Publications by authors named "P Brocklehurst"
NIHR Open Res
December 2024
Article Synopsis
- Vasa praevia is a serious obstetric condition where fetal vessels are unprotected and can lead to high perinatal mortality if not detected before birth.
- A study in the UK found that the incidence of diagnosed vasa praevia was 6.64 per 100,000 maternities, with significant improvement in outcomes for those diagnosed antenatally compared to those diagnosed during labor.
- The research highlighted that active screening programs in hospitals were crucial for early detection, resulting in better management and lower risks of perinatal death and complications like hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy.
Nat Microbiol
October 2024
Article Synopsis
- Human microbiota begins forming at birth, influenced by maternal and environmental microbes, with core theories suggesting that initial colonizers impact community development.
- Research involving 1,288 UK neonates revealed three distinct gut microbiota profiles, each led by specific microbial species affected by factors like maternal age and ethnicity.
- Bifidobacteria, especially B. breve, were identified as key players in fostering stable gut microbiota and resisting pathogens, supporting their importance as primary colonizers in early life.
Health Technol Assess
August 2024
Article Synopsis
- Second trimester miscarriage and preterm birth are significant issues globally, leading to the use of surgical cervical cerclage to help prevent these outcomes, with a focus on comparing the effectiveness of monofilament versus braided sutures.
- The study aims to determine if monofilament sutures reduce pregnancy loss better than braided ones in women needing cervical cerclage, as bacteria colonization on braided sutures may contribute to complications.
- Conducted across 75 UK maternity sites, this open randomized controlled trial includes women with specific risk factors for preterm birth and evaluates outcomes like miscarriage rates and perinatal mortality through a 1:1 randomization process.
