mifepristone into second-trimester medical abortion services in South Africa
    (Public Library of Science, 2016) Constant, Deborah; Harries, Jane; Malaba, Thokozile; Myer, Landon; Patel, Malika; Petro, Gregory; Grossman, Daniel
    Objective To document clinical outcomes and women's experiences following the introduction of mifepristone into South African public sector second-trimester medical abortion services, and compare with historic cohorts receiving misoprostol-only. METHODS: Repeated cross-sectional observational studies documented service delivery and experiences of women undergoing second-trimester medical abortion in public sector hospitals in the Western Cape, South Africa. Women recruited to the study in 2008 (n = 84) and 2010 (n = 58) received misoprostol only. Those recruited in 2014 (n = 208) received mifepristone and misoprostol. Consenting women were interviewed during hospitalization by study fieldworkers with respect to socio-demographic information, reproductive history, and their experiences with the abortion. Clinical details were extracted from medical charts following discharge. Telephone follow-up interviews to record delayed complications were conducted 2-4 weeks after discharge for the 2014 cohort. RESULTS: The 2014 cohort received 200 mg mifepristone, which was self-administered 24-48 hours prior to admission. For all cohorts, following hospital admission, initial misoprostol doses were generally administered vaginally: 800 mcg in the 2014 cohort and 600 mcg in the earlier cohorts. Women received subsequent doses of misoprostol 400 mcg orally every 3-4 hours until fetal expulsion. Thereafter, uterine evacuation of placental tissue was performed as needed. With one exception, all women in all cohorts expelled the fetus. Median time-to-fetal expulsion was reduced to 8.0 hours from 14.5 hours (p<0.001) in the mifepristone compared to the 2010 misoprostol-only cohort (time of fetal expulsion was not recorded in 2008). Uterine evacuation of placental tissue using curettage or vacuum aspiration was more often performed (76% vs. 58%, p<0.001) for those receiving mifepristone; major complication rates were unchanged. Hospitalization duration and extreme pain levels were reduced (p<0.001), but side effects of medication were similar or more common for the mifepristone cohort. Overall satisfaction remained unchanged (95% vs. 91%), while other acceptability measures were higher (p<0.001) for the mifepristone compared to the misoprostol-only cohorts. CONCLUSION: The introduction of a combined mifepristone-misoprostol regimen into public sector second-trimester medical abortion services in South Africa has been successful with shorter time-to-abortion events, less extreme pain and greater acceptability for women. High rates of uterine evacuation for placental tissue need to be addressed.
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    Effects of a short interpregnancy interval on pregnancy outcomes
    (2017) Kisuule, Castro; van der Spuy, Zephne Margaret; Steyn, Petrus S; Petro, Gregory
    The interval between one pregnancy and the next may affect the outcome of pregnancy. Both short and long interpregnancy intervals (IPI) have been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes and most of these occur with a short IPI. Our primary objective was to determine the effects of a short IPI (< 24 months) compared with a long IPI (≥ 24 months) on the subsequent potentially viable pregnancy in women who received antenatal care (ANC) in the secondary level hospitals in the Metro-West area of Cape Town. The secondary objective was to review possible determinants of a short IPI. Methods: This was a pilot descriptive cross-sectional study conducted between 1st September 2016 and 28th November 2016. One hundred and thirty women who were Para 2 were recruited to the study in the early postnatal period. Sixty women were recruited into the short IPI group (<24 months) and 70 to the long IPI group (≥24months). Questionnaire-based interviews were conducted and data were entered using Microsoft Excel 2012 spread sheets. Statistical analysis was done using Stata® Edition 13. Results: We analysed the data for both short and long IPI and found that there were no significant differences in preterm birth, abruptio placentae, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) and low birth weight. There was however a significant difference in the number of small-for-gestational- age (SGA) babies. In the short IPI group, 19 women (31.7%) had SGA babies in comparison to the long IPI group where 7 women (10%) had SGA babies( p = 0.015). Of the 130 respondents, 79 women (60.8%) had unintended pregnancies, 44 (73%) with a short IPI vs 35 (50%) with a long IPI (p = 0.017). Women with a long IPI were more likely to have a different partner for the subsequent pregnancy (p= 0.002). Women in relationships longer than 5 years were more likely to have a long IPI (p = 0.049). Thirty-eight women (63.3%) with a short IPI would have preferred the pregnancy later compared to 11 women (15.7%) with a long IPI (p<0.001). There were 27 (38%) women who supported themselves financially in the long IPI group compared with 8 (13%) with a short IPI (p=0.001). A long IPI was associated with more formal employment and professional careers compared to a short IPI (p= 0.002). In the long IPI group 10 women (7%) had professional positions compared with none in the short IPI group (p=0.002). There were no significant differences in breastfeeding duration, contraception use and knowledge, social habits, previous obstetric history, educational status or emotional support between the two groups. Conclusion: In our study, of all the pregnancy outcomes investigated, small-for-gestational age was the only clinical outcome significantly associated with a short IPI. There were differences in pregnancy intendedness, duration of relationships, financial support and employment between the two groups. The majority of women with a short IPI (63.3%) would have preferred the index pregnancy to have occurred later.
