[A proposed new interpretation and revised definition of perinatal mortality].

A proposed new interpretation and revised definition of perinatal mortality. Perinatal mortality rate is a commonly used index, which reflects the quality of obstetrical and neonatological care. Relying on critical remarks considered for his study, the author believes that a novel classification should be developed in order to redefine the term perinatal mortality and pregnancy-related losses. The author points out that intrauterine death during pregnancy cannot be associated with fatal incidents about birth, because the former precedes the latter. While regarding the cases of intrauterine death at late pregnancy as being important specific indicators, the author proposes excluding them from the cases covered by the term perinatal mortality. Furthermore, the author argues that all cases of neonatal death, that is, those at birth and those occurring in the first 28 days of life should be regarded as cases of perinatal mortality. It is reasonable to extend perinatal period this way, because due to a more advanced neonatological care, immature preterm babies may be lost 6 or even 27 days after birth. A novel interpretation of perinatal mortality, not including the cases of intrauterine death at late pregnancy, but including all cases of neonatal mortality makes perinatal mortality rate a more exact qualifier of obstetrical and neonatological care.