Use of methergine for the prevention of postoperative endometritis in non-elective cesarean section patients.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

Methergine increases constriction of uterine musculature which may facilitate sloughing of endometrial debris, close uterine vessels, and prevent post-cesarean endometritis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of methergine in preventing endometritis in patients undergoing non-elective cesarean section delivery.

METHODS:

Eighty patients undergoing non-elective cesarean section were enrolled in a prospective randomized clinical trial of methergine (41) versus no methergine (39) administration during the postpartum period. The hospital records were abstracted after discharge to compare the postpartum course.

RESULTS:

There were no significant demographic differences between the two groups. The women receiving methergine had a significant reduction in the rate of postoperative endometritis (10% vs. 36%, P < 0.005). In addition, the mean postoperative hemoglobin was significantly higher in the methergine treated group (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS:

The use of methergine postpartum in women undergoing non-elective cesarean sections significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative endometritis and blood loss.

• Authors: M F Dweck, C M Lynch, W N Spellacy
• Journal: Infectious diseases in obstetrics and gynecology (Infect Dis Obstet Gynecol) Vol. 8 Issue 3-4 Pg. 151-4 ( 2000) ISSN: 1064-7449 [Print] Egypt
• PMID: 10968597 (Publication Type: Clinical Trial, Journal Article, Randomized Controlled Trial)

Chemical References

• Hemoglobins
• Oxytocics
• Methylergonovine

Topics

• Adult
• Cesarean Section (adverse effects)
• Endometritis (prevention & control)
• Female
• Hemoglobins (analysis)
• Humans
• Methylergonovine (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Oxytocics (pharmacology, therapeutic use)
• Postoperative Care
• Postoperative Complications (prevention & control)
• Postpartum Hemorrhage (prevention & control)
• Postpartum Period
• Pregnancy
• Prospective Studies
• Puerperal Disorders (prevention & control)
• Treatment Outcome