Neonatal mortality in countries of the Americas, 2000-2020: trends, inequalities, and target-setting / Mortalidad neonatal en los países de la Región de las Américas, 2000-2020: tendencias, desigualdades y establecimiento de metas / Mortalidade neonatal nos países das Américas, 2000-2020: tendências, desigualdades e definição de metas

ABSTRACT Objective. To analyze temporal trends and inequalities in neonatal mortality between 2000 and 2020, and to set neonatal mortality targets for 2025 and 2030 in the Americas. Methods. A descriptive ecological study was conducted using 33 countries of the Americas as units of analysis. Both the percentage change and average annual percentage change in neonatal mortality rates were estimated. Measurements of absolute and relative inequality based on adjusted regression models were used to assess cross-country social inequalities in neonatal mortality. Targets to reduce neonatal mortality and cross-country inequalities were set for 2025 and 2030. Results. The estimated regional neonatal mortality rate was 12.0 per 1 000 live births in 2000-2004 and 7.4 per 1 000 live births in 2020, representing a percentage change of -38.3% and an average annual percentage change of -2.7%. National average annual percentage changes in neonatal mortality rates between 2000-2004 and 2020 ranged from -5.5 to 1.9 and were mostly negative. The estimated excess neonatal mortality in the 20% most socially disadvantaged countries, compared with the 20% least socially disadvantaged countries, was 17.1 and 9.8 deaths per 1 000 live births in 2000-2004 and 2020, respectively. Based on an extrapolation of recent trends, the regional neonatal mortality rate is projected to reach 7.0 and 6.6 neonatal deaths per 1 000 live births by 2025 and 2030, respectively. Conclusions. National and regional health authorities need to strengthen their efforts to reduce persistent social inequalities in neonatal mortality both within and between countries.

RESUMEN Objetivo. Analizar las desigualdades en la mortalidad neonatal y las tendencias en el transcurso del tiempo entre el 2000 y el 2020, y establecer metas en materia de mortalidad neonatal para el 2025 y el 2030 en la Región de las Américas. Métodos. Se realizó un estudio ecológico descriptivo con información de 33 países de la Región de las Américas que se usaron como unidades de análisis. Se calculó tanto la variación porcentual como la variación porcentual anual media de las tasas de mortalidad neonatal. Se utilizaron mediciones de la desigualdad absoluta y relativa basadas en modelos de regresión ajustados, para evaluar las desigualdades sociales en los diversos países en cuanto a la mortalidad neonatal. Se establecieron metas de reducción de la mortalidad neonatal y de las desigualdades en los diversos países para el 2025 y el 2030. Resultados. La tasa de mortalidad neonatal en la Región fue de 12,0 por 1 000 nacidos vivos en el período 2000-2004 y de 7,4 por 1 000 nacidos vivos en el 2020, lo que representa una variación porcentual del -38,3% y una variación porcentual anual media del -2,7%. Las variaciones porcentuales anuales medias de las tasas de mortalidad neonatal a nivel nacional entre el período 2000-2004 y el 2020 oscilaron entre -5,5 y 1,9, y fueron en su mayor parte negativas. El exceso de mortalidad neonatal estimado en el 20% de los países más desfavorecidos socialmente, en comparación con el 20% de los países menos desfavorecidos socialmente, fue de 17,1 muertes por 1 000 nacidos vivos en el período 2000-2004 y de 9,8 muertes por 1 000 nacidos vivos en el 2020. Al extrapolar las tendencias más recientes, se prevé que la tasa de mortalidad neonatal de la Región alcance valores de 7,0 y 6,6 muertes neonatales por 1 000 nacidos vivos en el 2025 y el 2030, respectivamente. Conclusiones. Las autoridades de salud nacionales y regionales deben fortalecer las medidas para reducir las desigualdades sociales que aún persisten en materia de mortalidad neonatal, tanto entre los distintos países como dentro de cada país.

RESUMO Objetivo. Analisar as tendências temporais e desigualdades em mortalidade neonatal entre 2000 e 2020 e estabelecer metas de mortalidade neonatal para 2025 e 2030 na Região das Américas. Métodos. Estudo ecológico descritivo examinando 33 países das Américas como unidades de análise. Foram estimadas a variação percentual e a variação percentual anual média das taxas de mortalidade neonatal. Foram usadas medidas de desigualdade absoluta e relativa baseadas em modelos de regressão ajustados para avaliar desigualdades sociais entre países em termos de mortalidade neonatal. Foram definidas metas de redução da mortalidade neonatal e das desigualdades entre países para 2025 e 2030. Resultados. A taxa regional estimada de mortalidade neonatal foi de 12,0 por mil nascidos vivos em 2000-2004, e de 7,4 por mil nascidos vivos em 2020, representando uma variação percentual de -38,3%, e uma variação percentual anual média de -2,7%. As variações percentuais anuais médias nacionais das taxas de mortalidade neonatal entre 2000-2004 e 2020 variaram entre -5,5 e 1,9 e, em sua maioria, foram negativas. O excesso estimado de mortalidade neonatal nos países que estavam entre os 20% mais desfavorecidos socialmente, em comparação com os países entre os 20% menos desfavorecidos, foi de 17,1 e 9,8 mortes por mil nascidos vivos em 2000-2004 e 2020, respectivamente. Com base em extrapolação das tendências recentes, estima-se que a taxa de mortalidade neonatal regional deve atingir 7,0 e 6,6 mortes neonatais por mil nascidos vivos em 2025 e 2030, respectivamente. Conclusões. As autoridades de saúde nacionais e regionais precisam intensificar seus esforços para reduzir desigualdades sociais persistentes na mortalidade neonatal, tanto dentro dos países quanto entre eles.

A espiritualidade e o luto na morte perinatal: uma revisão narrativa / Spirituality and bereavement in perinatal death: a narrative review

A morte perinatal, compreendida como a morte de um feto entre 28 semanas ou mais de gestação e nascido vivo com menos de 28 dias de idade, envolve aspectos multidimensionais do sofrimento familiar. Entre as estratégias existentes de como lidar com esse sofrimento, a espiritualidade, entendida como busca pessoal de compreensão das questões existenciais humanas e suas relações com o sagrado e transcendente, pode ser uma forma de ressignificar esse processo de luto. Investigar a influência da espiritualidade no luto familiar decorrente de mortes perinatais. Foi realizada uma pesquisa no PUBMED utilizando os descritores DeCs/Mesh "Bereavement", "Perinatal death" e "Spirituality" no mês de junho de 2023. Foram incluídos 14 artigos nesta revisão narrativa. Realizar rituais que honrem a memória do bebê, identificando-o como membro da família favorecem o processo de elaboração e aceitação do luto. A autorreflexão acerca do processo da perda torna-se inerente para ressignificar o luto perinatal como uma "experiência humana natural". Além disso, a espiritualidade representa um meio de fortalecimento e ressignificação tanto para a mãe quanto para os familiares diante do sofrimento experienciado. Por fim, há uma carência de profissionais de saúde e religiosos qualificados que consigam abordar de uma maneira sistemática a oferecer melhora no processo e na qualidade assistencial da perda materna. A experiência do luto perinatal pode assumir novos valores e significados ao ser reconhecida, respeitada e auxiliada por profissionais qualificados em abordar sobre o tema, sendo a espiritualidade um aspecto importante para a elaboração do luto materno.

