Perinatal deaths in twin pregnancy: a 22-year review

Changes in the management of 1120 twin pregnancies delivered in Tampere University Central Hospital during the years 1964-1985 were studied, together with changes in the pattern of perinatal deaths. Perinatal mortality decreased from 7.4% in 1964-68 to 3.5% in 1981-85. There were no significant changes in stillbirths. The decrease of perinatal mortality resulted from a reduction in early neonatal deaths, mainly those due to respiratory distress syndrome. Changes in obstetric management include earlier diagnosis by ultrasound, intrapartum monitoring, and an increase in cesarean section rate from 4% to 32%. There is still a need for a reduction in the number of very early preterm births, and for more effective intrauterine supervision of twin pregnancies.