2ND-TRIMESTER AND EARLY 3RD-TRIMESTER PREGNANCY TERMINATION BY EXTRAAMNIOTIC BALLOON AND INTRACERVICAL PGE(2)

Objective: The aim of the study was to investigate the, efficacy and s afety of an alternative modality using extra-amniotic balloon and intr acervical prostaglandin (PG) E-2, for termination of second and early third trimester pregnancies. Method: Thirty-three pregnant women sched uled for legal termination of pregnancy at 15-32 weeks' gestation were included in the study. Each case received extra-amniotic balloon cont aining 500-800 mi normal saline and two PGE, tablets inserted into the cervical canal. Results: All 33 patients achieved a successful termin ation. The mean induction-to-abortion interval was 12.85 h. There was no significant difference in induction-to-abortion interval between se cond trimester group and third trimester group. However, the mean dura tion of balloon distention was longer in the second trimester group. T here were no severe complications. Conclusion: The combined use of ext ra-amniotic balloon and intracervical PGE, tablets is effective, safe and convenient for termination of second and early third trimester pre gnancy. (C) 1998 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics .