Outcome of induced deliveries in growth-restricted fetuses: second thoughts about the vaginal option

To assess the outcome of induced deliveries with IUGR.

We reviewed the computerized files of parturients who underwent inducted labor because of IUGR (<5th percentile). Outcome assessment included mode of delivery, indication for CS, NICU admissions and 5 min Apgar score. We compared these parameters to a control group of women whose deliveries were induced for other indications.

A total of 836 women with IUGR were included. Mean gestational age and birth weight were 38.2 weeks and 2,114 g, respectively. Overall, 43% of women delivered by non-elective C/S. The rate of non-elective CS for other indications was 12.3% (P < 0.0001) for all deliveries and 23.6% (P < 0.001) for induced deliveries. CS was performed due to non-reassuring FHR in 63% of IUGR fetuses, compared with 27% of all induced deliveries. There were 160 women with IUGR who preferred elective CS. Their newborns' NICU admission and 5 min Apgar score <7 rates were lower than those for induced deliveries (NICU 43.1 and 29.4%, P < 0.05, 5 min Apgar <7 5 and 1%, P < 0.05).

Growth-restricted neonates born after labor induction had higher rates of low Apgar scores and NICU admissions compared to growth restricted neonates delivered by elective C/S. Inductions of labor for IUGR were associated with higher rates of non-elective C/S due to non-reassuring fetal heart rate compared with inductions performed for other indications.