Less Blood Loss by Earlier Oxytocin Infusion in Cesarean Sections? A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Abstract Purpose The aim of our study was to evaluate the positive effect of starting an IV oxytocin infusion early before uterine incision on intraoperative blood loss. Methods A total of 101 women between 18–40 years who underwent a primary elective cesarean section (CS) were included in this randomized controlled trial. The patients were divided into two groups. In Group I (n=51), oxytocin infusion was administered immediately after incision of the visceral peritoneum during CS. In Group II (n=50), infusion was administered immediately after clamping the umbilical cord. The primary outcome was the mean volume of blood loss during CS. The secondary outcomes included the mean reduction in hemoglobin and hematocrit levels, need for additional uterotonics and hemostatic uterine sutures, blood transfusion, post-operative pain score, and additional surgical procedures. Results There were statistical significant differences either in the change of the hemoglobin concentration (1.27±0.75 vs.1.74±0.81; p<0.01) or in the change of hematocrit concentration (3.89±2.24 vs. 5.41±2.93; p<0.01). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly lower in Group I when compared to Group II (475.86±150.11 vs. 605.1±203.2; p<0.01). Conclusions Our findings suggest that the starting IV oxytocin infusion early before uterine incision reduces intraoperative blood loss. This could be effective to replace starting IV oxytocin infusion late after umbilical cord clamping or delivery of the placenta.