[Analysis of 122 twin deliveries with special reference to morbidity and mortality of the second twin].

122 consecutive twin deliveries between 1986-1992 were analysed retrospectively under special consideration of morbidity and mortality of the second twin. 13.9% of the twin deliveries occurred before the 33rd week of gestation. The cesarean section rate amounted to 49.2%, the first twin was delivered in 5.7%, the second twin in 27%, by vaginal operative methods. Perinatal mortality of the first twin was 3.3%, of the second twin 6.6% (p < 0.01); thus resulting in an overall twin mortality rate of 4.9%. The acidosis-rate of 16.4% in the second twin was significantly above the 9.0% in the first twin. The vaginal operative mode delivery especially contributed to the impaired outcome of the second twin. There was no correlation between the morbidity of the second twin and the time interval between the two deliveries.