[Involvement of betamimetics in increased survival during fetal surgery in sheep].
BACKGROUND
Fetal surgery is a therapeutic reality. Available only in a few centres worldwide. Experimental animal models are needed to continue research in this field. The target problem being the control of preterm labour.


OBJECTIVE
To find a tocolytic drug regimen in order to reduce fetal loss.


METHODS
Pregnant sheep were divided randomly in two groups. At a gestation age of seventy days sheep were operated in order to create a myelomeningocel model in the fetus. Follow-up with weekly amniocentesis guided by ultrasound scan. Group A (n = 6) were treated pre and post-op with indomethacine and with magnesium sulphate during surgery and in the following 24 hours. Group B (n = 8) were treated with diclofenac pre-op, and post-op with ritodrine until the end of pregnancy.


RESULTS
Group A we find a survival rate 50% (n = 3) being 87% (n = 7) in group B. Fetal weight being higher in group A. We find an increase heart rate and a weight loss in both the fetus and mother in group B. Urea and creatinine amniotic fluid levels were increase in group B.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of ritodrine as a tocolytic agent reduces fetal loss significantly. Ritodrine increases fetal and mother cardiac output causing weight loss.
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists / Q000494:pharmacology*; D000818:Animals; D005260:Female; D005315:Fetal Diseases / Q000601:surgery*; D023421:Models, Animal; D011247:Pregnancy; D012312:Ritodrine / Q000494:pharmacology; D012756:Sheep; D015149:Tocolytic Agents / Q000494:pharmacology*
D000318:Adrenergic beta-Agonists; D015149:Tocolytic Agents; D012312:Ritodrine
Implicación de los betamiméticos en el aumento de la supervivencia tras procedimientos quirúrgicos en el feto del cordero común.