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    Incidence and nature of complications post primary repair of Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury (OASI): Retrospective chart review
    (2019) Paulsen, Carrie; Brouard, Kendall; Petro, Gregory
    Background. A multitude of data exists regarding global incidence of OASI as well as its contributing factors and complications. Little to no data exists regarding the incidence of OASI or its complications and the nature of these complications within South Africa. Objective. To describe the rate and nature of complications of OASI that occur within 6 weeks following primary repair of an OASI, followed up at the GSH perineal clinic. Secondarily, to investigate the incidence of OASI and follow up rate post primary repair Methods. This was a retrospective chart review. Participants were identified from theatre record books between January 2014 and December 2015. The charts of those that attended the perineal clinic follow up were reviewed and complications and possible associated risk factors were identified from the clinical notes. Primary aims were to identify the incidence and nature of complications seen in this population as well as possible related risk factors. The secondary aims were to determine the incidence of OASI and follow up rate for complication following primary OASI repair. Results. The mean age of participants was 25.85 years with a mean body mass index of 25.15kg/m2 . The mean birthweight seen was 3382.05 grams. Constipation (10.87%), pain with defaecation (11.96%) and anal incontinence (10.87%) were the most frequently reported complications. Wound infection was found on examination in 3.26% of participants and wound dehiscence was seen in 6.67%. Incidence of OASI in this study group was 8.64 per 1000 vaginal deliveries. The follow up rate of these participants was 26.20%. A total of 374 OASI were repaired within this region during the study period. Only 97 of these attended follow up, for which 93 folders were available to be included in analysis Conclusion. The Incidence of OASI in this Western Cape region is within the range seen worldwide but the proportion of complications seem to be less than global data suggests despite adverse conditions, theatre delays and the fact that repairs were mostly performed by specialists in training. It was not possible to identify any relationship with possible associated factors. There is a very poor follow up rate within this community which needs to be explored and systems need to be put in place to ensure all participants are given the opportunity of follow up.
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    Maternal and fetal outcomes of induction of labour using oral misoprostol at New Somerset Hospital
    (2018) Ndovie, Lughano; Petro, Gregory
    Introduction: Induction of labour is commonly performed in clinical practice. Increasing rates of induction of labour worldwide has led to debate on whether elective induction improves the outcomes or simply leads to increased complications and healthcare costs. Maternal and neonatal complications and increased caesarean section (CS) rates associated with induction of labour are related to a variety of factors influencing the methods of induction. Misoprostol has been the drug of choice for induction of labour in developing countries for almost a decade. Different misoprostol regimens are used for induction of labour in different health facilities. New Somerset Hospital uses the standard protocol for induction of labour using misoprostol that the Western Cape Government adopted. This protocol has however not been audited. The main objective of the study was to determine the maternal and fetal outcomes of inductions of labour performed at New Somerset Hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective study conducted at New Somerset Hospital. We reviewed a random sample of medical records of patients who underwent induction of labour from 01 January 2014 to 31 December 2014. Ethics committee approval was granted by the Human Research Ethics Committee of the Faculty of Health Sciences of UCT. A total of 88 folders were sampled from 1029 women who had induction of labour. Results: There were a total of 6514 deliveries in 2014 of which 1029 had induction of labour, giving an induction rate of 15.8%. A total of 86 patients were included in the study. The mean age of the patients was 28.9 years (SD±6.586) with an age range of 16 to 44 years. The average gestational age at the time of induction of labour was 39.5 weeks with a range 35 to 42.6 weeks and 14.0% of the patients were HIV positive. The three main indications of induction of labour were hypertension in pregnancy (40.7%), prolonged pregnancy (27.9%) and pre-labour rupture of membranes (8.1%). Overall, 50 patients (58.1%) had vaginal delivery and 36 patients (41.9%) had caesarean delivery. There was a significant association between mode of delivery and time to delivery. Patients who delivered within 24 hours of commencement of induction of labour were more likely to have had a vaginal delivery (p = 0.005). The three main indications for caesarean delivery were fetal heart rate changes (n=30; 72.0%) followed by failed induction of labour (n=9; 21.0%) and cephalopelvic disproportion (n=3; 7.0 %). In terms of maternal outcomes, 2 patients (2.3%) had hyperstimulation of the uterus, 6 patients (7.0%) had postpartum hemorrhage, 8 patients (9.3%) had vaginal tears and 5 patients (5.9%) had an episiotomy performed during delivery. The mean birth weight was 3262.1g (SD±503.77) with a range of 1925 to 4515 grams. At five minutes the means Apgar score was 9.8(SD ± 0.62) with range of 6 to 10. A total of 38 babies (44.3%) had meconium stained liquor documented at delivery, three babies (3.4%) required neonatal resuscitation upon delivery. There were 10 (11.6%) babies that were admitted to NICU. Conclusion: In this study we found that the prevalence of induction of labour was 15.8%. Hypertension in pregnancy, prolonged pregnancy and pre-labour rupture of membranes are the three common indications for induction of labour. Successful vaginal delivery was achieved in 51.0% of the study population. The caesarean delivery rate was high, mostly due to CTG changes The current induction of labour protocol using oral misoprostol is associated with acceptable maternal and fetal outcomes.
