Research from UPMC Obstetrics and Gynecology Faculty Highlights New Approaches in Drug Monitoring, Infection Prevention, and Public Education

Recent studies from UPMC and the University of Pittsburgh Department of Obstetrics Gynecology, and Reproductive Services experts shed light on three areas of advancement: improving the detection of opioid exposure in newborns, raising awareness of asymptomatic bacteriuria among older women, and exploring environmentally conscious practices in urologic procedures. Each study offers unique insights, ranging from enhanced lab techniques to sustainable infection control methods, demonstrating how evidence-based approaches can drive meaningful change across diverse medical disciplines.

An Approach for Improving the Detection and Quantitation of Buprenorphine and Its Metabolites in Maternal and Neonatal Hair

This study developed a reproducible method using LC-MS/MS to detect buprenorphine (BUP) and its metabolites in maternal and neonatal hair samples. The optimized protocol involved shaking unwashed hair with acetonitrile at 37°C for 24 hours, enhancing recovery rates of BUP and norbuprenorphine (NBUP). In samples from five mother-infant pairs undergoing opioid use disorder treatment, BUP was the primary analyte in maternal hair, while NBUP-glucuronide predominated in neonatal hair. This method offers a reliable tool for assessing fetal exposure to BUP during pregnancy.

Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences faculty included on the research team were Elizabeth E. Krans, MD, and Steve Caritis, MD.

Online Search Strategies and Results From a Crowdsourced Survey on Asymptomatic Bacteriuria

A national survey of 518 women aged 50 and older revealed that only 8.7% were aware of asymptomatic bacteriuria (ASB). Despite this low awareness, 77.6% expressed concern about potential progression to infection. The study also found that most online resources were targeted at medical professionals, with patient-facing information often being of poor quality. These findings highlight the need for accessible, high-quality educational materials to improve public understanding and support antibiotic stewardship.

Division of Urogynecology & Reconstructive Pelvic Surgery faculty included on the research team were Megan S. Bradley, MD, Ashley Murillo, MD, and Halina Zyczynski, MD.

Green Cystoscopy: Does Minimizing the Use of Drapes Increase Infection Rates?

This noninferiority study assessed whether reducing drape usage during minor cystoscopy procedures affects postoperative urinary tract infection (UTI) rates. Comparing 240 patients before and after implementing a "green" draping protocol (eliminating top drapes, leg drapes, and gowns), the study found similar UTI rates between groups (7.5% vs. 5.8%). Additionally, the green protocol led to cost savings of approximately $1,403.92 and reduced waste by 165 pounds. The findings suggest that environmentally friendly draping practices can be adopted without compromising patient safety.

 Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences faculty included on the research team were Erin E. Mowers, MD (fellow), Isabel Janmey, MD, Leslie A. Meyn, PhD, Noe Woods, MD, and Pamela Moalli, MD, PhD.