Abstract
Objective: To identify clinical variables associated with cesarean delivery for active-phase arrest with hypotonic labor. Methods: We reviewed all deliveries at our institution from September 1975 through March 1989. Data were collected from medical records and a computerized data base. Nulliparas with active-phase arrest were identified and those with hypotonic labor (defined as less than 180 Montevideo units) were selected. The clinical characteristics of each parturient were examined. A linear logistic regression analysis was used to examine the incidence of cesarean delivery as a function of clinical variables. Results: The incidence of active-phase arrest was 4.9%, and hypotonic forces were diagnosed in 81% of the cases managed with an intrauterine pressure catheter. Despite the consistent use of oxytocin in hypotonic labor, the cesarean rate was 60%. Four factors correlated with cesarean delivery in this setting: estimated fetal weight, station at the time of arrest, duration of ruptured membranes, and year of delivery. Conclusions: After an active-phase arrest, cesarean delivery increased when there was suspected cephalopelvic disproportion. In addition, we observed a strong correlation between cesarean delivery and the year of delivery, which suggests a change in physician behavior over time, independent of all other risk factors for cesarean.
| Original language | English (US) |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 758-763 |
| Number of pages | 6 |
| Journal | Obstetrics and gynecology |
| Volume | 81 |
| Issue number | 5 I |
| State | Published - Jan 1 1993 |
| Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Obstetrics and Gynecology