Clinical Research Directory

Effects of High Flow Humidified Oxygen on Umbilical Artery Acid-base Balance in Cesarean Section Under Spinal Anesthesia

Spinal anesthesia is the most commonly used anesthetic technique for cesarean section in developed countries, but vasodilation and a decrease in systemic vascular resistance caused by sympathetic blockade result in hypotension in 7-74% of parturients. The fetus receives oxygen from the mother via uteroplacental blood flow, and because uteroplacental circulation during pregnancy has minimal autoregulation, uterine blood flow changes in proportion to maternal blood pressure. Therefore, a reduction in uterine blood flow due to maternal hypotension can lead to fetal hypoxia or acidosis and is associated with low Apgar scores after birth. Oxygen administration may offer potential benefits, such as improving maternal cerebral perfusion and preventing fetal ischemic injury, and thus low-flow oxygen via a conventional nasal cannula is commonly used. However, there are few studies evaluating the effects of high-flow oxygen administration on fetal well-being during cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. Low-flow oxygen delivery through a conventional nasal cannula, which is commonly used during cesarean section under spinal anesthesia, results in a fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO₂) of less than 40% due to dilution with ambient air. In contrast, OptiFlow THRIVE (Fisher and Paykel Healthcare, Panmure, Auckland, New Zealand) is a device capable of delivering high-flow oxygen through a nasal interface, allowing administration of 100% oxygen to the mother and potentially providing greater protection against fetal ischemic injury. Delivering non-humidified oxygen at flow rates above 10 L/min causes significant discomfort in awake patients, but OptiFlow THRIVE passes the gas through a heated humidification chamber immediately before delivery, enabling the administration of warmed and humidified oxygen even at high flow rates. Therefore, this study aims to compare high-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy initiated upon operating room admission with conventional low-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy during cesarean section under spinal anesthesia, assessing their effects on maternal hemodynamic parameters and, ultimately, on fetal acid-base status.

Health Outcomes in C-Section Infants With Fecal Microbiota Transplantation

The goal of this clinical trial is to investigate the differences in microbiota, height and weight between infants born by cesarean section and randomized to receive fecal microbiota transplant after birth. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Could micobiota transplant be used improve gut microbiota and prevent overweight or obesity. * Is the source of colonization a modifiable factor and can it be changed by using an early fecal microbiota transplant.

Ondansetron Lozenge Versus Intravenous for Prevention of Shivering in Cesarean Section

This study aims to compare the effect of ondansetron lozenge and intravenous for prevention of shivering in cesarean section (CS).

"Effect of Pre-Spinal Mindfulness-Based Breathing Exercise on Hemodynamic Response in Elective Cesarean Section"

Spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension is one of the most frequent and clinically significant complications of obstetric anesthesia, occurring in up to 50-80% of parturients undergoing elective cesarean section. Preoperative anxiety has been shown to potentiate hemodynamic instability through autonomic nervous system activation, thereby increasing susceptibility to spinal hypotension. This prospective, randomized, controlled trial aims to evaluate the effect of a standardized 5-minute mindfulness-based breathing exercise administered immediately prior to spinal anesthesia on the hemodynamic response in pregnant women scheduled for elective cesarean section. Eligible participants will be randomized in a 1:1 ratio into two parallel groups: the Mindfulness-Based Breathing Exercise Group and the Control Group receiving standard preoperative care. The breathing intervention consists of slow diaphragmatic breathing at a rate of approximately 6 breaths per minute (4-second inhalation through the nose, 6-second exhalation through the mouth), guided by a standardized script delivered by a trained anesthesiologist or nurse. Participants in the intervention group will be instructed to silently repeat the phrase "My body is relaxing as I exhale" with each exhalation, incorporating a mindfulness component. The primary outcome is the maximum decrease in systolic arterial pressure (SAP) within the first 10 minutes following spinal anesthesia induction. Secondary outcomes include preoperative state anxiety scores (STAI-5), early spinal hypotension incidence, heart rate changes, and vasopressor requirements. The study will be conducted at Atatürk University Faculty of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology and Reanimation, Erzurum, Turkey, in accordance with the Declaration of Helsinki and Good Clinical Practice guidelines.

