Maternal and neonatal outcomes following trial of labor after two
previous cesareans: a retrospective cohort study.
Abstract
Objective: To evaluate the maternal and neonatal outcomes of parturients
attempting trial of labor (TOL) after two previous cesarean deliveries
(CD) Design: A retrospective computerized database cohort study.
Setting: A single tertiary center between 2005 and 2019. Population:
Parturients attempting TOL after two CD were compared to parturients
opting for elective third repeat CD. TOL after two CD was allowed only
for those who met all the criteria of our departments’ protocol.
Methods: A univariate analysis was conducted and was followed by a
multivariate analysis. Main outcome measures: A composite of adverse
maternal and neonatal outcomes. Results: A total of 2719 eligible births
following two CD were identified, of which 485 (17.8%) had attempted
TOL. Overall, successful vaginal delivery rate following two CDs was
86.2%. Uterine rupture rates were higher among those attempting TOL
(0.6% vs 0.1% p=0.04). However, rates of hysterectomy, re-laparotomy,
blood product infusion and intensive care unit admission did not differ
significantly between the groups. Neonatal outcomes following elective
repeat CD were less favorable (specifically, neonatal intensive care
unit admission and composite adverse neonatal outcome). Nonetheless,
when controlling for potential confounders, an independent association
between composite adverse neonatal outcome and an elective repeat CD was
not demonstrated. In a subgroup analysis, diabetes mellitus and
hypertensive disorders of pregnancy were found independently associated
with failed TOLAC. Conclusion: When following a strict protocol, TOL
after two CD is a reasonable alternative and associated with favorable
maternal and neonatal outcomes