Perinatal death, understood as the death of a fetus between 28 weeks or more of gestation and a live birth less than 28 days old, involves multidimensional aspects of family suffering. Among the existing strategies for dealing with this suffering, spirituality, understood as a personal search for understanding human existential issues and their relationships with the sacred and transcendent, can be a way of giving new meaning to this grieving process. Investigate the influence of spirituality on family bereavement resulting from perinatal deaths. A search was carried out on PUBMED using the DeCs/Mesh descriptors "Bereavement", "Perinatal death" and "Spirituality" in June 2023. 14 articles were included in this narrative review. Performing rituals that honor the baby's memory, identifying them as a member of the family, favors the process of elaboration and acceptance of bereavement. Self-reflection about the process of loss becomes inherent to re-signify perinatal bereavement as a "natural human experience". Furthermore, spirituality represents a means of strengthening and giving new meaning for both the mother and family members in the face of the suffering experienced. Finally, there is a lack of qualified health and religious professionals who can systematically approach and improve the process and quality of care for maternal loss. The experience of perinatal bereavement can take on new values and meanings when recognized, respected and assisted by professionals qualified to address the topic, with spirituality being an important aspect in the elaboration of maternal bereavement.

Fatores de risco para óbito perinatal em gestantes de alto risco de um hospital terciário de Curitiba-PR, Brasil: estudo caso-controle / Risk factors for perinatal death in high-risk pregnant women at a tertiary hospital in Curitiba-PR, Brazil: a case-control study

Resumo Estudo caso-controle com o objetivo de estimar os fatores de risco da mortalidade perinatal em um hospital de referência para gestações de alto risco em Curitiba-PR. Os dados de características sociodemográficas, maternas, da gestação e do concepto foram obtidos dos prontuários hospitalares de 316 casos e 316 controles do período de 2013 a 2017. Foi realizada análise de regressão logística múltipla hierarquizada, permanecendo no modelo final variáveis com p < 0,05. Os resultados mostram aumento do risco de óbito perinatal em mães com tipo sanguíneo B (OR = 2,82; IC95%: 1,07-7,43), que não realizaram pré-natal (OR = 30,78; IC95%: 4,23-224,29), conceptos com malformações congênitas (OR = 63,90; IC95%: 27,32-149,48), nascidos com menos de 28 (OR = 24,21; IC95%: 1,10-531,81) e entre 28-31 semanas de gestação (OR = 6,03; IC95%: 1,34-27,17) e peso ao nascer abaixo de 1.000g (OR = 51,94; IC95%: 4,31-626,46), entre 1.000-1.499g (OR = 11,17; IC95%: 2,29-54,41) e entre 1.500-2.499g (OR = 2,75; IC95%: 1,25-6,06). Conceptos de gestações com desfecho prematuro, baixo peso ao nascer e presença de malformações congênitas são os principais fatores de risco para o óbito perinatal. Em contrapartida, a assistência pré-natal adequada é importante fator de proteção.

Abstract A case-control study was carried out to estimate risk factors for perinatal mortality in a referral hospital for high-risk pregnancies in Curitiba-PR. Sociodemographic, maternal, pregnancy and concept characteristics data were obtained from the hospital records of 316 cases and 316 controls from 2013 to 2017. A hierarchical multiple logistic regression analysis was performed, remaining in the final model variables with p < 0.05. The results show an increased risk of perinatal death in mothers with blood type B (OR = 2.82; 95%CI: 1.07-7.43), who did not undergo prenatal care (OR = 30.78; 95%CI: 4.23-224.29), fetuses with congenital malformations (OR = 63.90; 95%CI: 27.32-149.48), born under 28 (OR = 24.21; 95%CI: 1, 10-531.81) and between 28-31 weeks of gestation (OR = 6.03; 95%CI: 1.34-27.17) and birth weight below 1,000g (OR = 51.94; 95%CI: 4.31-626.46), between 1,000-1,499g (OR = 11.17; 95%CI: 2.29-54.41) and between 1,500-2,499g (OR = 2.75; 25-6.06). Concepts of pregnancies with premature outcome, low birth weight and the presence of congenital malformations are the main risk factors for perinatal death. On the other hand, adequate prenatal care is an important protective factor.

Contributory factors to early neonatal deaths in the Upper East Regional Hospital in Ghana

Objective: This study examined factors identified during early neonatal death audits contributing to preventable newborn deaths at the Upper East Regional Hospital. Method: Data for this study was collected retrospectively from perinatal death audit forms using three data collectors. Data collection lasted two weeks, from 18th June to 2nd July 2021. The data collectors submitted 113 filled hard copy data collection forms. This was then entered into a designed Excel sheet and exported to STATA software version 15.0 for analysis. The analysis was descriptive statistics with cross-tabulation. The results were presented in charts and tables focusing on percentages. Results: Most of the 113 neonatal deaths were from birth asphyxia (63%). Forty-six (40.7%) of the deaths occurred within 24 hrs after birth. There were 38 factors reported 254 times in the audits as contributory to all the newborn deaths; 17 health personnel-related factors stated 141 (55.5%) times, four transportation and communication-related factors stated 43 (16.9%) times, seven health facility factors stated 31 (12.2%) times. Inappropriate care during transportation to the regional hospital was reported most - 21 times, followed by delay in referral - 18 times. Conclusion: The study identified many factors, such as medical personnel-related factors, transportation and communication factors, family-related factors, and health facility administration factors, contributing to early neonatal deaths. Effective implementation of neonatal death audit-based recommendations arising from these contributory factors is critical to preventing avoidable newborn deaths.