Predicting Spinal Hypotension in Cesarean Section

This prospective observational study investigates the predictive value of anthropometric and hemodynamic indices for spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension (SAIH) during cesarean section. While spinal anesthesia is preferred for its rapid onset, SAIH remains a frequent complication risking maternal and fetal safety. The study enrolled parturients at Erciyes University, excluding those with hypertension or extreme weight/height. Preoperative measurements included BMI, waist circumference (WC), body roundness index (BRI), and modified shock index (MSI). Following standardized spinal anesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine (Harten's dosage), hemodynamic parameters and sensory block levels were monitored. This research aims to determine whether BRI and WC offer superior predictive utility compared with conventional markers such as BMI and MSI to enhance individualized risk assessment in obstetric anesthesia.

Intra-abdominal Pressure, Abdominal Circumference, and Spinal Block Level in Cesarean Section

Spinal anesthesia is commonly used for cesarean section and provides effective anesthesia with rapid onset. However, the spread of spinal anesthesia may vary among pregnant women due to physiological and anatomical changes during pregnancy. Increased intra-abdominal pressure and abdominal circumference may influence cerebrospinal fluid dynamics and affect the level of sensory block achieved after spinal anesthesia. This prospective observational study aims to evaluate the relationship between intra-abdominal pressure, abdominal circumference, and the maximum sensory block level following spinal anesthesia in pregnant women undergoing cesarean section. Intra-abdominal pressure and abdominal circumference will be measured before surgery, and sensory block levels and hemodynamic parameters will be assessed after spinal anesthesia. The findings of this study may help to better understand factors affecting spinal block spread in pregnant patients.

Investigation of the Role of Internal Jugular Vein Collapsibility Index in Predicting Spinal Anesthesia-Induced Hypotension in Preeclamptic Parturients

This prospective, single-center observational study aims to evaluate the predictive value of the internal jugular vein collapsibility index (IJVCI) for spinal anesthesia-associated hypotension in preeclamptic parturients (gestational age ≥28 weeks) undergoing cesarean delivery classified as Lucas category 3-4. Preoperative IJVCI will be measured using ultrasonography before spinal anesthesia during spontaneous and deep respiration. The incidence of hypotension within the first 20 minutes after spinal anesthesia will be recorded. The diagnostic performance of IJVCI in predicting hypotension will be analyzed.

Relationship Between the Severity of Sleep Deprivation in the First 48 Hours Postpartum, Breastfeeding Motivation, and Breastfeeding Success

The postpartum period is a critical time marked by significant physiological and psychosocial changes that can affect sleep, emotional well-being, and breastfeeding behaviors. Previous studies indicate that mode of delivery and sleep quality are closely associated with breastfeeding outcomes, with cesarean birth often linked to poorer sleep and lower breastfeeding success. Evidence also suggests that postpartum sleep disturbances are related to reduced breastfeeding self-efficacy, lower motivation, fatigue, depressive symptoms, and shorter breastfeeding duration. However, the literature lacks studies that evaluate insomnia severity, breastfeeding motivation, and breastfeeding success simultaneously-particularly during the first 48 hours after birth. This analytical study aims to assess insomnia severity, breastfeeding motivation, and breastfeeding success (LATCH) within the first 48 postpartum hours and to examine the relationships among these variables. Findings are expected to support early postpartum clinical interventions to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.

Evaluation of the Absence of Intraoperative Bladder Catheterization in Case of Planned Cesarean Section

The hypothesis of this trial is that the absence of systematic bladder catheterization in patients performing spontaneous urination in the hour preceding the planned cesarean section under spinal anesthesia would not lead to more bladder heterocatheterization for postpartum urinary retention (RUPP) in the 24 hours post-cesarean section than systematic intraoperative bladder catheterization up to 2 hours post-surgery.