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    Maternal and neonatal outcomes in late preterm prelabour rupture of membranes: a retrospective study
    (2018) Leelodharry, Vakil Kumar; Petro, Gregory; Denny, Lynette
    Background: The management of late preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM) is associated with an increased risk of neonatal prematurity related morbidity due to many obstetric care guidelines which favour delivery at 34 weeks or immediately upon diagnosis of ruptured membranes after 34 weeks gestation. However, expectant management of this group of patients (i.e delayed delivery) between 34+0 and 36+6 weeks of gestation is associated with an increased risk of neonatal and maternal infectious morbidities. Aim of Study: The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of the latency period on maternal and neonatal outcomes in late preterm prelabour rupture of membranes in a regional perinatal service in Cape Town, South Africa. The latency period was defined as the time from rupture of membranes to the time of delivery. In addition, we sought to investigate whether immediate induction of labour in the absence of overt signs of infection or fetal compromise should be prioritised in women who present with late preterm prelabour rupture of membranes. Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study carried out over a period of two years in two secondary level hospitals of the Metro West area of Cape Town. The subjects were low risk HIV negative women with singleton pregnancies with ruptured membranes in the late preterm period. Maternal and neonatal outcomes were studied between two latency periods, namely short latency (< 48 hours) and long latency period (≥ 48 hours) after ruptured membranes. Results and Conclusion: There were no significant differences in maternal and neonatal outcomes between the two groups of latency periods when latency was defined as the time from ruptured membranes to delivery. The study favoured a delayed induction thereby improving neonatal outcomes by decreasing the complications of prematurity. There were more adverse maternal outcomes, including an increase likelihood of augmentation of labour and more operative delivery along with its major risk, that of obstetric haemorrhage, were noted in the short latency period group. Therefore, a delayed induction policy appeared to be more appropriate. Preterm delivery places the newborn at risk of prematurity. Therefore, the risk of prematurity must be balanced with the risks of intrauterine infection and antepartum haemorrhage, the two major complications of expectant management if delayed induction is to be adopted. Proper monitoring of both the pregnant woman and fetus is essential when expectant management is carried out to avoid these adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
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    Maternal Haemoglobin and outcome of pregnancy
    (2022) Amponsah, Kwaku Poku; Petro, Gregory; Fakier, Ahminah
    Background: The association between maternal haemoglobin concentration and the outcome of pregnancy has been a source of continual controversy. Preterm delivery and low birth weight are major causes of stillbirths and early neonatal deaths. Pre-eclampsia is a major complication which occurs during pregnancy and leads to significant maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. This study aims to assess the association between maternal haemoglobin concentration and pregnancy outcome. Objectives: To assess the association between maternal haemoglobin concentration and pre-eclampsia, preterm birth and low birth weight. Methods: Retrospective analysis of 191 patients who delivered an infant of 28 weeks gestation or more from 1st to 22nd May 2017 at New Somerset Hospital with documented maternal haemoglobin concentration at 22 – 33 weeks gestation. The maternal haemoglobin concentration used was the lowest documented during 22 – 33 weeks gestation. Main outcome measures: Development of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight and preterm birth. Results: The distribution of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight and preterm birth were skewed towards the higher side of the maternal haemoglobin concentration spectrum. There were statistically significant differences in the development of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight and preterm birth between maternal haemoglobin concentrations =>13g/dl and that of < 13g/dl. Pre-eclampsia was associated with relatively lower birth weight, preterm birth and low placental weight independently of the haemoglobin status. Conclusion: High maternal haemoglobin concentration at 22 – 33 weeks gestation is associated with an increased prevalence of pre-eclampsia, low birth weight and preterm birth.
