Uncontrolled before-after study adding carbetocin in addition to oxytocin decreases blood loss for cesarean section in twin pregnancies.

PURPOSE

To evaluate the effectiveness of adding carbetocin to regular uterotonic agents for prevention of postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) after cesarean section for twin pregnancies.

METHODS

This is a retrospective uncontrolled before-after study done in a tertiary center in Taiwan, 2010-2017. Women with twin pregnancies that underwent cesarean section were enrolled. The control group (n = 114) received oxytocin infusion and direct uterine injection. In addition to these, the study group (n = 127) received 100ug of intravenous carbetocin. Primary endpoint was the change in hemoglobin. Secondary endpoints included risk of PPH and undiagnosed PPH (Hb dropped more than 2 g/dL), blood loss, the need for additional uterotonic maneuvers, and blood transfusion. Hemodynamic changes were also investigated.

RESULTS

After adjusting for confounding factors, the change in Hb (0.35 g/dL, 95% CI: -0.03∼0.74) and incidence of PPH (OR 0.30, 95% CI: 0.03∼3.28) were comparable in both groups. However, women with undiagnosed PPH decreased (OR 0.43, 95% CI:0.22∼0.85). Total blood loss in 24 h after delivery also decreased (-40.33 mL, 95%CI: -80.32∼ -0.34). The use of extra uterotonic medications and the need for blood transfusion did not differ. The systolic blood pressure 4 h after childbirth was higher in the carbetocin group (6.71, 95% CI: 2.27∼11.15).

CONCLUSION

The use of carbetocin in addition to regular uterotonic agents decreased total blood loss and undiagnosed PPH. Also, systolic blood pressure 4 h after childbirth is higher in the carbetocin group. There was no significant difference in hemoglobin change and risk of PPH.