Gestational age at initiation of 17-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P) and recurrent preterm delivery.

Objective: To compare rates of recurrent preterm birth between women starting treatment with 17alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate (17P) at 16-20.9 weeks of gestation versus 21-26.9 weeks.

Acute onset headache complicating labor epidural caused by intrapartum pneumocephalus.

Background: Epidural placement for obstetric anesthesia is a common procedure. Pneumocephalus, the introduction of air into the cranial cavity after epidural placement, is a rare complication encountered when air is used for identification of the epidural space.

Case: A 42-year-old primipara undergoing epidural placement reported sudden onset of severe headache with associated neurologic symptoms and nuchal rigidity.

Significance of accidental extensions in the lower uterine segment during cesarean delivery.

Objectives: This study was undertaken to determine risk factors and perioperative complications associated with accidental extensions in the lower uterine segment during cesarean deliveries (CDs).

Study Design: This is a retrospective chart review of all CDs performed at Jackson Memorial Hospital/University of Miami between the years 1999 and 2002. Operative reports were reviewed to abstract data on the occurrence of extensions.

Elevated plasma endothelial microparticles: preeclampsia versus gestational hypertension.

Objective: Elevated plasma endothelial microparticle levels have been found to be elevated in women with preeclampsia. However, their role in distinguishing preeclampsia from gestational hypertension remains to be elucidated. The objectives of this study were to compare endothelial microparticle levels among patients with preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, and healthy pregnant control subjects and to evaluate the effect of plasma from women with preeclampsia and gestational hypertension on the release of endothelial microparticles by renal microvascular endothelial cells.