[Effects of prostaglandin E1 analogs on the cervix--observations with vaginal sonography]

In this study participated 17 patients, in whose pregnancies not viable malformations or intrauterine deaths were diagnosed. The termination of the pregnancies was done with PG-E-1 suppositories Gemeprost (Cergem) 1 mg. Collectively the patients received 3 Cergem suppositories applicated all 3 hours. Before beginning therapy and every 4-6 hours a vaginosonography was done. The cervical changes under the influence of Gemeprost were documented vaginosonographically. The measurements before Gemeprost treatment showed an average cervical length of 44.2 +/- 6.3 mm, a width of 29.5 +/- 1.7 mm and an internal os of 2.5 +/- 0.5 mm. The results of the second ultrasound showed a length of 30.6 +/- 4.1 mm, a width of 32.3 +/- 2.5 mm and an internal os of 7.0 +/- 3.0 mm. The last measurements (ca. 107 minutes before abortion) showed a remaining of cervical length of 15.2 +/- 4.5 mm, a width of 41.5 +/- 4.6 mm, an internal os of 19.2 +/- 4.1 mm and the amniotic membranes bulged into the cervical channel.