The management of preterm premature rupture of the membranes near the limit of fetal viability

Am J Obstet Gynecol. 2009 Sep;201(3):230-40. doi: 10.1016/j.ajog.2009.06.049.

Abstract

Preterm premature rupture of the membranes near the limit of fetal viability is an uncommon complication of pregnancy, affecting approximately 4 in 1000 gravidas. However, maternal, fetal, and neonatal complications resulting from this condition are significant and include chorioamnionitis, pulmonary hypoplasia, restriction deformities, fetal loss, and complications of extreme prematurity among surviving infants. In this article, we review the literature regarding pregnancy outcomes after preterm premature rupture of the membranes near the limit of viability, and the data on traditional and nontraditional interventions to improve outcomes. An approach to patients who present with preterm premature rupture of the membranes near the limit of viability will be proposed.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Algorithms
  • Female
  • Fetal Death / epidemiology
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / epidemiology
  • Fetal Membranes, Premature Rupture / therapy*
  • Fetal Viability*
  • Gestational Age
  • Humans
  • Lung / pathology
  • Oligohydramnios / epidemiology
  • Pregnancy
  • Pregnancy Outcome
  • Pregnancy Trimester, Second
  • Prognosis
  • Recurrence
  • Risk Factors