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Preterm labor has not been eradicated by the introduction of the betamimetic agents. However, with the more effective agents, a marked prolongation of intrauterine existence has allowed further growth and development of small preterm fetuses. This has reduced morbidity and mortality significantly. Further work is necessary. Despite the capability of inhibiting labor with any of several drugs, a major factor in the improved survival of small preterm infants has been instant availability and access to the infant of a neonatologist. In most instances this requires transport to at least a secondary and in most cases to a tertiary care facility. With infants estimated to be under 1500 gm, tocolysis should be employed as an adjunct to transfer of the maternal-fetal unit to a tertiary care facility.
Preterm labor has not been eradicated by the introduction of the betamimetic agents. However, with the more effective agents, a marked prolongation of intrauterine existence has allowed further growth and development of small preterm fetuses. This has reduced morbidity and mortality significantly. Further work is necessary. Despite the capability of inhibiting labor with any of several drugs, a major factor in the improved survival of small preterm infants has been instant availability and access to the infant of a neonatologist. In most instances this requires transport to at least a secondary and in most cases to a tertiary care facility. With infants estimated to be under 1500 gm, tocolysis should be employed as an adjunct to transfer of the maternal-fetal unit to a tertiary care facility.