Characterization of antithrombin levels in pregnancy.

Objective: To characterize antithrombin (AT) levels in normal pregnancy.

Methods: We performed secondary analyses with data from 3 studies. Using a single measurement from each subject in the first analysis (cross-sectional), we correlated AT levels with gestational age from the middle of the second trimester throughout the third trimester of pregnancy.

Lack of genomic imprinting of DNA primase, polypeptide 2 (PRIM2) in human term placenta and white blood cells.

PRIM2, encoding a subunit of primase involved in DNA replication and transcription, is expressed in the placenta and is crucial for mammalian development and growth. Its role in placental function is not well understood. Recently, PRIM2 was reported as imprinted in human white blood cells (WBC).

Near-miss maternal mortality: cardiac dysfunction as the principal cause of obstetric intensive care unit admissions.

Objective: Evaluation of "near-miss" maternal mortality is a robust surveillance method to assess the quality of obstetric care and determinants of poor maternal outcome. To evaluate near-miss maternal mortality, we examined patient characteristics and maternal and neonatal outcomes for an obstetric population admitted to intensive care units (ICUs) in a tertiary care center.

Methods: Pregnant and postpartum patients admitted to Duke University Medical Center ICUs from January 2005 to April 2011 were enrolled.

Body mass index and severe postpartum hemorrhage.

Background/aims: The purpose of this study was to determine the relationship between maternal characteristics and severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH).

Methods: Medical records of women who delivered at Duke University Hospital between 2001 and 2004 with an ICD-9 code for PPH were reviewed. Women with PPH who received blood component therapy (severe PPH) were selected as cases and compared with controls matched for age, parity and mode of delivery.

Oxytocin exposure during labor among women with postpartum hemorrhage secondary to uterine atony.

Objective: We sought to determine if women with severe postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) secondary to uterine atony received greater amounts of oxytocin during labor compared to women without PPH.

Study Design: Subjects with severe PPH secondary to uterine atony, who received a blood transfusion, were compared to matched controls. Total oxytocin exposure was calculated as the area under the concentration curve (mU/min*min).

Blood component therapy in postpartum hemorrhage.

Background: The purpose of this study was to examine blood component therapy in the treatment of postpartum hemorrhage.

Study Design And Methods: Records were reviewed for subjects who delivered during the 5-year period between January 1, 2000, and December 31, 2004, at Duke University Medical Center and had postpartum hemorrhage coded as International Classification of Diseases Version 9 (ICD-9) codes 666.0 X, 666.