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Background and objective Severe preeclampsia may be managed expectantly before 34 weeks gestation with close surveillance. Utilized in fetal growth restriction (FGR), evidence supports umbilical artery (UA) Doppler preventing neonatal morbidity from hypertensive disease and predicting adverse outcomes in preeclampsia. We evaluated the association of abnormal UA Doppler waveforms with early delivery (before 34 weeks gestation) and adverse maternal-fetal outcomes in patients with early severe preeclampsia without FGR. Methodology This is a retrospective cohort study of singleton pregnancies with International Classification of Diseases (ICD) Ninth or Tenth Revision, defined severe preeclampsia diagnosed before 34 weeks gestation without FGR from January 1, 2018, through January 27, 2023, at a large tertiary care center where S/D ratios were calculated from UA Doppler interrogation of a free loop of cord at least once weekly. This study was approved by the IRB (ID:00002216) and granted a full Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) waiver of consent. Exclusion criteria were major congenital anomalies, congenital infection, aneuploidy, leaving against medical advice >24 hours, and patient instability on admission defined as condition(s) precluding expectant management by the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology. The primary outcome was delivery before 34 weeks gestation. Secondary outcomes were the mode of delivery and maternal/fetal complications. Patient characteristics and outcomes for normal versus abnormal UA Doppler groups were compared with chi-square, t-tests, and Fisher's exact test. Odds ratios and relative risks were calculated to compare outcomes. Results Of 194 patients with severe preeclampsia, 107 met inclusion criteria. Thirty-four patients had abnormal UA Doppler studies. There were no differences in demographic and clinical data between patients with normal and abnormal UA Doppler studies. Patients with abnormal UA Doppler studies were more likely to deliver before 34 weeks (OR=3.91; 95% CI 1.24-12.33) for worsening severe features (OR=3.85; 95% CI 1.42-10.41), and were less likely to deliver vaginally (OR=0.12; 95% CI 0.03-0.54). Abnormal UA Doppler studies were associated with an increased risk of neonatal complications (OR=6.46; 95% CI 1.42-29.42) and respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) (OR=4.75; 95% CI 1.32-17.16). Abnormal UA Doppler subgroups were divided into patients with elevated S/D >95% Acharya (N=22) and absent end-diastolic flow (EDF) (N=10). The elevated S/D group tended to deliver before 34 weeks gestation for worsening severe features (OR=3.71, 95% CI 1.144-12.050) and had a higher risk of neonatal complications (RR 1.404; 95% CI 1.213-1.624). The absent EDF subgroup was more likely to deliver before 34 weeks (RR=1.52; 95% CI 1.29-1.79) for abnormal fetal testing (OR=6.92; 95% CI 1.71-28.08) and undergo primary cesarean delivery (OR=7.23; 95% CI 1.43-36.61). Conclusion Pregnancies with severe preeclampsia without FGR displayed a high incidence of abnormal UA Doppler waveforms associated with loss of clinical stability and adverse fetal outcomes. The groups with more impedance to umbilical artery flow tended to deliver earlier, and as the Doppler shifted from elevated S/D to absent end-diastolic flow, the mode of delivery shifted to cesarean delivery with increased risk of abnormal fetal testing. These results support the utility of UA Doppler surveillance in severe preeclampsia.

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Benign uterine tumors, known as leiomyomas or uterine fibroids, can result in severe pain, bleeding, and infertility. They impact a woman's overall well-being, ability to conceive, and the course of her pregnancy. Fibroids are associated with increasing maternal age. When a patient with fibroids is considering pregnancy, ultrasonography and a detailed pelvic examination should be performed to determine the size and location of any fibroids. This case study details a 30-year-old female patient who had fibroids during her pregnancy and responded well to treatment.