Restrictive vs Liberal Intraoperative Fluid Strategy and Postoperative Outcomes After Elective Cesarean Section

Spinal anesthesia for elective cesarean section is frequently associated with hemodynamic instability and postoperative complications such as postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and delayed gastrointestinal recovery. Although intraoperative fluid administration is routinely used to prevent spinal-induced hypotension, the optimal fluid strategy remains unclear. Both restrictive and liberal fluid approaches may influence maternal hemodynamics and postoperative outcomes through different physiological mechanisms. This prospective, single-center, randomized controlled trial aims to compare restrictive (≤3 mL/kg/h) and liberal (\>3 mL/kg/h) intraoperative crystalloid fluid strategies in patients undergoing elective cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. The primary outcome is the incidence of PONV within the first 24 hours postoperatively. Secondary outcomes include postdural puncture headache (PDPH), time to first flatus, hypotension frequency, and vasopressor requirements.

Post-operative Cesarean Trial of Pain Control

This study plans to learn more about postoperative pain management after cesarean deliveries (C-sections). As a part of standard of care, the Children's Hospital Colorado's Colorado Fetal Care Center (CFCC) follows the standard Enhanced Recovery After Cesarean (ERAC) guidelines to manage pain following C-section delivery. In addition, the CFCC uses an FDA approved medical device called the ON-Q ® Pump, which continuously delivers local anesthetic medication to control pain in the area of your procedure. The local anesthetic used is bupivacaine, which is FDA approved for use to control local pain after C-sections. The CFCC has found a significant reduction in opioid use after adopting both of these procedures. The study aims to determine if the ERAC protocol or ON-Q ® Pump continuous infusion is responsible for lower opioid use by comparing bupivacaine (treatment) versus saline (placebo) groups.

Intrathecal MoRphine Versus Transabdominal Plane Block (TAP) Block for AnalGesic Management in Elective Caesarean Section

The goal of this randomized controlled clinical trial is to determine if low-dose intrathecal morphine is superior to a Transversus Abdominis Plane (TAP) block with ropivacaine and clonidine for postoperative analgesia in women aged 18 years or older undergoing elective cesarean section under neuraxial anesthesia. The main questions it aims to answer are: * Is intrathecal morphine more effective than TAP block in reducing postoperative somatic pain at rest? * Does intrathecal morphine differ from TAP block in terms of adverse events, pain during mobilization, visceral pain, rescue analgesic use, maternal satisfaction, and newborn wellbeing? Researchers will compare the intrathecal morphine (ITM) group to the TAP block (TB) group to see if ITM provides superior analgesia and improved secondary outcomes. Participants will: * Undergo spinal anesthesia with hyperbaric bupivacaine and sufentanil * add 30 μg intrathecal morphine (only ITM group) * receive bilateral ultrasound-guided TAP block with 20 ml ropivacaine 0.25% and 75 μg clonidine per side (only TB group) * receive standardized postoperative analgesia with paracetamol, ibuprofen, and tramadol as needed * be monitored postoperatively for pain (somatic and visceral, at rest and with movement), adverse events, mobilization, maternal satisfaction, and newborn outcomes at regular intervals for 24 hours This is a single-center, pilot, single-blind trial involving 100 participants (50 per group).

Virtual Reality Versus Intravenous Dexmedetomidine on Maternal Anxiety, Stress, Hemodynamics, and Neonatal Outcomes During Cesarean Section

This study aims to compare the efficacy of intravenous dexmedetomidine infusion versus virtual reality (VR) in reducing maternal anxiety, stress, and hemodynamic instability during cesarean section and their effects on neonatal outcome as respiration and heart rate.

Sensory Block Onset: Epidural vs Dural Puncture Epidural in Cesarean Section

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the onset of sensory block between epidural anesthesia and dural puncture epidural (DPE) in patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery. The study also aims to evaluate hemodynamic stability and procedure-related side effects associated with both techniques. The main questions it aims to answer are: 1. What is the difference in the onset of sensory block between epidural anesthesia and dural puncture epidural (DPE) in patients undergoing cesarean section? 2. Are there differences in hemodynamic stability between epidural anesthesia and DPE during surgery? 3. What procedure-related side effects occur with each anesthetic technique? Researchers will compare epidural anesthesia with dural puncture epidural (DPE) to determine which technique achieves a faster and more effective sensory block while maintaining maternal hemodynamic stability. Participants will: 1. Be randomly assigned to receive either epidural anesthesia or DPE anesthesia 2. Undergo elective cesarean delivery under regional anesthesia 3. Have sensory block onset, hemodynamic parameters, and adverse events monitored and recorded intraoperatively

