Perinatal Outcome in Patients with Preeclampsia

Abstract

Objectives: To describe perinatal outcome in patients with preeclampsia.

Design: Descriptive Hospital based study

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nishtar Medical College/Hospital Multan from September 2007 to September 2008.

Materials and Methods: Patients admitted through the outpatient department and labour ward with gestation age >20 weeks and diasystolic blood pressure of > 90mmHg on more than one occasion 6 hours apart and proteinuria > 300mg/24 hours or two mid stream or catheter specimens of urine with >++ proteins on reagent strip testing were included in the study. Besides detailed clinical history, complete blood count, renal function tests, liver function tests, coagulation screen and 24 hours urine protein were done. After the baseline obstetrical ultrasound, two weekly growth scans were done, growth charts were maintained along with umbilical artery Doppler studies, Patients were counseled for planned hospital delivery and time and mode of delivery was decided. Babies were managed by the Pediatricians and if needed shifted to neonatal intensive care unit. The babies were followed for 7 days after birth.

Results: 73 patients were managed during the study period. 22 patients had intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) 23 babies were born preterm, 13 preterm babies had IUGR and 10 out of these were admitted to neonatal intensive care unit. There were 5 deaths (4 still births 1 early neonatal death).

Conclusions: IUGR and preterm births are the most frequent perinatal complications in preeclamptic patients. Health education of masses and regular antenatal care can improve the pregnancy outcome