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    Mid-upper arm circumference: a surrogate for body mass index in pregnant women?
    (2015) Fakier, Ahminah; Fawcus, Susan; Petro, Gregory
    Background: Nutrition in pregnancy has important implications for both the mother and the fetus, hence the importance of an accurate assessment at the booking visit. Body mass index is currently the gold standard for measuring body fatness. However, pregnancy associated weight gain and oedema, as well as late booking in our population setting, questions the reliability of using the BMI to assess body fat or nutritional state in pregnancy. Mid upper arm circumference has been used for many decades in children under the age of five, to assess malnutrition. Many studies have shown a strong correlation between MUAC and BMI in the adult population. MUAC is a much simpler anthropometric measure to take as it eliminates the need for height charts, scales and calculations. One of the other main advantages of using MUAC is that there is minimal change in the MUAC during pregnancy, which may be a better indicator of pre-pregnancy body fat and nutrition. Objectives: To assess if there is a correlation between the mid upper arm circumference and body mass index in pregnant woman booking in the Metro West area. Methods: This was a cross sectional study of women booking at four MOUs in the Metro West area. Anthropometric measurements namely height, weight and MUAC were carried out on pregnant women booking for the first time in four midwives obstetrics units in Metro West area, Cape Town, South Africa. The participants were divided into two groups, early gestational age group for patients who booked less than twenty weeks, and a late gestational age group for those who booked more than twenty but less than thirty week Results: The results showed that there is a strong correlation between MUAC and BMI in pregnant women up to thirty weeks gestation. The correlation was calculated at 0.92 for the entire group. A regression analysis showed that there is a statistical difference in the mathematical relationship between BMI and MUAC, between the two groups (EGG and LGG). MUAC of 27cm and 31cm had sensitivities and specificities of more than 80% for identifying pregnant women as overweight and obese respectively. Conclusion: The MUAC correlates strongly with BMI in pregnancy up to a gestation of thirty weeks in women in Metro West maternity services. In a low resource settings, the simpler MUAC measurement to assess nutritional status and screen women who are at risk for potential adverse pregnancy outcomes could reliably be substituted for BMI estimation.
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    The outcome of prenatal sonographic diagnosis of fetal talipes in the Cape Town Metro district
    (2017) Swarts, Elfriede; Stewart, Chantal; Petro, Gregory
    Background: Talipes equinovarus, also termed club foot, is a congenital deformity of the ankle joint. Despite its prevalence of approximately 1 per 1000 live births, fetal talipes is relatively poorly studied since the introduction of percutaneous tendo Achilles tenotomies. Objectives: To document the associations, outcomes and prognosis of patients with antenatally diagnosed fetal talipes. The study aims to examine the association between, and prevalence of, fetal talipes and other abnormalities, structural and chromosomal, as well as the outcome in relation to postnatal surgery. The accuracy of prenatal ultrasound in diagnosing fetal talipes is also examined. Methods: A retrospective observational study was made of all cases presenting to the Fetal Medicine Unit between 1 January 2009 and 31 December 2014. All the identified cases were analysed to identify isolated talipes, associated abnormalities, and chromosomal abnormalities. The pregnancy outcomes were determined using the Astraia database as well as maternity records. When the outcome resulted in a live infant, these infants were followed up using the files at the referral hospital to determine the treatment method used and the number requiring surgery. Results: There were 155 cases, all referred to the Fetal Medicine Unit. Antenatal data included 75 who had other structural abnormalities and 75 who had isolated talipes. In five of the cases were no sufficient data could be found. Twenty-five cases were lost to follow-up, and 12 cases had no clubfoot at birth. Only one was labelled as having positional clubfoot. There were 91 live births. Of the cases of talipes with associated abnormalities, 21.19% were live births (excluding ENND). All terminations of pregnancy as well as 90.9% of intrauterine fetal deaths were complex talipes, and 94.52% of the cases of isolated talipes were live births. The most common associated abnormalities were of the central nervous system. Seventeen of the live births were lost to follow-up. Of the cases of isolated talipes, 53.19% had tenotomies and Ponseti treatment. The false positive rate of detecting fetal talipes on ultrasound was 7.74%. Conclusion: The study made it evident that complex talipes is associated with a poor pregnancy outcome defined as pregnancy loss, where isolated talipes is usually associated with a good pregnancy outcome. Ultrasound is a good diagnostic tool when diagnosing talipes antenatally but cannot diagnose the severity of the clubfoot. False negatives were not studied. The introduction of tenotomy can make a difference in the outcome of clubfoot in comparison with previous studies where tenotomies were not performed. Medical professionals need to address the importance of counselling, and a multidisciplinary team should be involved in cases involving prenatal counselling.
