Guías de práctica clínica para la prevención, detección temprana y tratamiento de las complicaciones del embarazo, parto o puerperio: Introducción y metodología

Background: These Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPG) for the prevention, early detection and treatment of complications during pregnancy, delivery and post-partum period were developed by the alliance between the Universidad Nacional de Colombia, Universidad de Antioquia, Pontificia Universidad Javeriana, and Centre for Research in Health Technologies Assessment (CINETS) in response to the call in 2010 by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection and Colciencias for the development of CPGs in priority healthcare areas. Materials and Methods: The development team was created pursuant to the Health Studies and Research Center (CEIS) Methodology Guide for CPG Development. The team then defined the topics, the scope, the objectives and the questions to be answered by the CPG. A systematic search was conducted of CPGs for the selected topics, giving priority to the option of adapting instead of developing a "de novo" guideline, depending on the methodological quality of the guidelines found. A systematic review of the literature was conducted in order to answer orphan questions. The recommendations and evidence levels were expressed in accordance with the SIGN system. Patient participation and that of the various stakeholders was encouraged. Results: Six CPGs were adapted to answer the questions of the topics included in the developed CPG. The topic on toxoplasmosis required the development of "de novo" recommendations. Conclusions: This CPG was prepared using systematic procedures and the best evidence available. It is expected to help improve pregnancy care and reduce maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.