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Abortion at 18-22 weeks by laminaria dilation and evacuation
D Schneider1, R Halperin, R Langer
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Assaf Harofeh Medical Center, Tel Aviv, Israel.
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|September 1, 1996
Summary
Late second-trimester abortions using laminaria dilation and evacuation are safe procedures. These abortions do not appear to negatively impact future pregnancy outcomes, offering a secure option for women.
Area of Science:
- Medical research
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Late second-trimester abortions (18-22 weeks) require careful consideration of potential complications.
- Evaluating the safety and long-term effects of abortion methods is crucial for patient care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess complications associated with laminaria dilation and evacuation for late second-trimester abortions.
- To determine the obstetric outcomes of subsequent pregnancies following this procedure.
Main Methods:
- Cervical dilation was achieved using repeated laminaria tent insertion.
- Evacuation was performed in an outpatient setting under general anesthesia.
- Subsequent pregnancy outcomes were monitored through patient follow-up examinations.
Main Results:
- 171 procedures were performed with 92% satisfactory cervical dilation.
- Complications were minimal, including one case of uterine atony and one instance of retained products requiring curettage.
- No cervical injury was detected in remote measurements; subsequent pregnancies resulted in term deliveries for most patients.
Conclusions:
- Laminaria dilation and evacuation is a safe method for late second-trimester abortion.
- The procedure is not associated with adverse outcomes in future pregnancies.