Death of hospitalized neonates of different gestational age in Shaanxi Province: a multi-center survey / 中华围产医学杂志

Objective:To investigate the current status of hospitalized neonatal death of different gestational ages in Shaanxi Province.Methods:All neonatal deaths in six hospitals in Shaanxi Province from 2016 to 2020 were retrospectively analyzed, and the differences in perinatal complications, the causes of death, and the age at death were compared using Chi-square (or Fisher's exact ) test. Results:(1) Totally, 220 488 neonates were delivered in the obstetric department of the six hospitals during the study period; 71 782 out of them were admitted to the neonatal department. While 424 neonatal death was reported, giving the total hospitalized neonates mortality rate of 5.5‰ (394/71 782), which included 152 deaths of transferred patients ( n=9 103, 16.7‰), 226 premature (53.3%), 196 term (46.2%), and two post-term infants (0.5%). (2) Among mothers of dead neonates, 73.6% were found to have at least one perinatal complication. The most common one was fetal distress (146 cases, 34.4%), followed by gestational diabetes mellitus (113 cases, 26.7%), amniotic fluid abnormalities ( n=73, 17.2%), maternal infectious diseases ( n=71, 16.8%), and hypertensive disorders in pregnancy (HDP) ( n=52, 12.3%). The lower the gestational age, the higher the proportion of multiple pregnancies and assisted reproduction technology applied (Fisher exact test, P<0.05). On the contrary, the higher the gestational age, the higher the cesarean section rate ( χ 2=26.69, P<0.001). HDP was more likely to occur in the gestational age of 28-31 +6 and 32-34 +6 weeks ( χ 2=37.16, P<0.001), and amniotic fluid abnormalities were more likely to occur in those over 37 weeks ( χ 2=27.47, P<0.001). (3) The five leading causes of neonatal death were neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS, n=100, 23.6%), neonatal asphyxia ( n=88, 20.8%), maternal infectious diseases ( n=80, 18.9%), and birth defects ( n=54, 12.7%), and pulmonary hemorrhage ( n=22, 5.2%). The first three causes of death in term and post-term infants were neonatal asphyxia ( n=65, 32.8%), birth defects ( n=42, 21.2%), and infectious diseases ( n=26, 13.1%). NRDS ( n=83, 36.7%), infectious diseases ( n=54, 23.9%), and neonatal asphyxia ( n=23, 10.2%) were the three leading causes of death of premature babies. (4) Out of the 326 (76.9%) neonatal deaths within seven days after birth, 162 (38.2%) died within 24 h after birth and 164 cases (38.7%) between one to seven days after birth. Conclusions:Most neonatal deaths occurred among preterm ones and within seven days after birth, whose mothers suffered perinatal complications. The causes of neonatal death vary among different gestational age groups.

Embarazo ectópico abdominal de 23 semanas en primigestante. Reporte de caso

El embarazo ectópico abdominal es una patología poco frecuente, la cual consiste en un embarazo con implantación dentro de la cavidad abdominal y fuera del útero y sus anexos; siendo el menos frecuente de los embarazos ectópicos, y representando el 1 % de los casos. Sin embargo, cuando se presenta, la tasa de mortalidad materno-fetal es alta, por lo que representa una urgencia médica con complicaciones graves como hemorragia obstétrica. El diagnóstico requiere un alto grado de sospecha, debido a que el sangrado menstrual regular puede estar presente. Se presenta el caso de una paciente primigestante con embarazo ectópico abdominal en segundo trimestre, con manejo definitivo quirúrgico y posterior evolución materna favorable al postquirúrgico, sin embargo, con resultado perinatal adverso para el recién nacido. La importancia de este caso radica en su diagnóstico oportuno, por el cual se logró evitar complicaciones que pusieran en riesgo la vida de la paciente.

Abdominal ectopic pregnancy is a rare pathology, it is expressed by a pregnancy with implantation inside the abdominal cavity and outside the uterus and its annexes, being specifically the least frequent of ectopic pregnancies, representing 1% of cases. When it occurs, the maternal-fetal mortality rate is high1. The diagnosis requires a high degree of suspicion, due to regular menstrual bleeding may be present. It is a medical emergency with serious complications such as obstetric hemorrhage. We present the case of a prime pregnant patient with abdominal ectopic pregnancy in the second trimester with definitive surgical management, and subsequent maternal evolution favorable to post-surgery, however, with adverse perinatal outcome for the newborn. The importance of this case lies in its timely diagnosis, by which it was possible to avoid complications that put the patient's life at risk.

Asociación entre el hipotiroidismo subclínico de anticuerpos antiperoxidasa tiroidea negativos y los resultados perinatales adversos diagnosticados con diferentes criterios en el tercer trimestre del embarazo

Antecedentes. El efecto del hipotiroidismo subclínico (HSC) en los resultados perinatales adversos no está claro, y los valores de referencia de la hormona tiroestimulante (TSH) en el embarazo son controvertidos. Objetivo. Evaluar los efectos del HSC negativo para los anticuerpos de la peroxidasa tiroidea (TPOAbs) sobre los resultados perinatales según los diferentes valores de referencia de la TSH. Métodos. Un total de 554 mujeres embarazadas, incluyendo 509 eutiroideas y 45 gestantes hipotiroideas subclínicas (TSH > 3 mIU/L), fueron incluidas en este estudio prospectivo de casos y controles. Todas las gestantes estaban en el tercer trimestre y eran negativas a los TPOAbs. Las funciones tiroideas fueron evaluadas utilizando los valores de referencia específicos para el trimestre recomendados por el Colegio Americano de Obstetricia y Ginecología (ACOG) (TSH > 3 mIU/L) y la Asociación Americana de Tiroides (ATA) (TSH > 4 mIU/L). Resultados. La mortalidad neonatal en el hipotiroidismo subclínico con un límite superior de TSH de 4 mIU/L fue significativamente menor que en el grupo eutiroideo (2 (0,4%) frente a 1 (4,5%); p=0,009). No hubo diferencias significativas en resultados maternos y perinatales adversos en las gestantes con HSC y eutiroideas en ambos valores de referencia de la TSH. No hubo correlación significativa entre los valores de TSH y las semanas de parto de las gestantes con parto prematuro (r=0,169, p=0,146). Conclusiones. En este estudio, utilizando los diferentes valores basales de TSH recomendados por las directrices del ACOG de 2020 y de la ATA de 2017 en el tercer trimestre del embarazo para el diagnóstico de hipotiroidismo subclínico, no hubo una relación significativa entre los casos de hipotiroidismo subclínico con TPOAbs negativos y los resultados perinatales adversos.

