[Programmed labor. Can RDS be prevented even after amniotomy? (author's transl)].

In 30 cases of elective induction of labor amniotic fluid was collected at amniotomy and surfactant concentration was determined by surface tension measurements in the Wilhelmy-Balance. In two cases surfactant deficiency was detected. Dexamethasone was administered intravenously in these two cases. Surface tension measurements 12 hours after amniotomy predicted lung maturity. None of the children developped RDS. The chances of RDS prevention by intravenous corticoid administration after amniotomy and a delay of delivery in case of surfactant deficiency are discussed.