Cervical dilatation by Lamicel--studies on the mechanism of action

Lamicel is a synthetic hydrophilic polymer tent which produces cervical softening and dilatation when inserted into the endocervical canal. To investigate the mechanism of action of Lamicel, the intrauterine pressure and levels of 6-keto-prostaglandin F1 alpha, 13-14-dihydro-15-keto-prostaglandin F2 alpha, oestradiol and progesterone in plasma and amniotic fluid were measured in patients undergoing second trimester abortion. There was no significant change in any of the measured hormones during a 2-h treatment with Lamicel, but uterine activity increased significantly for 10 min after insertion, then settled spontaneously to below pre-treatment levels. Peripheral plasma levels of magnesium sulphate measured in patients undergoing first trimester abortion were not significantly raised after insertion of Lamicel. Light microscopic examination of cervical specimens, obtained at hysterectomy from patients pre-treated with Lamicel for 24 h, revealed minimum increase in vascularity, mast cell population and ground substance mucopolysaccharides.