Clinical Features and their Associations with Umbilical Cord Gas Abnormalities

Abstract Objective We seek to identify risk factors associated with abnormal umbilical artery cord gas (UACG). Study Design Secondary analysis of the multi-center Consortium for Safe Labor dataset. This study included singleton, term deliveries with UACG available. Abnormal UACG was defined as pH ≤ 7.0 or base excess > 12 mmol/L. Odds ratios calculated using a multivariable logistic regression to determine clinical factors associated with abnormal UACG. Result 18 589 patients met inclusion criteria, with approximately 2% having an abnormal UACG. Those with prior Cesarean delivery (OR 1.49, 95% CI 1.15–1.93), maternal diabetes (OR 1.67, 95% CI 1.06–2.64), magnesium sulfate use (OR 1.81, 95% CI 1.25–2.60), current Cesarean delivery (OR 2.56, CI 2.06–3.19), pre-eclampsia/HELLP syndrome (OR 2.80, 95% CI 1.79–4.36), and placental abruption (OR 4.81, 95% CI 3.35–6.91) had increased odds of having abnormal UACG at delivery compared to those without. Conclusion Patients with certain conditions may be at increased likelihood of adverse outcomes.