PLACENTA PREVIA

Abstract

One hundred and six patients with placenta previa seen at this institution between January 1, 1950, and December 31, 1969, were reviewed. The clinical course of these patients, the methods of diagnosis, and their management are discussed. There was one maternal death. Perinatal mortality was 37 per cent. The primary factors affecting perinatal survival are discussed. It is recommended that: (1) patients with uterine bleeding prior to fetal viability be managed expectantly when possibile; (2) all patients with viable fetuses be delivered by cesarean section without regard to the degree of placenta previa and; (3) patients being treated expectantly should have interval cesarean section when fetal maturity can be documented by gestational age, fetal size or physiologic studies.