Tocolytic therapy in preterm PROM

Clin Obstet Gynecol. 1998 Dec;41(4):842-8. doi: 10.1097/00003081-199812000-00008.

Abstract

Preterm premature rupture of the membranes nearly always leads to preterm labor and delivery. Preterm delivery accounts for most of the morbidity attributable to PPROM. Antibiotic and corticosteroid treatment may modify the outcome of pregnancy after PPROM. The extent of morbidities attributable to PPROM also justifies consideration of the use of tocolysis, at least for a limited period of time (48 hours) after preterm amniorrhexis. When begun after the onset of contractions following PPROM, tocolysis generally does not prolong the latency period, although some prolongation may occur before 28 weeks gestational age. Prophylactic tocolysis begun before the onset of labor increases the likelihood of delaying the onset of labor for 1-2 days, but not beyond. Aggressive long-term tocolysis may increase the maternal risk of chorioamnionitis and endometritis. None of the reviewed randomized studies demonstrated a significant neonatal risk. None of these studies showed an improvement in neonatal outcome, although they have not tested the combination of tocolysis and corticosteroid use with appropriate controls. The hypothesis that PROM remote from term should be managed with 1-2 days of prophylactic tocolysis and corticosteroids to enhance fetal pulmonary maturity is attractive, yet it remains inadequately evaluated.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents / therapeutic use
  • Delivery, Obstetric / methods
  • Drug Interactions
  • Female
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / complications
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / drug therapy*
  • Humans
  • Morbidity
  • Obstetric Labor, Premature / etiology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Steroids
  • Tocolytic Agents / adverse effects
  • Tocolytic Agents / therapeutic use*

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents
  • Anti-Inflammatory Agents
  • Steroids
  • Tocolytic Agents