Delayed delivery of second twin: a multicentre study of 35 cases.
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to conduct a statistical analysis to determine the outcome of conservative treatment after delivery of a first fetus in multiple pregnancy and thus define new prognostic factors.


METHODS
Multicentre retrospective study involving 12 centers over a 10-year period.


RESULTS
Twenty-eight twin pregnancies and seven triplet pregnancies which were managed conservatively. In twin pregnancies, 79% of the delayed-delivery fetuses survived; only 7% of the first delivered fetuses survived. The mean interval between deliveries was 47 days. No statistical difference was found concerning cerclage, antibiotic therapy, tocolysis and hospitalization. Earlier delivery of the first twin and premature rupture of membranes for the second twin were significantly related to a longer interval between deliveries.


CONCLUSIONS
Delayed delivery in multifetal pregnancies can be successful if there are no contraindications and these pregnancies are managed in a tertiary perinatal center. Publications limited to successful cases have undoubtedly introduced some bias in assessment.
Fayad
S
S
CHU de Nice, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique-Reproduction et Médecine Foetale Centre Femme-Mère-Enfant, Hôpital de l'Archet 2-CHU, 151, Rte de St.-Antoine de Ginestière, BP 3079, 06202 Nice, France.
Bongain
A
A
Holhfeld
P
P
Janky
E
E
Durand-Réville
M
M
Ejnes
L
L
Schaaps
J P
JP
Gillet
J Y
JY
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use; D023802:Cerclage, Cervical; D036861:Delivery, Obstetric; D005260:Female; D005322:Premature Rupture of Fetal Membranes; D005865:Gestational Age; D006760:Hospitalization; D006801:Humans; D011247:Pregnancy; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D013997:Time Factors; D015145:Tocolysis; D014310:Triplets; D014427:Twins
D000900:Anti-Bacterial Agents