Reduction of preeclampsia in multiple pregnancies by a dedicated monitoring protocol.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effect of a dedicated monitoring protocol on the incidence of pregnancy-induced hypertension disorders (preeclampsia, HELLP [hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, low platelets] syndrome, gestational hypertension) during a 5-year period in 417 women with multiple gestations.

METHODS: At the Department of Obstetrics and Fetomaternal Medicine, Vienna University, an outpatient care protocol for women with multiple pregnancies was established. Between March 1997 and February 2002, 379 twins and 38 triplets were followed up. Mean visits of dichorial and monochorial twins were nine and 11, respectively. Triplets were asked to at least 12 follow-up visits.

RESULTS: Any kind of pregnancy-associated hypertensive disorders necessitating cesarean delivery developed in eight women (seven with twins, one with triplets; 1.76%). Three cases of preeclampsia, three cases of HELLP syndrome, and two cases of pregnancy-induced hypertension were diagnosed. Perinatal outcome of all 17 newborns was excellent without any mortality and only minor morbidity. All mothers left the hospital in a fully recovered condition.

CONCLUSION: Because of our results we hypothesize that our monitoring protocol with frequent visits, continuous personal obstetric care, and timed delivery is effective in reduction of pregnancy-induced hypertension in multiple pregnancies.