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BACKGROUND: Obstetric ultrasound is considered important for determining gestational age, identifying single or multiple pregnancies, locating the placenta and fetal anomalies and monitoring fetal growth and pregnancy-related complications in order to improve patient management. OBJECTIVES: To explore health professionals' perspectives on different aspects of obstetric ultrasound in Tanzania regarding self-reported skills in performing ultrasound examinations and what could improve access to and utilization of obstetric ultrasound in the clinical setting. DESIGN: Cross-sectional study. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Data was collected between November and December 2017 using a questionnaire based on previous qualitative research results from the CROss Country UltraSound Study (CROCUS Study). Seventeen healthcare facilities in 5 urban and semiurban municipalities in the Dar-es-Salaam region were included, with 636 health professionals participating (physicians, n = 307 and midwives/nurses, n = 329). RESULTS: Most health professionals (82% physicians, 81% midwives/nurses) believed that obstetric ultrasound was decisive in the clinical management of pregnancy. Results indicate proficiency gaps across disciplines: 51% of physicians and 48.8% of midwives/nurses reported no or low-level skills in assessing cervical length. Similarly, deficiencies were observed in evaluating the four-chamber view of the fetal heart (physicians: 51%, midwives/nurses: 61%), aorta, pulmonary artery (physicians: 60.5%, midwives/nurses: 65%) and Doppler assessments (umbilical artery: physicians 60.6%, midwives/nurses 56.1%). Compared to midwives/nurses, physicians were significantly more likely to agree or strongly agree that utilization would improve with more ultrasound machines (odds ratio (OR) 2.13; 95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.26-3.61), better quality of ultrasound machines (OR 2.27; 95% CI 1.10-4.69), more training for health professionals currently performing ultrasound (OR 2.11; 95% CI 1.08-4.17) and more physicians trained in ultrasound (OR 2.51; 95% CI 1.30-4.87). CONCLUSIONS: Improving the provision of obstetric ultrasound examinations in Tanzania requires more and better-quality ultrasound machines, enhanced training for health professionals and an increased number of physicians trained in ultrasound use. To further increase the accessibility and utilization of obstetric ultrasound in maternity care in Tanzania, it is essential to provide training for midwives in basic obstetric ultrasound techniques.

A study reporting on health professionals' insights and skills regarding pregnancy scans in TanzaniaThis study, conducted in Tanzania, explores health professionals' perspectives on obstetric ultrasound, an important component believed to increase antenatal care attendance in low-income countries. The research was carried out through a cross-sectional study involving 636 health professionals, primarily physicians and midwives/nurses, to assess their self-reported skills in performing obstetric ultrasound examinations and identify factors that could enhance access to and utilization of obstetric ultrasound in clinical settings. The findings highlight that most health professionals view obstetric ultrasound as crucial in managing pregnancy. However, there is a notable discrepancy in the perceived skills between physicians and midwives/nurses, especially in basic obstetric ultrasound examinations. A majority of health professionals reported either no skills or low-level skills in assessing various aspects like cervical length, fetal heart (four-chamber views), aorta, pulmonary artery and Doppler (umbilical artery). The study suggests that improving access and utilization of obstetric ultrasound could be achieved through increased availability of quality ultrasound machines and enhanced training. Physicians expressed a stronger belief in the positive impact of more ultrasound machines, better machine quality, additional training for current ultrasound examiners and more physicians trained in ultrasound. The data underscores the potential for enhancing obstetric ultrasound provision in Tanzania by investing in better technology, providing more training for healthcare professionals and increasing the number of physicians skilled in ultrasound use. Furthermore, the study recommends targeted training for midwives to enhance their proficiency in basic obstetric ultrasound, ultimately contributing to improved accessibility and utilization of obstetric ultrasound in maternity care in Tanzania.

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AIMS: To monitor fetal size and identify predictors for birthweight in women with gestational diabetes (GDM) and normal glucose tolerance (NGT). METHODS: Cohort study of 1843 women universally screened for GDM, with routine ultrasounds each trimester. Women with GDM and NGT were categorized in subgroups by birthweight centile. RESULTS: Of the total cohort, 231 (12.5%) women were diagnosed with GDM. Fetal size, incidence of large-for-gestational age (LGA: 12.3% of GDM vs. 12.9% of NGT, p = 0.822) and small-for-gestational age (SGA) neonates (4.8% of GDM vs. 5.1% of NGT, p = 0.886) were similar between GDM and NGT. GDM women with LGA neonates were more insulin resistant at baseline and had more often estimated fetal weight (EFW) ≥ P90 on the 28-33 weeks ultrasound (p = 0.033) than those with AGA (appropriate-for-gestational age) neonates. Compared to NGT women with AGA neonates, those with LGA neonates were more often obese and multiparous, had higher fasting glycemia, a worse lipid profile, and higher insulin resistance between 24 -28 weeks, with more often excessive gestational weight gain. On the 28-33 weeks ultrasound, abdominal circumference ≥ P95 had a high positive predictive value for LGA neonates in GDM (100%), whereas, in both GDM and NGT, EFW ≥ P90 and ≤ P10 had a high negative predictive value for LGA and SGA neonates (> 88%), respectively. CONCLUSIONS: There were no differences in fetal size throughout pregnancy nor in LGA incidence between GDM and NGT women. EFW centile at 28-33 weeks correlated well with birthweight. This indicates that GDM treatment is effective and targeted ultrasound follow-up is useful. TRIAL REGISTRATION CLINICALTRIALS.GOV: NCT02036619. Registration date: January 15, 2014. https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT02036619 .