Background: The effect of subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) on adverse perinatal outcomes is unclear, and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) reference values in pregnancy are controversial. Objective: To evaluate the effects of thyroid peroxidase antibody (TPOAbs) negative SCH on perinatal outcomes according to the different TSH reference values. Methods: A total of 554 pregnant women, including 509 euthyroid and 45 subclinical hypothyroid (TSH > 3 mIU/L) pregnant women, were included in this prospective case-controlled study. All pregnant women were in the third trimester and were TPOAbs negative. Thyroid functions were evaluated using trimester-specific reference values recommended by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology (ACOG) (TSH > 3 mIU/L) and the American Thyroid Association (ATA) (TSH > 4 mIU/L) guidelines. Results: Neonatal mortality in subclinical hypothyroidism with a TSH upper limit of 4 mIU/L was significantly lower than in the euthyroid group (2 (0.4%) vs 1 (4.5%); p=0.009). There was no significant difference in terms of adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes in SCH and euthyroid pregnant women in both TSH reference values. There was no significant correlation between TSH values and delivery weeks of pregnant women with preterm delivery (r=0.169, p=0.146). Conclusions: In this study, using different baseline TSH values recommended by the 2020 ACOG and 2017 ATA guidelines in the third trimester of pregnancy for the diagnosis of subclinical hypothyroidism, it was shown that there was no significant relationship between cases of subclinical hypothyroidism with negative TPOAbs and adverse perinatal outcomes.

Experiências e condutas do profissional de saúde diante do óbito neonatal: revisão integrativa / Experiencias y conductas de los profesionales de la salud ante la muerte neonatal: revisión integradora / Experiences and behaviors of healthcare professionals in the face of neonatal death: an integrative review

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar as experiências e a condutas do profissional de saúde diante do óbito neonatal disponíveis na literatura. Método: estudo bibliográfico descritivo, do tipo revisão integrativa, com delimitação temporal de 2009 a 2020, realizado nas bases de dados LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL e biblioteca virtual SciELO, por duas pesquisadoras de forma independente em junho de 2021. Foram selecionados 511 artigos, mas somente 21 compuseram o corpus final do estudo após a aplicação dos critérios de inclusão/exclusão. Resultados: os estudos evidenciaram que as experiências dos profissionais diante do óbito são permeadas por sentimentos ambivalentes que influenciam na escolha de suas estratégias de enfrentamento. Dentre as condutas adotadas pelos profissionais, a comunicação clara e sensível, o acolhimento ao luto dos familiares, o respeito à decisão dos pais em relação aos cuidados com o recém-nascido e a entrega de lembranças foram consideradas atitudes positivas para a superação do óbito neonatal. Considerações finais: os resultados mostram o despreparo dos profissionais para lidar com o processo de morte do recém-nascido e a necessidade de haver estratégias de educação permanente voltada ao óbito neonatal.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar las experiencias y conductas de los profesionales de la salud ante la muerte neonatal disponibles en la bibliografía. Método: estudio bibliográfico descriptivo, tipo revisión integradora, con delimitación temporal de 2009 a 2020, realizado en las bases de datos LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL y la biblioteca virtual SciELO, por dos investigadoras de forma independiente en junio de 2021. Se seleccionaron 511 artículos, pero sólo 21 constituyeron el corpus final del estudio tras aplicar los criterios de inclusión/exclusión. Resultados: los estudios evidencian que las experiencias de los profesionales en el ámbito laboral están impregnadas de sentimientos ambivalentes que influyen en la elección de sus estrategias de enfrentamiento. Entre las conductas adoptadas por los profesionales, se destacan: la comunicación clara y sensible; atención al duelo de los familiares; el respeto a la decisión de los países en relación a los cuidados con el recién nacido; y la entrega de las memorias, fueron consideradas actitudes positivas para la superación del fallecimiento neonatal. Consideraciones finales: los resultados muestran la falta de preparación de los profesionales para afrontar el proceso de muerte del recién nacido y la necesidad de estrategias de formación continua centradas en la muerte neonatal.

ABSTRACT Objective: to identify the experiences and behaviors of healthcare professionals in the face of neonatal death Available from the literature. Method: descriptive bibliographical study, of the integrative review type, with temporal delimitation from 2009 to 2020, carried out in the LILACS, BDENF, MEDLINE, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL and SciELO virtual library databases, by two researchers independently in June de 2021. A total of 511 articles were selected, but only 21 made up the final corpus of the study after applying the inclusion/exclusion criteria. Results: the studies showed that the experiences of professionals in the face of death are permeated by ambivalent feelings that influence the choice of their coping strategies. Among the behaviors adopted by the professionals, clear and sensitive communication, welcoming the grieving of family members, respect for the parents' decision regarding the care of the newborn and the delivery of memories were considered positive attitudes for overcoming neonatal death. Final considerations: the results show the unpreparedness of healthcare professionals to deal with the newborn's death process and the need for permanent education strategies focused on neonatal death.

Maternal and neonatal complications of childbirth among adolescents at the Sylvanus Olympio University Hospital Centre (CHU-SO), Lomé

Objective: To determine maternal and neonatal complications occurring at childbirth among adolescents.Materials and methods: This is a retrospective, descriptive study conducted from 1st July to 31st December 2019 at the maternity ward of the Sylvanus Olympio University Hospital Centre (CHU- SO), Lomé, Togo. The socio- demographic parameters of the mothers, details of prenatal and perinatal events and the clinical profile of the newborns at birth were studied. Results: The records of 332 adolescent mothers were studied. The average age of the mothers was 17.4 ± 1.5 years, with a range of 13-19 years. The pregnancies in two-thirds (66.3%) were supervised in centres without surgical facilities and by midwives in 83.1% of cases. A little over half of the mothers (53.3%) attended at least four antenatal clinic sessions, while 3.6% attended none. The modes of delivery were spontaneous vaginal (62.3%) and Caesarean section (35.2%). Complications of pregnancy were recorded in 12.9% of the mothers. There were statistically significant associations between the referred status of the mothers and haemorrhages, retained placenta and sepsis (p = 0.001, 0.038 and 0.011, respectively). There were no maternal deaths. The newborn babies required resuscitation in 6.3% of cases, while 7.0% were stillborn.There was a statistically significant relationship between the referred status of mothers and the occurrence of perinatal deaths (p =0.0001). Conclusion: Adolescent mothers are at risk of complications during childbirth, and these risks are increased by poor antenatal care and attempted deliveries in centres without surgical facilities.

