New Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis: Comparative Risk of Neonatal Ischemic Encephalopathy in Operative Vaginal Delivery vs. Cesarean at Complete Dilation – Now Online in AJP!
We are excited to announce our latest publication is now available online ahead of print in the American Journal of Perinatology!
“Comparative Risk of Neonatal Ischemic Encephalopathy in Operative Vaginal Delivery Versus Cesarean Section at Complete Dilation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.” is now available online at this link: https://www.thieme-connect.de/products/ejournals/abstract/10.1055/a-2796-1349
This systematic review and meta-analysis examines critical neonatal outcomes in second-stage delivery decisions, comparing the risk of neonatal hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) between operative vaginal delivery (including forceps and vacuum subtypes) and cesarean section performed at complete cervical dilation. Key insights include elevated HIE risk with operative vaginal delivery compared to spontaneous vaginal delivery, but comparable overall risk to cesarean at complete dilation—with subgroup findings suggesting forceps-assisted delivery may carry lower risk in certain scenarios.
This work underscores the importance of weighing risks and benefits in intrapartum management to optimize neonatal safety. Full text available via the journal (DOI link above). Congratulations to the research team on this important contribution to obstetric evidence!