[Delayed interval delivery in multiple pregnancy--case report and review of the literature]

The incidence of multiple pregnancies is increasing with concomitant increased risk in maternal and fetal complications. Premature rupture of membranes and consecutive premature delivery, especially that of immature babies with very low birth weight is accompanied by a high rate of perinatal morbidity and mortality.

This is a case report of a mother with twin pregnancy, who aborted the first fetus at 17 weeks and successfully delivered the second one at 29 weeks of gestation with an interval of 84 days following conservative treatment.

Review of the literature reports the possibilities of the management of delayed interval delivery.

The authors conclude that by the use of tocolysis, antepartum steroid-, and antibiotic prophylaxis the life-expectancy of the retained fetus can be improved.

After the birth of the first fetus delayed delivery in multiple pregnancies can be successful in selected cases. They advocate it only in well prepared perinatal centers for physically and psychologically balanced patients, who are well informed about the risks and benefits of this trial.