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OBJECTIVES: Increased fetal lung heterogeneity has been associated with term fetal lungs in singleton gestations. The objective of this study was to determine if fetal lung heterogeneity index (HI) differs between twin and singleton fetuses in the late second and third trimesters. METHODS: Prospective cohort study of women with singleton and twin gestations with medically-indicated ultrasound examinations at 24 weeks of gestation onward. Grayscale transverse fetal lung images were obtained at the level of the four-chamber heart. A region of interest was selected in each fetal lung image. Fetal lung HI was determined with MATLAB software using a dithering technique with ultrasound image pixels transformed into a binary map form from which a dynamic range value was determined. HI averages and standard deviations were generated for twin and singleton fetuses from 24 weeks gestation onward. Two sample t-tests were used to compare the mean HI at each gestational week between singleton and twin fetuses. RESULTS: In total, 388 singleton and 478 twin images were analyzed. From 35 through 38 weeks of gestation a statistically significant divergence in mean HI was observed with higher means in singleton compared to twin fetuses. At 24 weeks of gestation there was a significantly higher HI in twin fetuses compared to singletons. No differences in fetal lung HI were observed between 25 and 34 weeks gestational age. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in fetal lung HI were observed when comparing twin and singleton fetuses. Further investigation is required to determine the potential clinical significance of these findings.

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OBJECTIVE: To identify whether conventional methods of estimating fetal growth (Hadlock's formula), which relies heavily on abdominal circumference measurements, are accurate in fetuses with gastroschisis. METHODS: A retrospective cohort study was performed between the period January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2021 in a tertiary referral maternity hospital identifying all pregnancies with a diagnosis of gastroschisis. Projected fetal weight was obtained using the formula (EFW [Hadlock's formula] + 185 g × [X/7]) where X was the number of days to delivery. RESULTS: During the study period 41 cases were identified. The median maternal age was 25. The median BMI was 25 and 63% were primiparous women (n = 26). Median gestation at diagnosis was 21 weeks. Median gestation at delivery was 36 weeks. A total of 4.8% of mothers had a history of drug use (n = 2). The rate of maternal tobacco use was 21.9% (n = 9). A total of 4.8% of fetuses had additional congenital anomalies including amniotic band syndrome and myelomeningocele (n = 2). Estimated fetal weight (EFW) and birth weight data were available for 34 cases. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test showed projected EFW using Hadlock's formula did not result in a statistically significant different birth weight (Z = -1.3, P = 0.169). Median projected weight and actual birth weight were 2241.35 and 2415 g respectively. Median difference was 0.64 g (95% CI: -148 to -28.5). CONCLUSION: Our data showed accuracy using standard formulae for EFW in fetuses with gastroschisis.

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Introducción: El debriefing es una técnica que permite mejorar los resultados en el proceso de aprendizaje a través de un proceso de reflexión y retroalimentación. El objetivo del estudio es comparar la efectividad del debriefing frente al modelo tradicional de enseñanza para mejorar el cumplimiento de calidad en ultrasonido obstétrico. Sujetos y métodos: Se evaluaron los resultados del control de calidad de 45 médicos recién egresados de diplomados de ultrasonido durante tres meses. Los médicos fueron divididos en dos grupos para llevar a cabo la retroalimentación de áreas de oportunidad: el grupo de control sólo recibió educación a través del modelo tradicional y el grupo de intervención recibió retroalimentación con metodología de debriefing. Resultados: Al comparar, ambos métodos mostraron ser efectivos para la mejora global del cumplimiento de calidad (42,9% el tradicional; p = 0,0083; 75% el de debriefing; p = 0,0002). El grupo de debriefing fue significativamente mejor en los rubros de calidad global (el 56,7 frente al 38,1%; p = 0,009 frente a p = 0,0432) y error de medición (el 88,1 frente al 68,7%, con significancia estadística; p = 0,349). Conclusión: Ambas técnicas de retroalimentación tuvieron un impacto positivo para la mejora del cumplimiento de la calidad en estudios de ultrasonido obstétrico, y la técnica de debriefing mostró ventajas significativas sobre el modelo deenseñanza tradicional en la retroalimentación de las áreas de oportunidad detectadas.(AU)

