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Pre-caesarean section haemoglobin: a worthless investigation.
J R Allsop1, J J Morrison, A Prentice
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Rosie Maternity Hospital, Cambridge, UK.
International Journal of Obstetric Anesthesia
|April 1, 1996
Summary
Routine pre-operative hemoglobin measurement before caesarean sections may be unnecessary. A third-trimester hemoglobin level accurately predicts levels at term, potentially saving costs and resources.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Hematology
Background:
- Hemoglobin concentration is routinely measured before caesarean sections and for anemia screening in early pregnancy.
- The clinical utility of repeat hemoglobin measurements immediately before term delivery is questioned.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if a normal hemoglobin concentration in early pregnancy predicts hemoglobin levels at term delivery.
- To determine if repeat hemoglobin testing before caesarean section provides additional useful information.
Main Methods:
- A study of 106 patients undergoing elective (n=45) and emergency (n=61) caesarean sections.
- Comparison of hemoglobin concentrations measured in early third trimester with those measured immediately before surgery at term.
Main Results:
- In most patients (elective and emergency), hemoglobin concentration increased by term.
- A minority of patients experienced a fall in hemoglobin, with the largest drop being 1.3 g/dl.
- No clinically significant changes in hemoglobin were observed, with the lowest term value at 10.1 g/dl.
Conclusions:
- Hemoglobin levels measured early in the third trimester can guide peri-operative management for caesarean sections.
- Routine pre-operative hemoglobin testing before caesarean section may not be necessary, offering potential financial savings.