[Abortion following prenatal diagnosis of genetic defects]

71 abortions after prenatal diagnosis of genetic defects have been performed between 1974 and 1983. Mean duration of pregnancy was 21 weeks, mean hospital stay 10 days. In 28 per cent an intraamnial prostaglandin induction was done, which was successful in 85 per cent. Extraamnial prostaglandin application was combined with oxytocin in 51 per cent, which was followed by abortion in 51 per cent within 26 hours. Primary hysterectomy was performed in 4 per cent and rupture of the membranes combined with oxytocin infusion in 6 per cent. Complication rate overall was 20 per cent. In 6 per cent the following complications have been observed: 1 perforation with lesion of intestine, 1 cervical rupture with hemorrhage, 1 colpaporrhexis, 1 shock. Pelveoperitonitis and rupture of the symphysis pubis in one case each (3 per cent). Other complications, like fever, hemorrhages and thrombophlebitis have been observed in 11 per cent. Midtrimester abortion after prenatal diagnosis of genetic defects should be done only in experienced clinics. Special importance in prophylaxis of complications of abortion has chorion biopsy to predate prenatal diagnosis in the 6th till 12th gestational week.