Introduction: Debriefing is a technique to improve learning outcomes through a process of reflection and feedback. The aim of the study is to compare the effectiveness of debriefing vs. the traditional teaching model to improve quality compliance in obstetric ultrasound. Subjects and methods: Forty-five recent graduates of ultrasound diploma courses were evaluated during three months of quality control. The physicians were divided into two groups to carry out feedback on areas of opportunity: the control group only received education through the traditional model and the intervention group, which received feedback with debriefing methodology. Results: When compared, both methods were shown to be effective for the overall improvement of quality compliance (42.9% traditional, p = 0.0083, 75% debriefing, p = 0.0002). The debriefing group was significantly better in the areas of overall quality (56.7% vs. 38.1%, p = 0.0090 vs. p = 0.0432), measurement error (88.1% vs. 68.7%, with statistical significance p = 0.349). Conclusion: Both feedback techniques offered positive results for the improvement of quality compliance in obstetric ultrasound studies, with the debriefing technique showing significant advantages over the traditional teaching model in the feedback of detected areas of opportunity.(AU)

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INTRODUCTION: Fetal intrapericardial teratoma is a rare tumor that can be diagnosed by antenatal ultrasonography early in pregnancy. CASE PRESENTATION: A fetal intrapericardial teratoma was detected on routine ultrasonography in the second trimester of pregnancy. At 31 weeks gestation, a marked increase in tumor size, fetal ascites, and pericardial effusion were observed, indicating that preterm delivery would be inevitable. Corticosteroid prophylaxis (24 mg of betamethasone in two doses of 12 mg 24 h apart) initiated for prophylaxis of respiratory distress syndrome led to a reduction in fetal ascites and pericardial effusion. Betamethasone therapy (4 mg/per day) was continued with the aim to postpone the expected date of delivery. Gestation was extended for more than 2 weeks. At 33 weeks and 5 days gestation, the neonate was delivered by elective cesarean section with ex utero intrapartum treatment and immediately submitted to fetal cardiac surgery. The infant was discharged from the hospital in good health about 4 months later. CONCLUSION: The present report draws attention to improvement in fetal status and extension of gestation achieved with maternal low-dose corticosteroid therapy on antenatal ultrasound finding of fetal ascites and pericardial effusion due to intrapericardial teratoma.

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BACKGROUND: Obstetric ultrasound is a non-invasive imaging modality that uses sound waves to provide a real-time image of the foetus. Women's knowledge of and attitudes toward ultrasound are suggested to influence their responses, and a variety of barriers also influence their practices. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitude, barriers, and associated factors of obstetric ultrasound among pregnant women in public hospitals in Addis Ababa. METHODS AND MATERIALS: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 422 pregnant women from July to August 2021 using systematic random sampling. A structured questionnaire was employed, entered into Epi Info 7.2, and analysed in SPSS 23. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to identify associated factors. RESULT: The proportion with good knowledge of obstetric ultrasound was 51.4%, and that with positive attitudes was 70.1%. Women with a degree and above (AOR 2.70; 95% CI 0.21-35.23), government employment (AOR 3.901; 95% CI 1.92-7.90), and previous ultrasound exposure (AOR 1.966; 95% CI 1.24-3.12) were significantly associated with knowledge. Government-employed women (AOR 6.83; 95% CI 2.43-19.18), women with 1000-5000birr in household income (AOR 5.31; 95% CI 2.01-14.03), and women with a history of births with congenital anomalies (AOR 21.07; 95% CI 2.09-21.21) were significantly associated with the attitude toward obstetric ultrasound. Participants in the study expressed a variety of barriers that influenced their practices; long waiting time was the most common (77.3%). CONCLUSION: Pregnant women's levels of knowledge and attitudes towards obstetric ultrasound were moderately good. However, there were a variety of barriers, including patient privacy, waiting time, handling, and side effects, that influenced the utilisation of ultrasound.

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Introducción: La valoración ultrasonográfica del peso fetal permite valorar el crecimiento y bienestar fetal pudiendo estimar el peso al nacimiento, factor determinante para el pronóstico vital. Objetivos: Determinar el margen de error ecográfico del peso fetal estimado (PFE) en relación con el peso al nacer de los neonatos de la Maternidad del Hospital de Clínicas entre los años 2020 y 2022 Materiales y Métodos: Se realizó un estudio observacional, descriptivo y transversal en mujeres que tuvieron un parto en el lugar y el período mencionado, y que contaban con ecografía obstétrica de crecimiento realizada con menos de 7 días respecto al nacimiento. Se calculó el error del PFE mediante la fórmula: (Peso al Nacer - Peso Fetal Estimado) / Peso al Nacer) x 100. Se contrastó el error del peso fetal estimado con el índice de masa corporal, diabetes y estados hipertensivos del embarazo, utilizando t de Student y con la edad gestacional y edad materna mediante el índice de Pearson tomando valores estadísticamente significativos menores a 0,05. Resultados: Se incluyeron 258 pacientes. El margen de error ecográfico del PFE fue de 8,3% DE ± 7. Se obtuvo un valor p para el IMC de 0,228, diabetes p 0,915, estados hipertensivos p 0,967, días en que se realizaba la ecografía p 0,5 y edad gestacional el p 0,001. Conclusiones: El margen de error ecográfico del PFE se encuentra por debajo de los parámetros internacionales. Se encontró asociación estadísticamente significativa con la edad gestacional, no así con las otras variables.

Introduction: Ultrasonographic assessment of fetal weight allows assessment of fetal growth and well-being and can estimate birth weight, a determining factor for vital prognosis. Objectives: Determine the ultrasound margin of error of the estimated fetal weight (EFP) in relation to the birth weight of neonates at the Maternity Hospital of the Hospital de Clínicas between the years 2020 and 2022. Materials and Methods: An observational, descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out on women who had their birth in the aforementioned place and period and who had an obstetric growth ultrasound performed less than 7 days after birth. The error of the EPF was calculated using the formula: (Birth Weight - Estimated Fetal Weight) / Birth Weight) x 100. The error of the estimated fetal weight was contrasted with the body mass index, diabetes and hypertensive state of pregnancy, using Student's t and with gestational age and maternal age using the Pearson index taking statistically significant values ​​less than 0.05. Results: 258 patients were included. The ultrasound margin of error of the EPF was 8.3% SD ± 7. A p value was obtained for BMI of 0.228, diabetes p 0.915, hypertensive states p 0.967, days in which the ultrasound was performed p 0.5 and age gestational p 0.001. Conclusions: The ultrasound margin of error of the EPF is below the international parameters. Statistically significant associations were found with gestational age, but not with the other variables.

Introdução: A avaliação ultrassonográfica do peso fetal permite avaliar o crescimento e bem-estar fetal e pode estimar o peso ao nascer, fator determinante para o prognóstico vital. Objetivos: Determinar a margem de erro ultrassonográfica do peso fetal estimado (PFE) em relação ao peso ao nascer dos neonatos atendidos na Maternidade do Hospital de Clínicas entre os anos de 2020 e 2022. Materiais e Métodos: Foi realizado um estudo observacional, descritivo e transversal com mulheres que tiveram o parto no local e período mencionados e que realizaram ultrassonografia obstétrica de crescimento menos de 7 dias após o nascimento. O erro do PFE foi calculado pela fórmula: (Peso ao Nascer - Peso Fetal Estimado) / Peso ao Nascer) x 100. O erro do peso fetal estimado foi contrastado com o índice de massa corporal, diabetes e estado hipertensivo da gestação, utilizando-se o teste de Student. t e com idade gestacional e idade materna utilizando o índice de Pearson assumindo valores estatisticamente significativos menores que 0,05. Resultados: foram incluídos 258 pacientes. A margem de erro ultrassonográfica do PFE foi de 8,3% DP ± 7. Obteve-se valor de p para IMC de 0,228, diabetes p 0,915, estados hipertensivos p 0,967, dias em que foi realizada a ultrassonografia p 0,5 e idade gestacional p 0,001. Conclusões: A margem de erro ultrassonográfica do PFE está abaixo dos parâmetros internacionais. Foram encontradas associações estatisticamente significativas com a idade gestacional, mas não com as demais variáveis.