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    Pelvic floor dysfunction in female triathletes
    (2018) Mkhombe, Welile; Jeffery, Stephen; Petro, Gregory
    Background: In the past few decades, an increasing number of women have been participating in high-impact sports which involves jumping, landing and/ or running activities. Recent data have shown, however, that this kind of activity might be associated with adverse effects, including pelvic floor disorders. Nevertheless, there is very little in the literature about pelvic floor effects associated with endurance sports where high-impact exercise is performed at submaximal intensity for prolonged periods of time. Objective: The primary objective of the present paper is to describe the prevalence of pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) in a female triathlete population. Methods: An anonymous on-line survey was administered from September 2015 to March 2016 to women who self-identified as triathletes. We used two validated questionnaires: the Pelvic Floor Distress Inventory Questionnaire short form (PFDI) and the Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire short form (PFIQ). In addition, respondents were asked for demographics (age, height, weight, occupation), general health status (medical history, pelvic/abdominal surgical history, pregnancy and birth history) as well as sport practice characteristics (duration of training, level of competition, number of hours spent per week swimming, cycling, and running), so as to characterise these female triathletes. The survey remained active online for seven months, during which time the majority of responses were obtained from having our survey on the IRONMAN December 2015 newsletter. The balance of responses came from various triathlon clubs which we had approached within Western Cape Province. Results: Sixty-seven female triathletes responded to the online survey which we designed on SurveyMonkey. The respondents were between the ages of 22 and 56 years, the mean being 37 years. They had a mean BMI of 22.6 kg/m2. None of them had any medical conditions known to increase the risk of PFD. Of the known surgical history risk factors, 74.6% had had no previous pelvic or abdominal surgery. In the cohort, 69.2% were nulliparous and 30.8% parous. Most of the respondents competed in the recreational age group (70.4%), compared with 29.6% who described themselves as being in the competitive age group. Over 94.4% of the participants had been involved in triathlon training for a period of more than 6 months. At the peak of their training, athletes described their weekly training regime as comprising a mean of 5.4 hours running, 3.9 hours swimming and 9.1 hours cycling. Of those who performed any form of 'core exercises', 29.6% performed pelvic floor exercises, 16.7% yoga, and 25.9% Pilates as part of their routine training. Eighty-two per cent of the triathletes had competed in the half IRONMAN and 37.8% in at least one full IRONMAN competition. The PFDI revealed a number of commonly occurring pelvic floor symptoms. The most reported urinary symptoms were urinary frequency, stress urinary incontinence (SUI) and urge urinary incontinence (UUI) (45.8%, 33.3% and 37.5%, respectively). The most reported colorectal symptoms were incomplete bowel emptying (41.7%), faecal urgency (43.8%), and flatal incontinence (41.7%). Pelvic organ prolapse symptoms were least reported, but those who had symptoms mostly experienced heaviness or dullness in the pelvic area (33.3%), pressure in the lower abdomen (31.3%) and a need for vaginal/rectal digitation in order to have or complete a bowel movement (25%). It was noteworthy to find that the nulliparous triathletes had more pelvic floor symptoms than the parous group. A higher prevalence of colorectal/rectal symptoms were reported by those who had had forceps deliveries. Colorectal symptoms were found to be slightly more prevalent in those who performed any pelvic floor exercises (PFE), yoga or Pilates than amongst those who did not. Even with the myriad symptoms reported, these women were not significantly bothered by their symptoms. Conclusion: It is apparent that PFDs are prevalent in the population reviewed, although the majority of individuals did not seem to be bothered by the symptoms that also did not appear to interrupt training or quality of life. For those who are concerned or troubled by the symptoms, it would be beneficial for them to be identified early so that management options can be offered to relieve the symptoms.