Early General Anesthesia to Limit Experiences of Trauma During Cesarean Section-Pilot Study

Some patients who undergo cesarean section under spinal or epidural anesthesia can experience severe pain. Some patients who experience this kind of pain can experience symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after pregnancy. Currently, the two main options for treating this pain are general anesthesia (full medically induced unconsciousness) and using intravenous medications to reduce the pain and decrease anxiety. The EAGLET-CS Pilot is a pilot randomized trial that will test the feasibility of comparing the impact of these two options for preventing PTSD in a rigorous way for those patients who experience pain during their cesarean section after the baby is out.

Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine vs Epinephrine

Several studies have shown that adding dexmedetomidine or epinephrine to single-dose spinal analgesia preparations improves the length and/or speed of onset of the sensory block and post-operative pain management without increased negative side effects. To date, however, no study has compared adjunctive intrathecal dexmedetomidine to adjunctive intrathecal epinephrine in single-dose spinal analgesia. The purpose of this study is to determine if adjunctive intrathecal dexmedetomidine is non-inferior to adjunctive intrathecal epinephrine in providing better single-dose spinal analgesia during cesarean section.

Ultrasound Guided TAPB vs Surgical TAPB With Bupivacaine in Cesarean Section

The aim of this study is to compare Surgical Transversus abdominis plane block and Ultrasound guided transversus abdominis plane block (TAPB) as a postoperative analgesic regimen in female patients undergoing elective cesarean delivery.

Effect of Vitamin D Deficiency on the Frequency and Severity of Spinal Anesthesia-Induced Hypotension in Pregnant Women Undergoing Cesarean Section

Spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension remains a common and significant complication during cesarean sections, posing risks for both mother and fetus. Vitamin D deficiency, frequently observed in pregnant women, is associated with altered vascular function and potential hemodynamic instability. This prospective observational study aims to investigate whether vitamin D deficiency is associated with an increased incidence and severity of spinal anesthesia-induced hypotension in pregnant women undergoing elective cesarean delivery. Vitamin D levels will be measured preoperatively, and intraoperative hemodynamic parameters will be closely monitored. The findings could contribute to improved management strategies for pregnant patients at risk of severe hypotension.

The Effect of the Cesarean ERAS Protocol on Mother-Infant and Father-Infant Bonding: a Multicenter, Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial.

This is a multicenter, 1:1 parallel-group, randomized controlled trial designed to compare the effect of the Enhanced Recovery After Cesarean (ERAS) protocol versus standard perioperative care on mother-infant and father-infant bonding in women undergoing cesarean delivery. The study will initially be conducted as a single-center trial at Istanbul Okan University Hospital. Once adequate site preparation is completed, additional centers will be added to expand the study to a multicenter setting. Primary Outcome: The primary outcome is the total score on the Postpartum Bonding Questionnaire (PBQ) assessed on postpartum day 7, reflecting mother-infant bonding. Secondary Outcomes: Secondary outcomes include: Maternal/Parental Postnatal Attachment Scale (MIBS) score at 2 hours postpartum (mother) PBQ score at 24 hours postpartum (mother) PBQ score at day 4 postpartum (mother) PBQ score at day 7 postpartum (father-infant bonding) Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) scores for mothers at 2 hours and 7 days postpartum Time to initiation of breastfeeding Requirement for neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) admission Sample Size: The total multicenter target sample size is n=300, with 150 participants in the ERAS group and 150 in the standard care group. The initial single-center phase at Okan University Hospital will enroll a target of n=100 participants (50 per group). Randomization: Participants will be randomized using a block and stratified randomization approach based on parity (primiparous vs multiparous) and planned type of anesthesia. Blinding (Masking): Due to the nature of the intervention, care providers cannot be blinded to group assignment. However, outcome assessors and data analysts will remain blinded to treatment allocation to minimize bias. Study Timeline and Visits: Participants will be evaluated at multiple time points following cesarean delivery: 2 hours postpartum, 24 hours postpartum, day 4 postpartum, and day 7 postpartum. All primary and secondary outcomes will be collected at the specified time points. Significance and Rationale: The ERAS protocol for cesarean delivery is designed to optimize perioperative care, enhance recovery, and potentially improve early parent-infant bonding. While previous studies have focused on maternal recovery and clinical outcomes, evidence regarding the impact of ERAS on both mother-infant and father-infant bonding remains limited. This trial aims to provide high-quality evidence on whether ERAS implementation can improve early bonding experiences, maternal mental health, breastfeeding initiation, and neonatal outcomes compared with standard perioperative care. The findings may guide future clinical practice and contribute to optimizing family-centered care in cesarean deliveries. Key Features: Multicenter, randomized controlled design Parallel 1:1 allocation Stratified randomization by parity and anesthesia type Blinded outcome assessment and data analysis Multiple postpartum evaluation points Focus on psychosocial and clinical outcomes Expected Contributions: This study will provide comprehensive data on the feasibility and effectiveness of ERAS protocols in cesarean deliveries and their potential benefits for both maternal and paternal bonding with the newborn. The inclusion of both mother-infant and father-infant outcomes, as well as maternal mental health and breastfeeding indicators, ensures a holistic assessment of early family-centered outcomes.

