Preterm Prelabour Amniorrhexis

This is the definitive reference text on deliveries before 37 completed weeks of gestation associated with preterm prelabor amniorrhexis - the leading cause of neonatal death. It covers the incidence and outcome of preterm births, the risk factors for preterm prelabor amniorrhexis, and attempts at prediction and prevention. The book also describes a possible etiology for amniorrhexis in the link between ascending infection from the genital tract and labor related to the release of cytokines and prostaglandins. It evaluates non-invasive maternal and fetal assessment as well as amniocentesis and cordocentesis, and critically assesses antibiotics, corticosteroids, tocolytic agents, and other therapies in the management of pregnancies with amniorrhexis. The book is heavily referenced throughout and contains many illustrations and tables.