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    Review of Late Preterm birth at Mowbray Maternity Hospital
    (2018) Chambers, Kate Melanie; Horak, Tracey Anne; Fawcus, Susan R; Petro, Gregory
    Introduction: Preterm births are common in all obstetric hospitals and present multiple challenges to both the obstetrician and the paediatrician. Preterm delivery is an important cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality, and places significant psychosocial stress on all involved. Late Preterm Birth (LPTB) is an important topic with many consequences for mother, child and society. It would be of interest to quantify the problem of late preterm birth at Mowbray Maternity Hospital (MMH); quantifying the deliveries into spontaneous versus medically indicated, and to explore the reasons and outcomes for each category. Aims and Objectives: To review the causes, indications for, and outcomes (maternal and neonatal) of all late preterm births delivered at Mowbray Maternity Hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective descriptive study, conducted at Mowbray Maternity Hospital, between January 1 st 2016 and March 31 st 2016. The study population, consisting of 231 patients, includes all deliveries at MMH during the above time period, which fit the inclusion criteria of a gestational age (GA) of between 34⁺⁰ and 36⁺⁶ weeks. All data pertaining to the patient’s previous history, risk factors and current pregnancy were captured and analyzed using Stata. This study was approved by the UCT Ethics Committee (HREC) and institutional approval was obtained from Mowbray Maternity Hospital. All information was treated with confidentially and in accordance with the Helsinki Declaration. Results: During the study period, 1st January 2016 and 31st March 2016, there were a total of 2342 deliveries. Of these deliveries 36 (1.5%) were found to have a GA < 28 weeks (these included those that were categorised as miscarriages); 24 (1%) were between 28 – 31⁺⁶ weeks; 56 (2.4%) were between 32 – 33⁺⁶ weeks and 1833 (78.2%) had a GA above 37 weeks. 162 (6.9%) folders were missing and therefore GA was not calculated, leaving 231 (9.9%) deliveries of late preterm infants. Of the 231 patients included, 64 (27.7%) were noted to have a poor obstetric history, 38 (16.5%) had a history of a previous preterm delivery. Gestational age was calculated by Early Ultrasound Scan (EUS) in 44.2% of cases; Late Ultrasound Scan (LUS) in 36.4 % of cases; Last Normal Menstrual Period (LNMP) in 14.3% of cases and booking palpation in 5.12% of cases. At least one maternal characteristic associated with preterm labour was seen in 131 (56.7%) of the included patients. There were 20 (8.7%) sets of twins. Of the 231 patients, 129 (55.8%) presented in spontaneous labour and 102 were delivered late preterm for medical reasons; this included 70 (30.3% of 231) who had labour induced and 32 (13.9% of 231) who were delivered via caesarean section despite not being in labour for reasons that prevented an Induction of Labour (IOL)/vaginal birth. There were 251 babies delivered in the late preterm category, and of these, 250 (99.6%) were born alive, with 1 Early Neonatal Death (ENND) and 1 macerated stillborn. Of the 251 newborns, 63 (25.1%) were admitted to at least one of the neonatal wards during their hospital stay. Of these, 64.1% spent time in the High Care Unit (HCU), 28.1% spent time in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) and 68.8% spent time in Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC) unit (majority of these newborns had been in either HCU or NICU prior to KMC). Of the 63 neonates admitted to a neonatal ward; there were 37 (36.3%) from the 102 mothers delivered for medical reasons and 26 (20.2%) from the 129 mothers who had presented in spontaneous labour. The overall correlation between gestational age calculated by EUS/LUS/LMNP and Ballard score was calculated as 37%. The average length of stay in the hospital for the newborns, whether admitted or with mom, was 4.96 days. Discussion and Conclusion: Late Preterm Birth accounts for 9.9% of all births and 66.6% of all preterm births at Mowbray Maternity Hospital. This is a substantial proportion of MMH deliveries, putting pressure on already strained resources. This pressure is confounded by the fact that 25.1% of these neonates are admitted to a neonatal ward. 44.2% of these births are medically initiated and this should give cause for thought as to whether our protocols that govern certain medical conditions in pregnancy could possibly be altered to prolong pregnancies and reduce the incidence of Late Preterm Birth.