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Introduction The maternity care curriculum guidelines of the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) state that family medicine residents (FMRs) should demonstrate the ability to independently perform limited obstetric ultrasound (OBUS) examinations as a core skill. This study's purpose is to examine whether basic OBUS training enhances the knowledge and confidence of FMRs in performing OBUS. Methods This is a Sparrow Institutional Review Board (IRB)-exempt prospective study that was completed at the Sparrow/Michigan State University (MSU) Family Medicine Residency Program (FMRP) in Michigan between December 2020 and December 2021, involving 40 residents. Assessment of knowledge and confidence in performing OBUS was completed prior to and following the training sessions. For training, an online lecture and two separate hands-on sessions with a pregnant patient were completed. Training materials by Prof. Dr. Mark Deutchman and the University of Washington (UoW) were used. Paired T-test was used for statistical analysis, and a p-value of <0.05 was used to determine statistical significance. Results Thirty-two pre- and 25 post-training questionnaires were collected from the target group. Of the respondents, 92% (n=23) indicated that training increased their confidence levels in performing OBUS. The percentage of reported confidence level of 1 or 2 in performing OBUS (on a Likert scale of 5, with 5 as the highest confidence level) decreased by 60% post-training (p<0.001). Levels 3, 4, and 5 in confidence level were increased. According to the respondents, an increased confidence level in OBUS is helpful for improving trust and rapport between the provider and the patient (92%, n=23), boosting the provider's diagnostic abilities (80%, n=20), improving patient satisfaction (76%, n=19), and decreasing healthcare costs (44%, n=11). Conclusion The basic OBUS training sessions improved the knowledge and confidence of residents in interpreting and performing OBUS; therefore, more OBUS training is needed during the residency.

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OBJECTIVE: We assessed the accuracy of two portable ultrasound machines (PUM) in obtaining fetal biometry and estimating gestational age. METHODS: We analyzed data from the Fetal Age Machine Learning Initiative, an observational study of pregnant women in the United States and Zambia. Each participant underwent assessment by an experienced sonographer using both a high-specification ultrasound machine (HSUM) and a PUM (either Butterfly iQ or Clarius C3) to measure fetal biometry and calculate estimated gestational age (EGA) at each visit. Through comparison of paired PUM-HSUM scans, we estimated agreement between individual biometry measurements and aggregate gestational age estimates by reporting mean difference, along with intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and Bland-Altman plots, adjusting for trend. RESULTS: 881 participants contributed 1386 paired PUM-HSUM ultrasound studies between April and December 2021. PUM studies included 991 Butterfly and 395 Clarius. Gestational age at scan ranged from 7 to 38 weeks. Compared to HSUM, the Butterfly PUM had a mean difference of -0.20 days (95%CI±0.40) in the 1st trimester and -0.68 days (95%CI±0.68) in the 2nd/3rd trimesters. Also compared to HSUM, the Clarius PUM had a mean difference of 0.47 days (95%CI±0.64) in the 1st trimester and -1.67 days (95%CI±0.43) in the 2nd/3rd trimesters. ICCs were 0.989 or greater throughout. Increasing gestational age was associated with increasing error and absolute error. Both PUM devices demonstrated a modest trend toward underestimation of EGA at advancing gestational ages in 2nd/3rd trimester scans, compared to HSUM. CONCLUSION: Both the Butterfly iQ and Clarius C3 PUM devices were highly accurate in performing fetal biometry in a diverse population from the US and Zambia. This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved.

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INTRODUCTION: Ultrasound scan is one of the essential assessments that is crucial in the early identification of health risks during antenatal care. Its accessibility to women in low-and middle-income countries remains a serious challenge because ultrasound scans are not within the scope of practice for midwives. However, task shifting and extension of scope of practice aim to train midwives to assess pregnant women through an ultrasound scan. This paper aims to report the findings of a scoping review on the training of midwives to perform obstetric ultrasound scans in Africa. METHODS: The 6-step iterative framework for scoping reviews by Arksey and O'Malley was used to determine the extent of qualitative and quantitative evidence available on the training of midwives on obstetric ultrasound scans, which includes specifying the research question, identifying relevant studies, selecting studies, extracting and charting data, collating, summarising, and synthesising and reporting findings. RESULTS: A total of 12 articles from eight African countries were included in this scoping review. Three main themes and 13 sub-themes emerged and they are: obstetric ultrasound scan training, challenges experienced by midwives from task shifting and extension of scope of practice regarding obstetric ultrasound scan, and the value of task shifting and extension of scope of practice regarding obstetric ultrasound scan to midwives. DISCUSSION: Despite the available evidence that the training of midwives on obstetric ultrasound scans is essential to ensure the accessibility of quality antenatal health services, the training of midwives on obstetric ultrasound scans in some African countries remains a serious challenge. It is evident from this scoping review results that there is a need for African countries to incorporate obstetric ultrasound scans as part of the scope of practice of midwives. Task shifting necessitates prioritising the training of midwives on the use of obstetric ultrasound scans as one of the steps towards the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal number 3 targets by 2030.

