Source
Département de Gynécologie et d'Obstétrique, Hôpitaux Universitaires de Genève, Boulevard de la Cluse, 32, Geneva, Switzerland, CH-1205. olivier.irion@hcuge.ch
Abstract
BACKGROUND:
Suspected macrosomic fetuses are usually induced in order to reduce the risk of difficult operative delivery.
OBJECTIVES:
The objective of this review was to assess the effects of a policy of labour induction for suspected fetal macrosomia on method of delivery and maternal or perinatal morbidity.
SEARCH STRATEGY:
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group trials register and the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register.
SELECTION CRITERIA:
Randomised trials of induction of labour for suspected fetal macrosomia in non-diabetic women.
DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS:
Trial quality assessment and data extraction were done independently by two reviewers. Study authors were contacted for additional information.
MAIN RESULTS:
Two trials involving 313 women were included. Compared to expectant management, induction of labour for suspected macrosomia did not reduce the risk of caesarean section (odds ratio 0.85, 95% confidence interval 0.50 to 1.46) or instrumental delivery (odds ratio 0.98, 95% confidence interval 0.48 to 1.98). Perinatal morbidity was similar between groups.
REVIEWER'S CONCLUSIONS:
Induction of labour for suspected fetal macrosomia in non-diabetic women did not appear to alter the risk of maternal or neonatal morbidity.