A first look at chorioamnionitis management practice variation among US obstetricians

Area of Science:

• Obstetrics and Gynecology
• Infectious Diseases in Pregnancy
• Clinical Practice Patterns

Background:

• Chorioamnionitis is a common intra-amniotic infection.
• Standardized diagnostic and treatment protocols are lacking.
• Variability in clinical practice may impact patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate current diagnostic and treatment practices for chorioamnionitis among US obstetricians.
• To identify factors influencing management strategies for chorioamnionitis.
• To assess the extent of variation in chorioamnionitis care.

Main Methods:

• A mail-based survey was distributed to members of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
• The survey queried demographics, practice setting, and chorioamnionitis management.
• Univariable and multivariable analyses were performed on returned surveys.

Main Results:

• A 53.8% response rate was achieved, with 212 surveys analyzed.
• Most respondents practice in group settings, manage over 100 deliveries annually, and have >10 years of experience.
• Significant variation exists in diagnostic criteria, antibiotic regimens, and postpartum treatment duration.

Conclusions:

• Contemporary clinical practices for chorioamnionitis diagnosis and treatment exhibit wide variation.
• This variability may stem from a lack of high-level evidence.
• Future clinical trials are needed to establish evidence-based recommendations for chorioamnionitis management.