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Am J Perinatol 2005; 22(2): 83-85
DOI: 10.1055/s-2005-837737
Copyright © 2005 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Effects of Nuchal Cord on Birthweight and Immediate Neonatal Outcomes

Joan M. Mastrobattista1 , Lisa M. Hollier1 , Edward R. Yeomans1 , Susan M. Ramin1 , Mary-Clare Day1 , Alfred Sosa1 , Larry C. Gilstrap1  III 
  • 1Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas
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Publication History

Publication Date:
04 February 2005 (online)

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ABSTRACT

Our objective was to ascertain if nuchal cord is associated with adverse neonatal outcomes. Using a retrospective database of term neonates, outcomes were compared among infants with 0, 1, and 2 or more loops of cord encircling the neck. Of 4426 neonates, 3651 served as controls, 691 had one loop, and 84 had two or more loops. There were no significant differences in the mean birthweight, the frequency of nonreassuring fetal heart rate patterns, operative vaginal deliveries, or 5-minute Apgar scores of < 7. The cesarean delivery rate was significantly different among the three groups and was the highest among the group of women whose fetus had no nuchal cord (p < 0.01). A nuchal cord at term is not associated with untoward pregnancy outcomes.

KEYWORDS

Nuchal cord - neonatal outcome - birthweight

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Joan M MastrobattistaM.D. 

Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Sciences, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine

The University of Texas Medical School at Houston, 6431 Fannin, Suite 3.604

Houston, TX 77030-1501

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