Shanthi Sivakumar1, Nalina. S2, Rukkayal Fathima3, Rekha Radha4
BACKGROUND
To compare the efficacy and side effect profile of vaginal misoprostol versus misoprostol and isosorbide mononitrate in enhancing cervical ripening in second trimester pregnancy termination.
METHODS
It is a random clinical trial done in 100 patients for mid trimester termination of pregnancy (between 12 and 24 weeks of gestational age). They were divided into two groups:
Group A
Combination of 400 mcg of misoprostol and 40 mg of ISMN placed intravaginally. Repeat doses included combination of 400 mcg of misoprostol and 20 mg of ISMN every 4 hours for maximum 4 doses.
Group B
400 mcg of misoprostol placed intravaginally every 4 hours for maximum 4 doses for termination. In both the above-mentioned groups, T. mifepristone 600 mg was given orally 36-48 hrs. prior to termination.
RESULTS
The mean induction abortion interval was significantly less (7 hrs. 36 mins) in Group A compared with group B (9 hrs. 55 min). There was no statistical significant difference in the amount of mean dose used in both groups. The complete abortion rate within 48 hrs. in Group A was 94%, which shows no statistical significance when compared with Group B complete abortion rates (80%). However, it is interpreted that on adding ISMN, the number of complete abortion rates are higher. There was no failure of abortion in both the groups. The side effects such as pain abdomen and fever were less in Group A (38%) when compared to Group B (78%).
CONCLUSION
Vaginally administered ISMN seems to be safe and effective method in second trimester pregnancy termination. There is a reduction in hospital stay, manpower, economy spent on patient, and a sense of wellbeing from the patient also.