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    A study comparing paracervical block with procedural sedation in the surgical management of incomplete/missed miscarriages
    (2014) Naiker, Manasri; Petro, Gregory; Reed, Anthony
    Objective: To compare the analgesic efficacy of Paracervical Block (1% lidocaine) with procedural sedation (Midazolam/Fentanyl) in the surgical management of incomplete/ missed miscarriages. Study design: An efficacy trial with a naturally occurring control group who received what is standard practice. The study compared two methods of analgesia. The study group received paracervical block and the control group received procedural sedation. The study ran over two consecutive months (December 2012/January 2013). Setting: Groote Schuur Hospital, a level three hospital situated in Cape Town, South Africa. Population: All women between 18 and 55 years of age that were admitted to Groote Schuur Hospital requiring a uterine evacuation following either a spontaneous incomplete or a missed miscarriage that were not excluded by any of the exclusion criteria. Methods: Over the two month period recruited participants (those patients who fit the inclusion criteria and were agreeable to participate) were allocated to either the control group (month 1) or the intervention group (month 2), depending on which month they had the uterine evacuation. Data was collected from the uterine evacuations of the recruited participants over the two month study period. Main outcome measure: The participants perceived pain during and after uterine evacuation (10 minutes and two hours), scored by the participant on an eleven point numerical pain scale. Secondary outcomes were the surgeons’ satisfaction with the analgesia, duration of procedure and complications/ side effects of the two methods of analgesia under study. Results: A total of 111 participants were recruited over the study period, 57 in the control group and 54 in the intervention group. The average pain score during the procedure was lower in the Paracervical block group compared with the procedural sedation group, but this difference was not statistically significant at a 5% level (t=-1.8495, p=0.0671). For the Paracervical block group, the ‘’pain during” mean and the standard deviation (SD) were 5.56 and 2.50 respectively, whilst for the Procedural sedation group, the mean and SD were 6.49 and 2.81 respectively. Conclusion: Paracervical block using 1% lidocaine is an effective and safe alternative to procedural sedation in the surgical management of incomplete/missed miscarriages.
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    Study of efficacy of ketamine analgesia for surgical management of incomplete miscarriages
    (2013) Krick, Daniela; Petro, Gregory; Reed, Anthony
    Objective: To compare the analgesic efficacy of ketamine with Fentanyl/Midazolam in women requiring uterine evacuation for incomplete miscarriage as measured by the patients’ perceived pain. Study design: An efficacy trial with a naturally occurring control group who received what is currently standard practice. The study ran over two 4-week periods (25/06/2012 to 19/08/2012). Setting: Groote Schuur Hospital (a tertiary hospital) situated in Cape Town, South Africa. Population: All women between the ages of 18 and 55 years admitted to Groote Schuur Hospital for uterine evacuation following a spontaneous incomplete miscarriage or missed miscarriage that were not excluded by any of the exclusion criteria. Methods: Over a 2 month period (two 4-week periods), all patients meeting the inclusion criteria were allocated to either the control group (month 1) or the study group (month 2). Data was collected from all these evacuations during the study period at Groote Schuur Hospital.
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    Trial of Labour or Elective Repeat Caesarean Section in Women who have had one previous caesarean section: An assessment of women's attitudes, knowledge and preferences
    (2020) Ahmed, Tasneem; Petro, Gregory; Fawcus, Susan
    INTRODUCTION Caesarean section (CS) is one of the most frequently performed major abdominal surgeries in the world. There has been a global increasing trend in CS rates over the past three decades, particularly in women who have had one previous CS. Vaginal birth after caesarean section (VBAC) is a safe option and is still strongly recommended by all international authorities with success rates ranging from 60% to 80%. However, women's preference for VBAC vs elective repeat caesarean section (ERCS) remains very poorly understood in South Africa (SA) as very few studies have addressed women's preference for mode of delivery. Repeat caesarean delivery (CD) is reported as the single largest contributor to the escalating CS rate worldwide. So why do women choose repeat CD? Evidence suggests that fear, health care worker influence, social stigma, cultural practise and religious beliefs can significantly influence the attitude toward CS. South African data remains limited and we are yet to ascertain how women make their choice and what drives their specific preferences. The rationale behind this study therefore was to gain better insight into why the women in Cape Town choose VBAC or ERCS and to ascertain to what extent their knowledge, attitude and preferences influence their choice. In so doing, we were able to highlight key findings in order to attempt to reduce the increasing CS rate in our country. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES The primary objective was to explore women's knowledge, attitudes and preferences for VBAC or ERCS after one previous CS, from 36 weeks gestation, attending antenatal care at Mowbray Maternity Hospital (MMH) and New Somerset Hospital (NSH). The secondary outcome was to describe the major reasons for their preferred mode of delivery. METHODOLOGY A prospective descriptive study was conducted over four months, of pregnant participants with one previous lower uterine segment caesarean section (LUSCS), attending antenatal care at MMH and NSH. Participants were recruited from 36-41weeks gestation. Participants over the age of 18 years with one previous LUSCS were eligible for inclusion. Participants with a medical indication for CS were excluded. An interview-based questionnaire, previously 11 adapted for use in a Cape Town antenatal population regarding women's knowledge, attitudes and preferences for mode of delivery was conducted at a routine antenatal visit. In addition, basic obstetric and socio-demographic data was abstracted from their folders. A descriptive analysis of participants' preferences for mode of delivery was completed, with subgroup comparisons. The Fisher's Exact test was used in all the statistical analyses that involved categorical variables whilst continuous variables were analysed using t-tests. RESULTS The study included 100 participants who were eligible for VBAC. Of the participants, 51% preferred ERCS whilst 49% preferred VBAC. Married couples and those in co-habiting relationships, more frequently chose VBAC compared to single participants, who more frequently chose ERCS. Participants were greatly influenced by the opinion of the HCW, particularly if ERCS was suggested, they were likely to choose a CS (p=0.001). If a previous history of long or obstructed labour was reported, participants were inclined to choose ERCS. Fear was identified as a major determinant as 78.4% cited fear of vaginal birth as their reason for preferring a CS. History of previous CS (88.2%) and fear of the risks associated with VBAC were the main reasons cited for their preference. In the group who preferred VBAC, 89.8% were of the perception that VBAC would allow them to recover faster and 87.7% desired to be home sooner therefore, favouring their choice. Whether or not the participants had a previous vaginal delivery or VBAC, it did not affect their preference for mode of delivery in a statistically significant manner. CONCLUSION This study which explored knowledge, attitudes and preferences of women who had had one previous CS, concerning their preference for mode of delivery, is one of the first to be done in South Africa. Despite all participants being medically eligible for VBAC, only 49% preferred this option, the remaining 51% preferring ERCS. Significant determinants of their choice were unstable relationships, influence of the doctor, concern about uterine rupture and fear of labour and unpredictability. Knowledge of the complications of ERCS and VBAC was very limited. This information is useful to design further research to improve understanding of these issues and to design services in a way to overcome the identified problems. In particular, women must be provided non-biased evidence-based information in order to foster a relationship of trust with the health care worker, in assisting her to make an informed decision. Similarly improving respectful competent care of women in labour with better attention to alleviating labour pain, will assist in reducing fear.
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    The use of uterine compression sutures in the management of patients with severe postpartum haemorrhage in a regional obstetric hospital
    (2017) Muavha, Dakalo Arnold; Allie, Saalih; Fawcus, Susan R; Petro, Gregory
    Background: Postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is a direct leading cause of maternal death in developing countries including South Africa, and atonic uterus is responsible for up to 80% of cases of postpartum haemorrhage. The introduction of the uterine compression suture (UCS) by C B-Lynch revolutionised the conservative surgical management of postpartum haemorrhage. Its use is simple, does not require special training and reduces the need for hysterectomy. Many small studies have been conducted in different parts of the world on its effectiveness but no published studies have been found from Africa. To understand the unique challenges in developing countries, especially those in Africa, it would be relevant to establish if uterine compression sutures are beneficial in a low resource setting for the management of PPH. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to audit the use of uterine compression suture (UCS) in our regional hospital, with a focus on the circumstances in which it was used and its success rate in treating postpartum haemorrhage. Methods: This was a retrospective folder review study of all women who had a UCS inserted to treat obstetric haemorrhage in Mowbray Maternity Hospital during the period between January 2010 and June 2016, following ethical approval from the UCT HREC and Mowbray Maternity Hospital's management. Cases were identified from theatre registrars and a designated UCS book. Patients' records were retrieved and data collected and analyzed using the Excel spreadsheet software. Results: During the 6.5-year study period, there were 132, 612 deliveries in the population served by Mowbray maternity Hospital, of which 102,261 (78%) were by normal vaginal delivery and 30,351 (22%) by caesarean section. A total of 150 UCS cases were identified giving a rate of 0.87 UCS per 1000 deliveries (at MMH and its referral MOUs). Of the 150 cases, 115 (77%) patient files could be retrieved for further analysis. UCS was performed more commonly after ceasarean section (107; 93%) than after vaginal delivery (8; 7%) The majority were performed by obstetric registrars (73; 63.4%) compared to 21 (18.3%) performed by consultants and by medical officers. The UCS was successful in stopping haemorrhage without the need for hysterectomy in 107 (93%) of all analyzed cases. Among the 8 failures, all required a hysterectomy and one woman died. The majority of UCS (50%) were performed in cases with estimated blood loss over 1000 mls, with 20.9% having blood loss more than 2000mls. Of note, 13.9% had an estimated blood loss (EBL) less than 500 mls (the majority of which were performed by medical officers). Short term morbidity of UCS cases included blood transfusion (42%), admission to ICU (8.7%), post ceasarean section sepsis (9.6%), and prolonged hospital stay (46.1%). Discussion and conclusion: This study is one of the largest case series and the first done in an African setting. Our success rate of 93% is similar to other previously reported published studies with similar low rates of short term morbidity. Our study confirmed that the success of the UCS is achievable even in low-resource environments and that UCS can be safely performed by surgeons with different levels of surgical expertise (medical officers as well as registrars and consultants).