Late-second-trimester pregnancy termination with dilation and evacuation in critically ill women
Bowers, C.H.; Chervenak, J.L.; Chervenak, F.A.
Journal of Reproductive Medicine 34(11): 880-883
1989
ISSN/ISBN: 0024-7758 PMID: 2585388 Document Number: 338561
A review of 13 cases of second trimester termination at 20-24 weeks by dilation and evacuation after insertion of laminaria in women with critical illness is presented. The patients ranged in age from 17-41, parity from 0-5, and diagnoses covered a wide range, including hematologic, respiratory, vascular, gastrointestinal, cardiac systems, malignancies, autoimmune disorders and infections, as well as several with multiple problems, including intravenous drug use. Most were the result of late diagnosis or late presentation. Procedures were performed according to a standard protocol by 1 physician, from 1983- 1987, using iv meperidine and diazepam sedation and paracervical block, 12 after laminaria insertion. Amniotomy and evacuation with large ovum forceps were followed by oxytocin and sharp curettage. There were no complications in this series. The dilation and curettage method is preferable in such cases because the timing of the procedure can be planned for maximal use of facilities and staff, the patient is spared by unattended delivery, the length of the abortion process is minimal, and incidence of infection and retained placenta is lower. Need for lengthy analgesia and fluid monitoring is reduced, an advantage for many critically ill women. This approach is best done by a physician with specific experience, in a setting capable of managing severe complications.