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BACKGROUND: Point of care ultrasound training has been successfully implemented in some settings. This has been done due to a shortage of radiology human resource gap especially in the rural areas of low-resource settings. The purpose of the study was to implement a point of care obstetric ultrasound training program for midwives and nurses and explore their experiences following the training at a rural based hospital in Uganda. METHODS: It was an exploratory qualitative study with some elements of implementation research design involving midwives and nurses that had undergone obstetric ultrasound training at Kiwoko hospital, a rural-based hospital in Uganda. Purposive sampling was used to select twenty-five midwives and nurses. These participants underwent a 6-weeks training in point of care obstetric ultrasound. Following the training, in-depth interviews were conducted to obtain the experiences of the participants. RESULTS: The training was conducted by qualified radiologists and sonographers and it involved both didactic sessions and rigorous practical and clinical demonstrations and eventually real-time scanning of the women. Three key themes emerged from the interviews: (1) Gaining important obstetric ultrasound skills, (2) Improving management of pregnant women and (3) Positive for task-shifting. CONCLUSION: The point of care obstetric ultrasound training program was successfully implemented at Kiwoko Hospital. The trainees reported positive experiences from the training and while only conducted at one rural health facility, the overwhelmingly positive experience from trainees underscores the importance of point of care obstetric ultrasound in delivering imaging services.

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BACKGROUND: In rural Nepal, where women face financial and geographic barriers in accessing ultrasound scans, the government initiated a Rural Obstetric Ultrasound Program (ROUSG) to train skilled birth attendants (SBAs) in rural birthing centers and expand access to routine ultrasound scans for local pregnant women. This study explores the perceived benefits and limitations of the training and implementation of this program. METHODS: A qualitative study was conducted in 15 primary care facilities in Bhojpur and Dhading, two rural districts of Nepal. The research team conducted in-depth interviews with 15 trained SBAs and focus group discussions with 48 service recipients and 30 FCHVs to gain insight into their perceptions. All interviews and focus group discussions were recorded, reviewed, and manually coded into MS Excel. RESULTS: Overall, our findings indicated that the ROUSG program was very well received among all our study participants, though critical gaps were identified, mostly during the training of the SBAs. These included insufficient guidance or practice opportunities during training and the challenges of implementing the mobile obstetric ultrasound service. Most importantly, though, our results suggest that the implementation of the ROUSG program increased access to prenatal care, earlier identification and referrals for abnormal scans, as well as reduced pregnancy-related stress. There was also a notable anecdotal increase in antenatal care utilization and institutional deliveries, as well as high satisfaction in both service providers and recipients. CONCLUSION: Our findings highlighted that while the training component could use some strengthening with increased opportunities for supervised practice sessions and periodic refresher training after the initial 21-days, the program itself had the potential to fill crucial gaps in maternal and newborn care in rural Nepal, by expanding access not only to ROUSG services but also to other MNH services such as ANC and institutional deliveries. Our findings also support the use of ultrasound in areas with limited resources as a solution to identify potential complications at earlier stages of pregnancy and improve timely referrals, indicating the potential for reducing maternal and neonatal morbidities. This initial study supports further research into the role ROUSG can play in expanding critical MNH services in underserved areas and improving broader health outcomes through earlier identification of potential obstetric complications.

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Fetal intestinal volvulus is a rare condition that can lead to hemorrhage, bowel necrosis, and urgent surgical treatment after birth. Thus, prompt diagnosis and treatment are essential to avoiding fetal or neonatal demise. Prenatal ultrasound is a keystone tool in the diagnostic course. However, sonographic findings tend to be non-specific, with limited understanding of the pathophysiology behind their atypical presentation. With a literature review and a case series, we aim to optimize the antenatal diagnosis and management of this rare but life-threatening condition. Six cases from our institution were retrospectively analyzed over 12 years. A literature review was conducted until December 2022. A total of 300 articles matched the keyword "Fetal volvulus", and 52 studies were eligible for the review. Our 6 cases are added to the 107 cases reported in the literature of fetal intestinal volvulus with antenatal ultrasound assessment and without associated gastroschisis or omphalocele. Several prenatal symptoms and ultrasound markers, even if not specific, were more frequently reported. Different experiences of management were described regarding follow-up, the timing of delivery, the mode of delivery, and surgery outcomes. This paper highlights the importance of suspecting and assessing fetal volvulus at routine ultrasound scans, describing the most frequent antenatal presentations and management in order to improve fetal and neonatal outcomes.

