Fetal Umbilical Cord Length and Associated Intrapatum Complications In A Tertiary Institution, Southeast Nigeria.

Context: Extremes of umbilical cords have been associated with antepartum and intrapartum complications. Few studies which have investigated both risk factors and outcomes associated with these conditions contain conflicting reports. Aims and Objectives: This study aims at documenting the length of the umbilical cord in babies born in Ebonyi State University Teaching Hospital (EBSUTH), as well as any association between umbilical cord length and fetal sex, number of fetuses, presenting part, cord accidents and certain intrapartum complications. Methodology: Prospective study of umbilical cords length of deliveries conducted in the department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of EBSUTH, Abakaliki, from 1st October, 2008 over a six months period was done. Analyses were done using EPI info. Results: A total of 588 consecutive deliveries met the inclusion criteria. The mean cord length was 57.87 +12.6 cm and ranged between 22cm and 124cm.The mean cord length for male babies were significantly more than the females (58.16cm vs 57.59 cm). Significant difference also existed in cord lengths for multiple deliveries and singletons. The mean umbilical cord length associated with loops was significantly higher than that of the study population 63.58cm vs 57.28cm. Shoulder dystocia, hand prolapse in a transverse lying fetus, abruptio placentae and prolonged second stage of labour had shorter cords while fetal distress, cord prolapse and mecunium stained liquor had longer cords when compared with the mean umbilical cord length of the study population. Conclusion: Umbilical cord length was positively associated with number of fetuses and sex of the babies, but not with FETAL presentations. Extremes of cord length could predispose to certain intrapartum complications. Keywords: Umbilical cord, Length, intrapartum complications