Luto gestacional e neonatal: emergência de uma nova problemática / Gestational and neonatal mourning: emergency of a new social problem

Esta dissertação investiga a construção dos fenômenos da morte e do luto gestacional e neonatal como problemática social e experiência de saúde na contemporaneidade. A medicina e os avanços tecnológicos têm promovido transformações relativas aos valores acerca da reprodução e do nascituro/recém-nascido. A redução das taxas de mortalidade alcançadas pela medicina a partir da metade do séc. XX oblitera o tema dos possíveis desenlaces fatais das gestações. Qualificados como "bebês", conceptos encarnam projetos de família e, por conseguinte, podem adquirir para o par parental o estatuto de pessoa, ainda que sua vida não tenha vingado. Diante do óbito prematuro (seja na gestação ou no pós-parto), observa-se o desinvestimento médico e dos serviços de saúde: as mulheres acometidas padecem de invisibilidade e ausência de cuidado. Este trabalho consiste, de um lado, na abordagem etnográfica documental dos Descritores em Ciências da Saúde (DeCS/MeSH) com o objetivo de delinear valores e normas de conduta biomédicos relacionados à assistência reprodutiva e à do recém-nascido. O conjunto de classificações biomédicas é permeado por moralidades distintas que concedem ora a condição de resto fetal, ora o estatuto de pessoa, paciente e cidadão. De outro lado, dada a escassez de literatura brasileira, foram analisadas produções feministas/acadêmicas norte-americanas e francesas acerca da crescente visibilização do fenômeno do luto gestacional e neonatal (LGNN). Em resposta ao vácuo social do par parental cujo filho não sobreviveu, profissionais e acadêmicas engajam-se na ressignificação dos projetos de maternidade (e paternidade) interrompidos. São discursos e práticas calcados em críticas à episteme e hierarquia médicas. O entrelaçamento entre afetação e saber especializado oferece visibilidade e inserção coletiva às trajetórias femininas atravessadas pela morte prematura de filhos; o ideário do luto GNN concede novos sentidos à procriação, ao corpo feminino e à pessoa do nascituro/recém-nascido.

This dissertation investigates the construction of the phenomena of gestational and neonatal death and mourning as a contemporary social problem and health experience. Technological advances have promoted changes in the values of reproduction and personhood of the unborn/newborn. The decrease of the mortality rates, achieved by the applied medical science in the middle of the twentieth century, obliterates possible fatalities in the outcomes of pregnancies. Qualified as "babies", unborn children embody family projects and can be given the sense of personhood, regardless of its survival. However, when facing premature death (gestational or after birth), doctors and caregivers reduce the offers of services: affected women suffer from invisibility and absence of care. This research consists, on one hand, in the ethnography of Medical Subject Headings (DeCS/MeSH) to delineate biomedical values and norms of conduct related to reproductive and neonatal care. The set of biomedical classifications is permeated by ambiguous moralities that sometimes grant the condition of fetal waste, or the status of person, patient, and citizen. On the other hand, given the lack of Brazilian literature, North American and French authors ground the analysis of the growing visibility of the phenomenon of gestational and neonatal mourning. In response to the social gap experienced by the couple whose child did not survive, caregivers and academics engage themselves in the production of frames for the interrupted projects of motherhood (and fatherhood). The discourses and practices are based on criticisms of the medical knowledge and hierarchy. The intertwining between affectation and expertise offers visibility and integration to the women who suffered the premature death of their children; the ideology of gestational and neonatal (GNN) mourning assigns new meanings to the process of procreation, the female body, and the personhood of the unborn/newborn.

SARS-CoV-2 en la segunda mitad del embarazo: resultados materno - perinatales / Sars-CoV-2 in the second half of pregnancy: Maternal and perinatal outcomes / Sars-CoV-2 in the second half of pregnancy: Maternal and perinatal outcomes

RESUMEN Introducción . La pandemia por COVID-19 es una emergencia sanitaria y social mundial. El conocimiento sobre su efecto en las gestantes es todavía limitado. Objetivo . Describir los resultados materno-perinatales de COVID-19 según clasificación de severidad en mujeres hospitalizadas en la segunda mitad del embarazo. Métodos . Estudio observacional, descriptivo, retrospectivo, desde marzo hasta julio del 2020, en el Hospital Nacional Edgardo Rebagliati Martins, EsSalud, Lima, Perú. Se incluyeron a todas las gestantes hospitalizadas con RT-PCR y/o prueba rápida positiva para SARS-CoV-2. Se excluyeron los embarazos menores a 20 semanas y las altas epidemiológicas. Las características maternas al ingreso y los resultados materno-perinatales fueron agrupados según la clasificación clínica de la enfermedad. Las variables cualitativas son presentadas en recuentos y porcentajes; y las cuantitativas, en medianas y rangos. Resultados . Se estudiaron 247 gestantes. La mayoría correspondía al tercer trimestre (76%). La presentación más frecuente de la virosis fue asintomática (83%) y los casos de neumonía severa fueron pocos (3,2%). La tasa de cesárea fue alta (60%), aunque los partos vaginales se duplicaron en el tiempo (0-24% a 44%). Los casos severos tuvieron mayor tasa de cesárea (100%) y parto prematuro iatrogénico (100%). No se reportaron muertes maternas. Se registraron 9 óbitos fetales y 5 neonatos positivos para SARS-CoV-2, ambos entre las asintomáticas y leves. Conclusiones . En nuestra institución, la posibilidad de cesárea y de parto prematuro iatrogénico fue mayor en los casos severos. La tasa de parto vaginal aumentó en los últimos meses. No se identificaron complicaciones perinatales relacionadas al COVID-19.

ABSTRACT Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic is a global health and social emergency. Knowledge is still limited about its effect on pregnant women. Objective: To describe maternal-perinatal outcomes of COVID-19 according to severity classification in women hospitalized in the second half of pregnancy. Methods: Retrospective, descriptive, observational study from March to July 2020 at Edgardo Rebagliati Martins National Hospital. All hospitalized pregnant women with RT-PCR and/ or rapid positive test for SARS-CoV-2 were included. Pregnancies less than 20 weeks and epidemiological discharges were excluded. Maternal characteristics at admission and maternal-perinatal outcomes were grouped according to the clinical classification of the disease. The qualitative variables are presented in counts and percentages; and quantitative ones, in medians and ranges. Results: 247 pregnant women were studied. Most of them were in the third trimester (76%). The most frequent presentation of the disease was asymptomatic (83%), and cases of severe pneumonia were few (3.2%). The cesarean section rate was high (60%), although vaginal deliveries doubled over time (0-24 a 44%). Severe cases had a higher rate of cesarean section (100%) and iatrogenic preterm delivery (75%). No maternal deaths were reported. There were 9 stillbirths and 5 positive neonates for SARS-CoV-2, both among asymptomatic and mild patients. 9 stillbirths and 5 positive neonates for SARS-CoV-2, both among asymptomatic and mild cases. Conclusions: The possibility of cesarean section and iatrogenic preterm delivery is greater in severe cases. The vaginal delivery rate increased in recent months. No perinatal complications related to COVID-19 were identified.