Infant Microbiota Restoration With Maternal Microbes

The goal of this clinical trial is to test the ability of different bacterial products in restoring natural gut microbiota in C-section born infants. The main question it aims to answer is: Do maternally derived strains of bacteria perform better than commercially available probiotic strains in restoring the gut microbiota of C-section born infants? Researchers will compare the gut microbiota of treated infants to that of untreated C-section born infants and untreated vaginally born infants to see if the bacterial treatments cause the microbiota to resemble that of vaginally born infants. Participants will be given a bacterial product orally once daily for either one or four weeks and be asked to collect faecal, urine and saliva samples.

Effect of Preoperative Oral Carbohydrate Drink on ObsQoR-10 Score After Elective Cesarean Under Neuraxial Anesthesia

The goal of this clinical trial is to determine whether a preoperative oral carbohydrate-rich clear drink can improve recovery in women undergoing elective cesarean section under neuraxial anesthesia. The main outcomes it aims to answer are: Primary Outcome: Does the carbohydrate drink improve ObsQoR-10 scores at 24 and 48 hours postoperatively? Secondary Outcomes: Does it reduce patients' hunger, thirst, and anxiety levels? Researchers will compare patients receiving a 400 ml oral carbohydrate-rich clear drink 2 hours before surgery (Group A) to those receiving 400 ml distilled water (Group B), to assess differences in recovery and comfort. Participants will: Be randomized into two equal groups (n=50 each) using a computer-generated randomization table Receive standardized anesthesia and postoperative analgesia

ESPB vs Intrathecal Morphine for Assessements of Quality of Recovery After Cesarean Section

Cesarean section is a surgical procedure that involves significant pain, which is managed through a multimodal pharmacological approach.The primary objective of the study is to evaluate the quality of hospitalization after cesarean section using the QRo11 questionnaire in patients treated with a postoperative Erector Spinae Plane Block compared to those treated with intrathecal morphine.

Robson Ten-Group Classification Study of Cesarean Section Rates in Assiut Hospitals

Cesarean section (C-section) rates have increased worldwide, and Egypt is among the countries with the highest rates. In some hospitals, more than half of all births are done by cesarean delivery. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends using the "Robson Ten Group Classification System" to better understand and compare C-section rates. This study will use the Robson classification system to evaluate the rate of cesarean deliveries in two hospitals in Assiut, Egypt: Assiut University Hospital and Assiut General Hospital. The study will collect information from medical records of women who delivered by cesarean section between January and December 2026. The main goal is to identify which groups of women contribute most to the high C-section rate and to compare practices between the two hospitals. The study will also look at outcomes for both mothers and newborns. By doing this, we hope to provide useful information that can help improve obstetric care, reduce unnecessary cesarean deliveries, and improve health outcomes for mothers and babies in Egypt.

Transversalis Fascia Plane Block Versus Intrathecal Dexmedetomidine in Patients Undergoing Cesarean Section

This study aims to compare the analgesic efficacy of the transversalis fascia plane (TFP) block and intrathecal dexmedetomidine in patients undergoing cesarean section (CS).