Maternal oxygen administration for suspected impaired fetal growth
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Published on: May 5, 2018
1Special Department of Research, Development and Research Training in Human Reproduction, UNDP/UNFPA/WHO/World Bank, World Health Organisation, Geneva 27, Switzerland, CH-1211. gulmezoglum@who.ch
Background:
Fetal hypoxaemia is often a feature of fetal growth impairment. It has been suggested that perinatal outcome after suspected impaired fetal growth might be improved by giving mothers continuous oxygen until delivery.
Objectives:
The objective was to assess the effects of maternal oxygen therapy in suspected impaired fetal growth on fetal growth and perinatal outcome.
Search Strategy:
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register.
Selection Criteria:
Acceptably controlled trials comparing maternal oxygen therapy with no oxygen therapy in suspected impaired fetal growth.
Data Collection And Analysis:
Eligibility and trial quality was assessed.
Main Results:
Two studies involving 62 women were included. Oxygenation compared with no oxygenation was associated with a lower perinatal mortality rate (relative risk 0.41, 95% confidence interval 0.21 to 0.78). However higher gestational age in the oxygenation groups may have accounted for the difference in mortality rates.
Reviewer'S Conclusions:
There is not enough evidence to evaluate the benefits and risks of maternal oxygen therapy for suspected impaired fetal growth.
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