Single extra-amniotic injection of prostaglandins in viscous gel to induce abortion.

A single extra-amniotic injection of prostaglandin (PG) E2 or F2alpha in a highly viscous gel was administered to 230 patients to induce abortion between 9 and 24 weeks gestation. PGE2 doses of 1-0, 1-5, 2-0 or 3-0 mg induced abortion within 24 hours in 30 per cent, 75 per cent, 76 per cent and 70 per cent of patients respectively. The incidence of gastrointestinal side-effects was dose dependent, being 20 per cent, 35 per cent, 45 per cent and 70 per cent in the respective groups. A 10-0 Pmg dose of PGF2alpha induced abortion within 24 hours in 66 per cent of patients and 45 per cent had gastrointestinal side-effects. Abortion was more often complete with PGE2 (76 per cent) than with PGF2alpha (36 per cent). Immediate withdrawal of the catheter following PG administration did not influence induction-abortion intervals or 24-hour abortion success rates. This technique significantly reduced individual patient care and minimized the potential risk of intrauterine sepsis associated with extra-amniotic techniques requiring repeated or continuous PG administration.