Repeat cerclage prolongs pregnancy in women with prolapsed membranes

Abstract

We evaluated repeat cerclage in women with prolapsed membranes. Twenty-two women with bulging membranes after primary cerclage were offered repeat cerclage; 11 chose a repeat cerclage and 11 chose bed rest. The median gestational age at delivery, birthweight and survival rates were significantly higher in the repeat cerclage group compared to the bed rest group (mean 26.8 weeks vs. 21.7 weeks, p= 0.04, mean birthweight 1180 g vs. 491 g, p= 0.01 odds ratio for survival 22.0, 95% CI, 2.1-236). Early repeat cerclage under antibiotic cover may be beneficial in women with bulging membranes after a prior failing cerclage attempt.