[Management of premature rupture of the membranes at term: how long to delay? Results of a prospective multicentric study in 713 cases].

OBJECTIVE

The aim of our study was to define he best delay for management of spontaneous rupture of the membranes at term.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a prospective multicentric study in western France defining 3 groups of expectancy (6, 12 and 24 hours) to assess obstetrical, neonatal and maternal outcomes.

RESULTS

We included 713 patients. There was no significant difference in neonatal and maternal morbidity between the 3 groups. The rate of cesarean section was statistically higher in the 6-hour group (12%). There was no statistical difference between 12 and 24 hours but the rate was lower in the 12-hour group (5.5 versus 7.9%).

CONCLUSION

Based on our findings and a review of the literature, we have decided that in cased of premature rupture of the membranes at term, a 12 hour delay is best. At most two prostaglandin maturations can be performed in unfavorable cervixes.