Death of a neonate born to a critically ill mother with COVID-19: a case report / 中华围产医学杂志

We report a critically ill pregnant woman in the third trimester with severe pneumonia due to COVID-19 who presented to Xiaolan People's Hospital of Zhongshan in February 2020. The 32-year-old patient was admitted at 35 +2 gestational weeks with a 4-day history of a sore throat and a fever for three hours. The patient had been to Xiaogan City, Hubei Province, and the symptoms occurred during a period of self-isolation after back home. The condition of the patient deteriorated rapidly, with left-sided chest and back pain, shortness of breath, dizziness, progressing to respiratory failure and septic shock 7 hours after her admission. In view of her critical condition and a history of two previous cesarean sections, an emergency cesarean section was performed. Blood gas analysis of the mother before the operation suggested respiratory failure, respiratory acidosis, and metabolic acidosis. During the operation, a baby boy was born. The Apgar score of the boy, birth weight of 2 700 g, was one at 1, 5 and 10 minutes despite the resuscitation efforts. The neonate died after withdrawing treatment. The patient was treated with tracheal intubation ventilator and other supportive treatments after the operation. The result of the new coronavirus nucleic acid test, taken on admission, but which was reported after delivery, was positive. The patient was transferred to the designated hospital for further treatment and was recovering with the withdrawal of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and ventilation support at 26 and 36 days after surgery, respectively.

Análisis de la cesárea según la clasificación de Robson en un hospital público de Perú / Analysis of cesarean sections according to Robson´s classification in a public hospital in Peru

OBJETIVO: Analizar la cesárea según la clasificación de Robson en un hospital público peruano. MATERIALES Y MÉTODOS: Estudio transversal, analítico, de partos atendidos en el Hospital Hipólito Unanue de Tacna, clasificados según Robson. En dos periodos (2000-2009 y 2010-2018) se compararon las tasas de cesárea, su contribución absoluta y relativa, indicación y riesgos maternos y perinatales. Para el análisis estadístico se utilizó c2 y se consideró significación estadística al valor de p < 0.05 y razón de momios, con IC95%, con riesgo significativo cuando el IC fue mayor de 1 y p < 0.05. Los datos se obtuvieron del Sistema Informático Perinatal y se procesaron en el programa SPSS v26. RESULTADOS: De 64,375 partos analizados, la tasa global de cesárea fue de 38.6%, con incremento de 23.9% en 2000 a 55.8% en 2018, con predominio de los grupos 1, 3 y 5, que son los de mayor contribución absoluta y relativa. Las principales indicaciones de la cesárea fueron: desproporción céfalo-pélvica (grupos 1 a 4), sufrimiento fetal, cesárea anterior y preeclampsia. Los grupos 1 (OR = 2.63; IC95%: 1.28-5.39; p < 0.05) y 3 (OR = 3.06; IC95%: 1.62-5.79; p < 0.05) tuvieron significativamente mayor riesgo de muerte neonatal en comparación con los de parto. CONCLUSIONES: La tasa de cesárea se incrementó en los últimos 19 años, principalmente en los grupos 1, 3 y 5 según la clasificación de Robson. Los grupos 1 y 3 tuvieron mayor riesgo de mortalidad neonatal que el de los nacidos por parto. (AU)

OBJECTIVE: Analyze cesarean sections according to Robson's classification in peruvian public hospital. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Analytical cross-sectional study in 64375 deliveries attended at the Hipolito Unanue hospital in Tacna according to Robson´s classification. Cesarean rates, absolute and relative contribution, cesarean sections´ indications and maternal perinatal risks were compared in two periods (2000-2009, 2010-2018). Chi2 was used with statistical significance when p <0.05 and Odds Ratio (OR) with 95% Confidence Interval (95% CI) with significant risk when IC> 1 and p <0.05. The data was obtained from the Perinatal Informatic System and processed in SPSS version 25. RESULTS: The overall cesarean section rate was 38.6% with an increase of 23.9% in 2000 to 55.8% in 2018; a predominance of groups 1, 3 and 5 who had greater absolute and relative contribution. The main indications were cephalopelvic disproportion, fetal distress, previous caesarean section and preeclampsia. There was a significantly higher risk of neonatal death in groups 1 (OR = 2.6, 95% IC: 1.28-5.39, p <0.05) and 3 (OR = 3.1, 95% IC: 1.62-5, 79; p <0.05) compared with vaginal deliveries. CONCLUSIONS: The cesarean rate increased in the last 19 years, mainly in groups 1, 3 and 5 according to Robson's classification; Group 1 and 3 presented a greater risk of neonatal mortality compared with vaginal deliveries.

Epidemiological profile of patients with preterm premature rupture of membranes at a tertiary hospital in São Paulo, Brazil

OBJECTIVE: To perform a descriptive analysis of preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) cases attended in a tertiary hospital. METHOD: Retrospective analysis of medical records and laboratory tests of patients admitted to a Brazilian tertiary hospital between 2006 and 2011, with a confirmed diagnosis of PPROM and gestational age (GA) at delivery <37 weeks. RESULTS: A total of 299 pregnant women were included in the study. Nine patients evolved to abortion, and 290 pregnant women remained for the final analysis. There was initial diagnostic doubt in 17.6% of the cases. The oligohydramnios rate [amniotic fluid index (AFI) <5] was 27.9% on admission. Chorioamnionitis was initially diagnosed in 10.8% of the patients and was retrospectively confirmed in 22.9% of the samples. The latency period had a mean of 9.1 days. The main reasons for interruption were premature labor (55.2%), GA ≥36 weeks (27.2%), and fetal distress (6.9%). The delivery method was cesarean section in 55% of cases. The mean birth weight was 2,124 grams, and 67% of the neonates had a low birth weight (<2500 g). The GA at delivery averaged 33.5 weeks. The stillbirth rate was 5.3%, and the early neonatal mortality rate was 5.6%. There were complications at delivery in 18% of mothers. CONCLUSION: In one of the few Brazilian reports on the epidemiological profile of PPROM, with GA until 37 weeks and intercurrences generally excluded from assessments (such as twinning and fetal malformations), there is a favorable evolution, with an acceptable rate of complications.

Comunicação da notícia de morte e suporte ao luto de mulheres que perderam filhos recém-nascidos / Communication of death and grief support to the women who have lost a newborn child

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar a comunicação da morte do filho e o apoio ao luto de mulheres no período puerperal. Métodos: Trata-se de uma pesquisa com abordagem qualitativa realizada em uma capital do Nordeste. Foram aplicadas entrevistas semiestruturadas com 15 mulheres cujos recém-nascidos faleceram entre julho de 2012 e julho de 2014. As entrevistas abordaram questões acerca da morte do filho e do processo de luto. Foi realizada Análise de Conteúdo na modalidade temática. Resultados: As mulheres expressaram o sofrimento e a angústia diante da perda do filho, algumas vezes agravados pela forma da comunicação da notícia e pela falta de suporte ofertado para o enfrentamento. Foram encontradas duas categorias empíricas: receber a notícia da morte e voltar para casa de mãos vazias. As equipes não estão preparadas para a comunicação de notícias difíceis nem para o suporte às mulheres que perderam filhos recém-nascidos. Para as mulheres, o apoio recebido pela família e pela religião ajudou no processo de luto. Conclusões: Os resultados indicam a necessidade de capacitação profissional para comunicação de notícias difíceis e suporte ao luto, bem como a formulação de políticas institucionais que apoiem e ofereçam cuidado aos trabalhadores. Além disso, é necessária a articulação com as equipes da atenção básica para a continuidade do cuidado.

