DefinePK

Abstract

Objectives: To describe the fetal outcome in singleton pregnancies complicated with polyhydramnios from 28 to 36 weeks.Study design: Descriptive study.Place and duration of study: Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Combined Military Hospital, Lahore from July 2007 to July 2008.Patients and Methods: Fifty pregnant women diagnosed with polyhydramnios were included. They were evaluated on ultrasonography, amniotic fluid index greater than 25cm or a maximum vertical pocket of liquor greater than 8cm confirmed the diagnosis of polyhydramnios and associated congenital abnormality.Results: A total of 50 patients were included in the study. Mean gestational age was 34.2±1.4. Thirty patients (60%) had vaginal delivery while cesarean section was done in 20 patients (40%). Forty patients (80%) had live birth whereas 4 (8%) and 6 (12%) patients had stillbirth and IUD respectively. Weight of 56% of the babies was less than 2.5kg and 44% of the babies more than or equal to 2.5kg with mean weight of 2.4±0.3kg. Normal babies were seen in 40 patients (80%) while 10 babies (20%) had congenital abnormalities. Out of 40 live born babies, 18 (45%) did not require resuscitation while 22 (55%) were shifted to NICU. Two babies (9%) expired in nursery and 20 babies (91%) were discharged healthy.Conclusion: Polyhydramnios carries a higher incidence of adverse perinatal outcomes, such as fetal distress during labor, low Apgar scores, NICU transfer, fetal death, congenital anomalies and neonatal death from the study population.