Phosphatidylglycerol determination in the amniotic fluid from a PAD placed over the vulva: a method for diagnosis of fetal lung maturity in cases of premature ruptured membranes.

Four hundred and forty seven pregnant women with ruptured membranes, were prospectively studied in order to assess the diagnostic capacity of Phosphatidylglycerol (PhG) determination in amniotic fluid recovered from vulval pads in the diagnosis of Hyaline Membrane Disease (HMD). The identification of PhG was performed using one dimensional silica gel thin layer chromatography. The sensitivity of PhG determination in the diagnosis of HMD in newborns of the total population was found to be 88.

Effects of orciprenaline on uterine contractility and maternal heart rate. A quantitative study.

Amniotic pressure and maternal heart rate were recorded continuously and simultaneously in 15 women in labor or prelabor. Orciprenaline (Alupent) was administered through an intravenous infusion pump at the rate of 10 and 20 mug/min. Uterine contractility and maternal and fetal heart rate were measured before its onset and during the infusion.