Authors: Giovanni Zanconato Elena Piazzola Elisa Caloi Carlotta Iacovella Roberta Ruffo Massimo Franchi
Publish Date: 2007/05/31
Volume: 276, Issue: 6, Pages: 619-623
Abstract
A total of 59 stillbirth cases observed between January 2000 and June 2006 were retrospectively studied WHO definition for stillbirth was adopted as the inclusion criterion Clinical files fetomaternal laboratory data fetoplacental pathology findings as well as delivery mode and circumstances were all systematically reviewedThe 59 observed cases correspond to an incidence of 98 stillbirths/year which considering the institutional delivery rate correspond to 54 cases per 1000 births Frequent relevant conditions associated with stillbirth were intrauterine growth restriction 152 congenital fetal anomalies 135 various maternal diseases 210 no cause of fetal demise could be found in 10/59 170 cases which were classified as unexplained Most deliveries were successfully induced with prostaglandins except 11 cases 190 which required a Csection due to severe maternal conditions associated with the fetal lossThorough investigation of each individual stillbirth case by means of an integrated study protocol along with the Pathologist’s close collaboration allows identification of a likely cause in the majority of cases Better knowledge of unexpected fetal loss is the premise for better parental counselling and for prevention of recurrences
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