https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9740-6300
Abstract
Purpose
Oxytocin is the preferred choice for prophylaxis and treatment of postpartum hemorrhage. Intravenous infusion has been a widely accepted route for Oxytocin administration. However, intravenous bolus route is not a readily preferred route due to apprehensions regarding hypotension that it may cause. This trial compares low dose 3 IU intravenous (IV) bolus Oxytocin along with 7 IU Oxytocin in intravenous infusion to 10IU Oxytocin intravenous infusion during cesarean section.
Patients and Methods
A total of 250 term pregnant women were randomized to either 3 IU intravenous bolus with 7 IU intravenous infusion of Oxytocin or 10IU of intravenous Oxytocin infusion. The difference in pre- and post-operative hemoglobin levels, tone of the uterus, hemodynamic changes, adverse effects of the drug, need for additional uterotonics and need for blood transfusions were assessed.
Results
There was 6.7% less blood loss in the 3 IU IV bolus Oxytocin with 7 IU Oxytocin infusion group in comparison to the Oxytocin infusion group. The tone of the uterus was firmer in IV bolus Oxytocin with Oxytocin infusion group at 5 minutes (p<0.001) than the Oxytocin infusion group. There was no significant difference in the hemodynamic changes, adverse effects or need for blood transfusions.
Conclusion
Intravenous bolus of 3 IU Oxytocin along with 7 IU infusion of Oxytocin is as safe and more effective than intravenous infusion of 10 IU of Oxytocin during cesarean section in the prevention of postpartum hemorrhage.
Data Sharing Statement
The original data can be available by email at any time (Dr Rajasri G Yaliwal [email protected] and Dr Aruna M Biradar [email protected])
Acknowledgments
I would like to thank all the Obstetricians, Anesthesiologists and postgraduate residents of obstetrics and anesthesiology of BLDE (DU) Shri BM Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center who played a vital role in this study.
Disclosure
The authors report no conflicts of interest.