Role of extra amniotic rubber catheters in midtrimester pregnancy termination
Mishra, J.; Jha, R.K.
Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology of India 31(4): 575-578
1981
ISSN/ISBN: 0971-9202 PMID: 12311665 Document Number: 176326
The objective of the investigation was to test the efficacy of the simplest mechanical method of midtrimester pregnancy termination, i.e., extraamniotic rubber catheters without use of any drugs, because medical disorders complicating pregnancy were also included in the present series. The pregnancy was terminated in midtrimester in 200 patients by introducing autoclaved rubber catheter in extraamniotic space. This work was carried out in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Patna Medical College in Patna, India during the August 1978 to August 1979 period. Radiological examination of the abdomen and pelvis was done 10 minutes after introduction of catheters in 64 of the 200 cases. The abortion process was enhanced by oxytocin drip if there was delay in induction abortion interval. After completion of the abortion, the postabortal period was carefully observed for any complication. 55% of the patients aborted within 24-36 hours. 33% of the patients aborted within 24 hours. There was no definite correlation between period of gestation and induction abortion interval. The coiling of the catheter at the level of fundus resulted in abortion within 24 hours in 28 out of 32 cases. In sum, this is a safe, simple, and effective method of midtrimester pregnancy termination. This is the only method which can be used safely in medical disorders complicating pregnancy.