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OBJECTIVE: The aim of the study was to evaluate fetal thymus size by sonography in diabetic pregnancies and its relationship with diabetes type. METHODS: In this prospectively designed case-control study, fetal thymus transverse diameter and circumference of the fetal thymus were measured. Also, TTR (thymic-thoracic ratio) was assessed in 288 healthy and 105 diabetic pregnancies. Patients were divided into subgroups as diet-controlled gestational diabetes (GDMA1, n = 40), insulin-dependent (GDMA2, n = 42), and pregestational diabetes mellitus (PGDM, n = 23). GDM was diagnosed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation with a 75 g oral glucose tolerance test. Measurements were compared to the healthy control group. Pairwise comparisons with Bonferroni correction determined which type of diabetes was independently associated with a small fetal thymus. RESULTS: All 3 maternal diabetes categories had smaller fetal thymus size than controls (p < 0.05). TTR were lowest in PGDM (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Gestational diabetes is associated with smaller fetal thymus size. Pregestational diabetes may be associated with a smaller fetal thymus compared to diet-controlled GDM. Also, the thymus size may be even smaller in those with poor blood glucose regulation.

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This article reviews the use of ultrasound in pregnancy pertinent to the emergency physician. The techniques for transabdominal and transvaginal studies are detailed including approaches to gestational dating. Diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy is reviewed focusing on the potential pitfalls: reliance on beta-human chorionic gonadotropin, pseudogestational sac, interstitial pregnancy, and heterotopic pregnancy. Techniques for the identification of placental issues and presenting parts during the second and third trimesters are reviewed. Ultrasound is a safe and effective tool for the experienced emergency physician and is integral to providing high-quality care to pregnant women.

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Background: Antenatal care is essential for all expectant mothers and assists in reducing maternal mortality rates thus addressing the Sustainable Development Goal 3. Obstetric ultrasound complements antenatal care and is used in pregnancy to identify and monitor high-risk pregnancies. However, disparities exist and in low- and middle-income countries, ultrasound services are not readily available. This contributes to maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality within these populations. Short ultrasound training programmes for midwives can be beneficial in alleviating some of the challenges experienced. Aim: The aim of this scoping review was to identify global ultrasound education programmes for midwives. Method: Articles containing suitable keywords were retrieved from databases suitable to nursing, education and ultrasound. Themes were developed based on the articles included in the review. Results: A total of 238 articles were identified, and after the duplicates and irrelevant studies were removed, 22 articles were included. Articles were analysed and discussed under the identified themes and categories. Conclusion: It is essential that sufficient training is provided to medical professionals performing obstetric ultrasound so that adequate and safe care is offered to expectant mothers. With the introduction of ultrasound in low-resource settings, the knowledge of safety and competencies required to operate the equipment necessitate adequate training. Developed programmes have been found to meet the demands of the ever-changing workforce and allow for midwives to perform focused obstetric ultrasound examinations. Contribution: This scoping review highlighted ultrasound training programmes for midwives and provided guidance on the development of future midwifery ultrasound training programmes.

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BACKGROUND: Obstetric ultrasound has become a routine part of antenatal care in many parts of the world including low income settings. However, there is a shortage of radiologists and sonographers to perform routine obstetric scans in many areas especially in the rural settings of low income countries, despite having equipment available to do this. As a result, Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) has been suggested to bridge this gap by training other health workers such as midwives to perform basic obstetric ultrasound as part of their clinical care. METHODS: It was a prospective cohort pilot study in which trained midwives in point of care obstetric ultrasound were followed up at 6 months post training to assess their knowledge retention. Eleven trained midwives were purposively selected and followed up for knowledge retention. These were trained for 6 weeks and were given a knowledge assessment immediately after training, then given an assessment at 6 months following training. Data was analyzed using SPSS. Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to compare assessments and perceived knowledge as well as Spearman correlation to test the relationship between the number of scans performed and exam assessments, knowledge and exam assessments, and number of scans and knowledge. RESULTS: There were eleven midwives, all female with an average age of 42.3 years. The mean exam score (out of 50) was 44.2 at the end of the training and 42.9 at 6-months follow up. The midwives demonstrated higher perceived knowledge at the end of the training when compared to the 6-months follow up. However, this perceived higher knowledge was not statistically significant when correlated with the exam scores either at the end of the training or at the follow up of 6 months. CONCLUSION: This pilot study has demonstrated that training midwives in point of care obstetric ultrasound can result into acceptable levels of knowledge retention that assist the midwives to apply this knowledge when making routine clinical decisions in relation to pregnant women.

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