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the communication of a child's death and the grief support provided to the women during puerperium. Methods: This is a qualitative study performed at a capital of the Northeast region of Brazil. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with 15 women, whose children died from July 2012 to July 2014. The interviews contained questions about the child's death and the grieving process. The content analysis was performed with a thematic approach. Results: The women expressed the suffering and the anguish of the loss of a child, sometimes aggravated by the way in which the news of death was delivered, and by the lack of support offered in the coping process. Two empirical categories were found: receiving the news of death and going back home empty-handed. The health care teams are not prepared to deliver bad news, nor to give support to women who lose a newborn child. According to the women, the support received from the family and religion helped them in the grieving process. Conclusions: The results indicate the need for professional qualification for the delivery of bad news and for grief support. They also showed the need for institutional policies that offer support to the professionals. Besides, the articulation with the primary health care team is imperative for the continuity of care.

Systemic lupus erythematosus and pregnancy: A single-center observational study of 69 pregnancies / Lúpus eritematoso sistêmico e gravidez: estudo observacional em um único centro com 69 gestações

Abstract Objective To evaluate the effects of pregnancy in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients. Methods The present article is a retrospective cohort study. Datawere collected from medical records of pregnant women with SLE from January 2002 to December 2012 at Universidade Estadual de Campinas, in the city of Campinas, state of São Paulo, Brazil. Systemic lupus erythematosus and disease activity were defined according to the American College of Rheumatology and the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) criteria respectively. The means, standard deviations (SDs), percentages and correlations were performed using the SAS software, version 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, US). Results We obtained data from 69 pregnancies in 58 women. During pregnancy, a new flare was observed in 39.2% (n = 27). The manifestations were most common in patients with prior kidney disease, and mainly occurred during the third quarter and the puerperium. Renal activity occurred in 24.6% (n = 17), and serious activity, in 16% (n = 11). Of all deliveries, 75% (n = 48) were by cesarean section. Twomaternal deaths occurred (3%). Preterm birth was themain complication in the newborns. The abortion rate was 8.7%. Severe SLEDAI during pregnancy was associated with prematurity (100%) and perinatal death (54%). Conclusion Thematernal-fetal outcome is worse in SLE when thewomen experience a flare during pregnancy. The best maternal-fetal outcomes occur when the disease is in remission for at least 6 months before the pregnancy.

Resumo Objetivo Avaliar os efeitos da gravidez em pacientes com lúpus eritematoso sistêmico (LES). Métodos Estudo de coorte retrospectivo. Os dados foram coletados de prontuários de mulheres com LES que engravidaram de janeiro de 2002 a dezembro de 2012 na Universidade Estadual de Campinas, São Paulo, Brasil. Lúpus eritematoso sistêmico e atividade da doença foram definidos segundo o American College of Rheumatology e os critérios doÍndice deAtividadedaDoença de Lúpus Eritematoso (SLEDAI, nasigla eminglês), respectivamente. As médias, os desvios-padrão (DP), as porcentagens e as correlações foram realizados utilizando o software SAS, versão 9.4 (SAS Institute Inc., Cary, NC, US). Resultados Obtivemos dados de 69 gestações em58mulheres. Durante a gravidez, a reatividade da doença foi observada em 39.2% (n = 27). As manifestações mais comuns foram em pacientes com doença renal prévia, e ocorreram principalmente no terceiro trimestre e no puerpério. Atividade renal ocorreu em 24,6% (n = 17), e atividade grave, em 16% (n = 11). De todos os partos, 75% (n = 48) foram por cesariana. Dois óbitos maternos ocorreram (3%). A prematuridade foi a principal complicação nos recém-nascidos. A taxa de aborto foi de 8,7%. O índice SLEDAI grave durante a gestação foi associado à prematuridade (100%) e à morte perinatal (54%). Conclusão O resultado materno-fetal é pior no LES quando as mulheres sofrem crise de reativação durante a gravidez. Os melhores desfechos materno-fetais ocorrem quando a doença está em remissão por pelo menos 6 meses anteriores à gestação.

Radiological findings associated with the death of newborns with necrotizing enterocolitis / Achados radiológicos associados ao óbito de recém-nascidos com enterocolite necrosante

Abstract Objective: The aim of this study was to identify radiological and clinical risk factors for death in newborns with necrotizing enterocolitis. Materials and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study, based on radiological examinations and medical charts of 66 infants with necrotizing enterocolitis, as confirmed by a finding of intestinal pneumatosis (stage IIA, according to modified Bell's staging criteria). Radiological and clinical variables were evaluated. Results: Of the 66 infants evaluated, 14 (21.2%) presented pneumatosis in the large and small bowel; 7 (10.6%) presented air in the portal system; and 12 (18.2%) died. Bivariate analysis revealed that the following variables were associated with death: bowel perforation; pneumatosis in the large and small bowel; air in the portal system; earlier gestational age; longer time on mechanical ventilation before the identification of pneumatosis; and longer time on mechanical ventilation before discharge or death. In the multivariate regression, the following variables remained as predictors of death: pneumatosis in the large and small intestines (odds ratio [OR] = 12.4; 95% confidence interval [95% CI] = 1.2-127.4; p = 0.035), perforation (OR = 23.2; 95% CI = 2.2-246.7; p = 0.009), and air in the portal system (OR = 69.7; 95% CI = 4.3-[not calculated]; p = 0.003). Conclusion: The set of factors most strongly associated with death in infants with necrotizing enterocolitis comprised extensive pneumatosis, pneumoperitoneum, and air in the portal system. Our findings confirm the importance of radiological imaging in the diagnosis and monitoring of necrotizing enterocolitis.

