Software System Reduces Cesarean Complications

A computerized method of providing consistent and objective evaluation of labor progress can confirm the need for a cesarean section for women demonstrating symptoms of dystocia (slow labor).

The Calm Curve software program uses basic pelvic exam data and contraction information obtained during labor. The patient's progress in labor (dilation and station vs time) is plotted along with the Calm Curve, with a representation of the mean and outer limits of a reference population under similar labor conditions. The comparisons are shown graphically and expressed in percentiles, giving an objective and reliable evaluation of labor progress. The calculations are updated at each exam and adjusted for changing labor conditions such as contraction frequency or epidural use. Calm Curve contributed to a safe fall in cesarean rates from 19.54-16.62% at 12 months, according to clinical studies involving some 11,000 first-time mothers in both the United States and Canada.

Another clinical situation in which the Calm Curve has reduced risk--involving the management of labor in women who have had a previous cesarean--is uterine rupture. Uterine rupture is a catastrophic complication with a reported incidence ranging from 0.2-1.5% in these women. In a retrospective analysis using the Calm Curve, abnormal labor progress was identified in 42% of cases of uterine rupture. This diagnosis was apparent, on average, five hours before the rupture, providing ample time for health care professionals to intervene and avoid this complication.

The Calm Curve is a product of LMS Medical Systems (Montreal, Canada). The system will be available through a seamless web offering, and medical personnel will be able to use the tool independently from, and irrespective of, any obstetrical or central hospital information system that may be in use.



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