Resumo Objetivo: Determinar fatores de risco radiológicos e clínicos para o desfecho de óbito em recém-nascidos com enterocolite necrosante. Materiais e Métodos: Estudo de coorte retrospectivo de exames radiológicos e prontuários de 66 recém-nascidos com enterocolite necrosante confirmada pela presença de pneumatose intestinal (estágio IIA, segundo os critérios modificados de Bell). Foram estudados achados radiológicos e variáveis clínicas. Resultados: Catorze casos (21,2%) apresentaram pneumatose nos intestinos grosso e delgado, 7 (10,6%) apresentaram ar no sistema porta e 12 (18,2%) faleceram. As análises bivariadas indicaram que as variáveis significativas para o óbito foram: perfuração intestinal, pneumatose localizada nos intestinos grosso e delgado, ar no sistema porta, menor idade gestacional, longos períodos de ventilação mecânica até a identificação da pneumatose e longos períodos de ventilação mecânica até a data de alta/óbito. Na regressão multivariada, mantiveram-se como preditores do óbito: pneumatose localizada nos intestinos grosso e delgado (odds ratio [OR] = 12,4; intervalo de confiança de 95% [IC 95%] = 1,2-127,4; p = 0,035), perfuração (OR = 23,2; IC 95% = 2,2-246,7; p = 0,009) e ar no sistema porta (OR = 69,7; IC 95% = 4,3-não calculado; p = 0,003). Conclusão: Pneumatose extensa, pneumoperitônio e ar no sistema porta compuseram o melhor conjunto de fatores associados ao óbito. Esses achados corroboram a importância da radiografia simples de abdome no diagnóstico e acompanhamento da enterocolite necrosante.

Óbitos fetais e neonatais de filhos de pacientes classificadas com near miss / Óbitos fetales y neonatales de hijos de pacientes clasificados con near miss / Fetal and neonatal deaths of children of patients classified as near miss

RESUMO Objetivo: identificar os aspectos epidemiológicos dos óbitos fetais e neonatais precoces em filhos de pacientes classificadas com near miss e os fatores associados a este desfecho. Método: estudo transversal realizado com 79 mulheres identificadas com near miss e seus recém-nascidos. As variáveis foram analisadas utilizando-se o teste Exato de Fisher. Os fatores de risco foram estimados com base nas razões de chances não ajustadas e ajustadas, e por meio de análise de correspondência múltipla, com significância para p < 0,05. Resultados: as desordens hipertensivas totalizaram 40,5%; destas, 58,3% tiveram desfecho fetal e neonatal adverso. Mostraram-se significantes para o desfecho os recém-nascidos admitidos na Unidade Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (70,8%), idade gestacional < 32 semanas (41,6%), peso ao nascer < 2500 (66,7%), asfixia neonatal (50%) e desconforto respiratório precoce (72,2%). Conclusão: prematuridade, asfixia neonatal e desconforto respiratório precoce constituíram características significantes para o desfecho entre os recém-nascidos.

RESUMEN Objetivo: identificar los aspectos epidemiológicos de los óbitos fetales y neonatales precoces en hijos de pacientes clasificados con near miss y los factores asociados a este desenlace. Método: estudio transversal realizado con 79 mujeres identificadas con near miss y sus recién nacidos. Las variables fueron analizadas utilizando la prueba Exacta de Fisher. Los factores de riesgo fueron estimados con base en las razones de posibilidades no ajustadas y ajustadas, y por intermedio de análisis de correspondencia múltiple, con significación para p < 0,05. Resultados: los desórdenes hipertensivos totalizaron el 40,5%; de los cuales el 58,3% tuvieron desenlace fetal y neonatal adverso. Se han mostrado significativos para el desenlace los recién nacidos admitidos en la Unidad de Terapia Intensiva Neonatal (70,8%), edad gestacional < 32 semanas (41,6%), peso al nacer < 2500 (66,7%), asfixia neonatal (50%) y dificultad respiratoria de inicio precoz (72,2%). Conclusión: prematuridad, asfixia neonatal y dificultad respiratoria de inicio precoz constituyeron características significativas para el desenlace entre los recién nacidos.

ABSTRACT Objective: identify the epidemiological aspects of early fetal and neonatal deaths in children of patients classified with near miss and the factors associated with this outcome. Method: a cross-sectional study of 79 women identified with near miss and their newborns. The variables were analyzed using Fisher’s exact test. Risk factors were estimated based on unadjusted and adjusted odds ratios, and by means of multiple correspondence analysis, with significance for p <0.05. Results: hypertensive disorders totaled 40.5%; Of these, 58.3% had adverse fetal and neonatal outcome. The newborns admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit proved to be significant for the outcome (70.8%), gestational age <32 weeks (41.6%), birth weight <2500 (66.7%), neonatal asphyxia (50%) and early respiratory discomfort (72.2%). Conclusion: prematurity, neonatal asphyxia, and early respiratory distress were significant characteristics for the outcome among newborns.

Spatial patterns of preventable perinatal mortality in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil

ABSTRACT OBJECTIVE To identify the spatial distribution patterns and areas of higher risk of preventable perinatal mortality in the city of Salvador, State of Bahia, Brazil. METHODS We carried out a spatial aggregated study in 2007, considering the weighting areas (census tracts contiguous sets) of Salvador, of which the center and north present low life conditions. Data were obtained from national vital statistics systems and the 2010 Census. Addresses of live births and stillbirths were geocoded by weighting area. The spatial distribution of the perinatal mortality rate was analyzed from thematic maps. Spatial dependence was evaluated by the Global and Local Geary's and Moran's Indexes. RESULTS Crude and smoothed perinatal mortality rates were high in areas situated to the north, west, and in center of Salvador. The smoothed rates in weighting areas ranged from 4.9/1,000 to 22.3/1,000 births. Of all perinatal deaths, 92.1% could have been prevented. We identified spatial dependence for preventable perinatal mortality for care in pregnancy, with neighboring areas with high risk in the north of the city. CONCLUSIONS The preventability potential of perinatal mortality was high in Salvador, in 2007. The spatial distribution pattern with higher rates in disadvantaged areas of the city suggests the existence of social inequalities in health. The characteristics of the process of urban development of Salvador, which has inadequate prenatal care, possibly influenced the magnitude and spatial distribution pattern of this mortality.

Neonate Deaths in the Toilets / 대한법의학회지

Investigating neonatal deaths in the toilets is challenging for forensic pathologists. During the postmortem examination, they should evaluate whether the baby was alive or a stillbirth and determine any causes of death, such as prenatal cause, infection, anatomical abnormalities, birth or other blunt force injury, drowning, and asphyxia. We retrieved two cases of neonatal deaths in the toilets and reviewed their autopsy findings and circumstances. However, findings from the postmortem examination were insignificant. Their lung examinations revealed non-expanded alveoli, and hydrostatic tests were negative. However, the cases cannot be confirmed as stillbirths because of the possibility that they might be alive for a short period of time after birth and then exposed into the water in the toilet or to accidental or non-accidental asphyxia or that they might have died because of neglect. These cases illustrate that the death scene and the associated circumstances should be meticulously and carefully investigated.